As the sun sets, the kitchen fills with a warm, inviting aroma that instantly transports me to bustling Mexican streets, where the sizzle of ground beef meets the comforting softness of potatoes. This One-Pan Mexican Picadillo not only captures that essence, but it also brings a delightful blend of flavors and textures right to your table. With just a few simple ingredients, this easy dinner saves you time without sacrificing satisfaction, making it a perfect choice for both busy weeknights and laid-back Sundays. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, proving that wholesome home-cooked meals don’t have to break the bank! Curious about how to create this cozy dish that delights family and friends alike? Let’s dive in and discover the magic of Mexican Picadillo together! Why is Mexican Picadillo a Must-Try? Hearty Comfort: This one-pan Mexican Picadillo is the perfect comforting meal that makes you feel wrapped in warmth with each bite. Effortless Preparation: With simple steps, it’s ideal for any cooking skill level, so anyone can whip it up. Flavor Explosion: The rich blend of spices like cumin and chili powder delivers a sweet and savory balance that’s simply delectable. Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, in tacos, or even with warm bread – the flexibility of this dish suits any preference! Budget-Friendly: Featuring affordable ingredients, you can enjoy homemade goodness without stretching your wallet. If you’re looking for another comforting dish, check out my incredibly satisfying Mexican Cornbread Casserole. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering, this Picadillo is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table. Mexican Picadillo Ingredients For the Base • Ground Beef – Choose lean beef to minimize grease and keep the dish lighter. • Potatoes – Opt for waxy varieties like Yukon Gold for tender, delicious chunks. • Tomatoes – Fresh or canned brings brightness and depth to the sauce. • Onion – Sautéing this aromatic starts building a flavorful foundation. • Garlic – Two cloves enhance the dish’s traditional kick and aroma. • Bell Pepper (optional) – Adds sweetness and a crunchy texture for contrast. For the Sauce • Tomato Sauce or Paste – Creates a thicker, stew-like consistency to enrich flavor. • Cumin and Chili Powder – Infuses warm, earthy Mexican flavors that define Picadillo. • Salt & Pepper – Essential for balancing and elevating all the flavors. For Garnish • Fresh Cilantro (optional) – Adds a bright, fresh touch for beautiful presentation. This Mexican Picadillo is not only a delightful dish but also a fantastic one-pan meal that brings comfort and joy to your family. Enjoy cooking! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mexican Picadillo Step 1: Heat the Oil Begin by adding a tablespoon of olive oil to a large skillet over medium heat. Allow the oil to shimmer, indicating it’s hot enough for cooking. This step will create a flavorful base for your Mexican Picadillo, which shines through in the aromatic vegetables to come. Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics Once the oil is hot, add one diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and soft. Then, stir in two minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. This process fills the kitchen with inviting aromas and lays the groundwork for a rich flavor profile. Step 3: Brown the Beef Add one pound of ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the meat is browned and no longer pink. This step is crucial for developing the savory taste of your Mexican Picadillo, so be sure to drain any excess fat after browning. Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Spices Next, stir in one can of diced tomatoes (or fresh chopped), along with a bit of tomato sauce, diced bell pepper (if using), a teaspoon of cumin, a teaspoon of chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Combine everything well and let it simmer on medium-low for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Step 5: Add the Potatoes Toss in two medium-sized, diced Yukon Gold potatoes, ensuring they are evenly distributed within the mixture. Pour in about a cup of water or broth to give the dish a comforting stew-like consistency. Stir everything together, making sure the potatoes are well-coated in the savory sauce. Step 6: Simmer Until Tender Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the Mexican Picadillo to simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. This slow cooking method ensures that the flavors continue to deepen while the potatoes absorb all the deliciousness of the spices. Step 7: Adjust Seasoning and Serve Once the potatoes are tender, taste the Picadillo and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or spices if desired. