Mexican Picadillo

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Juicy ground beef, tender potatoes, and simmered tomatoes come together in this hearty and comforting Mexican Picadillo. This dish is the ultimate definition of a budget-friendly, flavor-packed family meal. Every bite delivers a combination of savory meatiness, soft vegetables, and a touch of spice that warms you from the inside out.

Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this one-pan wonder is deeply satisfying and takes minimal effort to prepare. Whether you’re new to Latin cooking or just craving something deliciously homemade, this dish will become a staple in your rotation.

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Why You’ll Love This Mexican Picadillo

• Quick and easy to make with simple ingredients
• Feeds a crowd and is great for leftovers
• Bold, comforting flavors in every bite
• Great for meal prep or weeknight dinners
• Customizable with veggies or heat level

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What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

Go for lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) to keep the dish from being overly greasy, but still full of flavor. If you prefer extra richness, regular ground beef works too—just drain off the excess fat after browning. Want a lighter version? Ground turkey or chicken will do just fine with the same seasoning base.

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Ingredients for the Mexican Picadillo

Mexican Picadillo is a rustic and flexible recipe. Here’s why each component matters:

• Ground Beef – The heart of the dish. Choose lean for less grease, or regular for extra flavor.
• Potatoes – They absorb the seasonings and become deliciously tender.
• Onion – Adds sweet depth and forms the aromatic base.
• Garlic – A punch of boldness that enhances the beef.
• Tomatoes (canned or fresh) – Bring acidity and body to the mix.
• Tomato Sauce – Adds richness and ties the ingredients together.
• Cumin – Earthy and warm, essential to that classic picadillo taste.
• Chili Powder – For a gentle heat and smoky flavor.
• Bay Leaf – Provides subtle aroma while simmering.
• Salt & Pepper – To balance and highlight every flavor.
• Cilantro (optional) – A fresh finishing touch.

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How To Make the Mexican Picadillo

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, draining any excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Season and Add Potatoes

Sprinkle in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the beef evenly. Add diced potatoes and mix well.

Step 4: Simmer With Tomatoes

Pour in the diced tomatoes (and juice), tomato sauce, and toss in a bay leaf. Stir to combine. Lower heat, cover the skillet, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and sauce thickens.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove bay leaf and sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top if using. Serve hot with rice, tortillas, or even as taco filling.

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How to Store and Serve This Mexican Picadillo

This recipe feeds 4 to 6 people generously. Serve it hot, straight from the skillet with a side of warm tortillas or fluffy white rice.

Leftovers? Even better the next day. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just thaw and reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.

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What to Serve With Mexican Picadillo?

Warm Flour Tortillas

Perfect for scooping or turning the picadillo into tacos.

Mexican Rice

A flavorful bed that soaks up all the savory sauce.

Refried Beans

Creamy and classic—they balance the texture beautifully.

Pickled Jalapeños

Add a tangy heat to every bite.

Fried Plantains

A touch of sweetness to contrast the bold, spicy flavors.

Cabbage Slaw

Crunchy and refreshing, a nice textural balance.

Avocado Slices or Guacamole

Cool, creamy, and the perfect match to warm spices.

Cornbread Muffins

Southwestern fusion that just works!

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Want More Dinner Ideas?

If you’re loving this Mexican Picadillo, check out these other cozy and satisfying meals:

• Try the Cheddar Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole for another hearty classic.
• This Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is perfect when you need comfort in a bowl.
• Don’t miss Garlic Butter Meatballs with Velvety Parmesan Penne for a creamy meatball twist.
• Serve up Easy Vegetable Beef Soup when you’re craving spoonfuls of warmth.
• And for a Mexican-inspired snack, check out the Air Fryer Taquitos for crispy bites of joy.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you keep it classic or add your own twist with veggies or heat? I love hearing how these family favorites become yours too.

Explore more delicious, feel-good meals and everyday cooking inspiration at NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest.

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