Mexican Picadillo

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting meal that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico right to your kitchen, then you’ve got to try this Mexican Picadillo. This dish is a family favorite in my home, and it’s easy to see why! With hearty ground beef, tender potatoes, and a kick of spice from jalapeños, it’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Plus, it pairs beautifully with rice or tortillas—making it a versatile option for any occasion.

I love how this Mexican Picadillo brings everyone together around the table. It’s not just about the food; it’s about sharing moments with loved ones over a delicious meal. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or a festive celebration, this recipe will surely make your heart and stomach happy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes of cooking, you can whip up this dish without much fuss.
• Family-friendly: The mild heat from the peppers makes it suitable for all ages while still being packed with flavor.
• Make-ahead convenience: This dish tastes even better the next day! Perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have at home or your family’s preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to create this delicious meal. You’ll find everything you need in your pantry or local grocery store!

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 ounces yellow potatoes (about 3-4 small), diced
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 1 jalapeno pepper, chopped
• 1 serrano pepper, chopped (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 large tomatoes, chopped
• 3/4 cup beef stock
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon Mexican oregano
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

• Cooked rice or warmed tortillas
• Sliced peppers
• Chili flakes
• Fresh lime juice
• Hot sauce

Variations

One of the best things about Mexican Picadillo is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these tasty variations:

• Swap the protein: Instead of ground beef, try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some carrots or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
• Make it vegan: Substitute ground beef with lentils or chickpeas and use vegetable stock instead of beef stock.
• Spice it up: If you’re looking for more heat, add additional jalapeños or even some diced chipotle peppers.

How to Make Mexican Picadillo

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and jalapeño (and serrano, if using). Cook them down for about 5 minutes until they soften. This step is important because it builds a flavor base for our dish!

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Next, stir in the garlic along with the ground beef. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks for about 5 minutes until nicely browned. Don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked through; it will finish cooking later!

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

Now it’s time to stir in those vibrant tomatoes along with the beef stock and spices (paprika, oregano, cumin). Reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer together. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Simmer Away

Let your picadillo simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes. This is when those potatoes become perfectly tender while soaking up all that delicious broth.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Finally, serve your hearty Mexican Picadillo over cooked rice or alongside warm tortillas. Don’t forget to top it with extra sliced peppers, spicy chili flakes, fresh lime juice, and your favorite hot sauce! Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish!

This recipe is sure to become a cherished part of your weeknight rotation—enjoy making memories around your table!

Pro Tips for Making Mexican Picadillo

Making Mexican picadillo is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few simple tips. Here are some ways to elevate your dish and make it truly special!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh tomatoes, peppers, and herbs will bring vibrant flavors that canned or dried ingredients simply can’t match. The freshness enhances the overall taste of the picadillo.

• Adjust the spice level: If you love heat, feel free to add more jalapeños or serrano peppers. On the other hand, if you’re serving guests with varying spice tolerances, consider setting some aside before adding extra peppers.

• Let it rest: After cooking, allow the picadillo to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the flavors meld together, resulting in a richer taste.

• Experiment with seasoning: While this recipe provides a solid foundation, don’t hesitate to adjust spices like cumin or paprika to suit your palate. A pinch of cinnamon can also add a unique warmth to the dish!

• Make it ahead of time: Picadillo tastes even better the next day! Prepare it a day in advance and let the flavors develop overnight in the fridge. Just reheat gently before serving.

How to Serve Mexican Picadillo

Mexican picadillo is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways that cater to your preferences and those of your guests. Here are some ideas to help you present this hearty dish beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of picadillo.
• Sour cream or yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or plant-based yogurt can provide a creamy contrast to the spicy elements.
• Sliced avocado: Adding sliced avocado not only enhances presentation but also brings a creamy texture that balances out the spices.

Side Dishes

• Spanish rice: Fluffy Spanish rice seasoned with tomato and spices makes an excellent base for your picadillo, soaking up all those delicious juices.
• Corn tortillas: Warmed corn tortillas are perfect for scooping up picadillo. They add an authentic touch and are great for making tacos!
• Refried beans: Creamy refried beans offer protein and richness, making them a comforting side that pairs well with any Mexican meal.
• Grilled vegetables: Colorful grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or corn can provide a fresh contrast and additional nutrients alongside your hearty picadillo.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create a deliciously satisfying meal that will impress everyone at your table! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mexican Picadillo is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week, saving you time on busy days. Here’s how to store and reheat it for maximum freshness.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the picadillo to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the picadillo into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, use within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen picadillo overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through (about 10-15 minutes).
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

If you have any questions while preparing this scrumptious dish, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries about Mexican Picadillo that might help.

Can I make Mexican Picadillo with ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef in this Mexican Picadillo recipe. Just keep an eye on cooking times as turkey may cook a bit differently.

What sides pair well with Mexican Picadillo?

For a delightful meal, serve your Mexican Picadillo over rice or alongside warm tortillas. Freshly sliced peppers and a squeeze of lime add a wonderful zing!

How do I spice up my Mexican Picadillo?

To enhance the flavor of your Mexican Picadillo, consider adding more spices like cayenne pepper or using different types of peppers. A dash of chipotle powder can also give it a smoky kick!

What makes this recipe special?

This Mexican Picadillo offers a comforting mix of flavors and textures—ground beef melds perfectly with tender potatoes and zesty spices. It’s an easy dish that brings warmth to any table.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this hearty Mexican Picadillo! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with vibrant flavors that bring everyone together. Whether you’re enjoying it with family or friends, I’m sure it’ll leave a lasting impression. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your own twist on this beloved dish!