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving. This Mexican Picadillo is best enjoyed hot, so serve it immediately over rice, in tortillas, or alongside crusty bread. How to Store and Freeze Mexican Picadillo Fridge: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps your Mexican Picadillo fresh and delicious for quick meals. Freezer: Freeze in a sturdy, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to label it for easy identification later! Thawing: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop or microwave. This keeps the flavors intact and ensures even heating. Room Temperature: Avoid leaving out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage and maintain food safety. Mexican Picadillo Variations Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own, as each variation can bring its own delightful twist! Ground Turkey: Substitute lean ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter twist that’s just as flavorful. The texture will still remain hearty and satisfying. Chorizo Kick: For a spicy version, use spicy chorizo instead of ground beef. This variation adds a rich, smoky flavor profile that elevates the entire dish. Sweet Peas: Toss in some sweet peas for added sweetness and color. They cook quickly and blend harmoniously with the flavors of the picadillo. Vegetable Medley: Swap out the bell peppers and add diced carrots or zucchini instead. This is a great way to sneak in additional veggies while keeping your dish vibrant and nutritious. Quinoa Base: For a gluten-free and protein-packed option, serve your picadillo over cooked quinoa instead of rice. This twist enhances the dish’s health benefits without sacrificing taste. Aromatic Herbs: Add fresh oregano or thyme to the mix for an aromatic touch that brings out new dimensions of flavor. These herbs can transport your Mexican Picadillo to a herbal haven! Spicy Heat: If you like it spicy, incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. The heat can balance beautifully with the sweetness of your potatoes. Savory Tomato Paste: For a richer sauce, double the amount of tomato paste. It thickens the dish and promotes a deeper, more robust flavor—perfect for dipping crusty bread, or if you’re trying out my delightful Mexican Cornbread Casserole, this would be a fantastic side! Make Ahead Options These Mexican Picadillo preparations are perfect for those busy weeknights! You can chop and keep the onions, garlic, and even the bell peppers ready in an airtight container up to 3 days in advance to save time. Additionally, feel free to brown the ground beef ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. To maintain quality, store the diced potatoes in a bowl of water to prevent browning, then drain before adding. When you’re ready to dig in, simply follow the cooking instructions, starting from Step 4, and you’ll have a delicious Mexican Picadillo with minimal effort! Expert Tips for Mexican Picadillo Evenly Diced Potatoes: Make sure to dice the potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking and to achieve that perfect tenderness throughout the dish. Brown the Beef Well: Don’t rush this step! Properly browning the ground beef not only adds depth of flavor but also enhances the overall richness of your Mexican Picadillo. Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving! Feel free to tweak the spices and seasoning to suit your palate—this dish celebrates your personal touch! Add a Kick: For those who enjoy spice, incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne can elevate your Picadillo to another level of deliciousness! Garnish for Freshness: Don’t skip the fresh cilantro! A sprinkle on top not only brightens the dish visually but also adds a fresh burst of flavor to your Mexican Picadillo. What to Serve with One-Pan Mexican Picadillo? As the rich flavors of your Mexican Picadillo tantalize your palate, consider these delightful pairings that elevate your meal experience. Fluffy White Rice: This classic staple soaks up the savory sauce, providing a comforting base that complements the hearty dish. Warm Tortillas: Soft, warm tortillas are perfect for scooping up the Picadillo, allowing for a delightful hand-held eating experience that’s perfect for casual gatherings. Fresh Salsa: A vibrant, chunky salsa adds a refreshing zing, contrasting the warm, robust flavors of the Picadillo, enhancing each bite. Creamy Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado slices paired with crisp greens create a refreshing balance, bringing coolness and texture against the hearty meat. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, sweet corn offers a lovely crunch and natural sweetness, rounding out the savory elements of this flavorful dish. Treat yourself to a glass of chilled horchata for a sweet, creamy drink that complements the spices in the Picadillo beautifully, or serve alongside warm churros for a satisfying dessert that rounds off your meal with a sweet touch. Mexican Picadillo Recipe FAQs What type of ground beef should I use for Mexican Picadillo? