Picadillo Recipe is a flavorful and comforting Latin American ground beef dish that brings together savory and sweet elements in one hearty pan. This easy one-skillet recipe is popular in countries like Cuba, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and the Philippines, with each culture adding its own twist.

Our version is simple, rich in flavor, and uses pantry staples like ground beef, tomato sauce, green olives, and warm spices. Serve it over white rice, stuff it into tacos, or use it in empanadas!

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Why You’ll Love This Picadillo Recipe

1. Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes using one skillet.
2. Versatile: Great with rice, in tacos, stuffed peppers, or empanadas.
3. Family-Friendly: Balanced flavors loved by kids and adults.
4. Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
5. Meal Prep Hero: Tastes even better the next day.

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Ingredients Picadillo Recipe

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1/3 cup green olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup raisins (optional, adds subtle sweetness)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh chopped cilantro (optional garnish)
• Cooked white rice, for serving

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Instructions Picadillo Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Simmer with Flavor
Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Step 4: Add Olives and Raisins
Stir in green olives and raisins (if using). Cover and simmer for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot over rice or stuff into taco shells, tortillas, or empanadas. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

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Notes

• Cuban-style Picadillo often includes raisins and capers.
• Mexican Picadillo may include potatoes and carrots.
• Make it spicier with diced jalapeños or hot sauce.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for 1 month.

Whether you’re craving something hearty, fast, and full of flavor or looking for a delicious new way to use ground beef, Picadillo is a must-try. Its mix of sweet and savory, combined with its versatility, makes it a go-to for weeknight dinners.

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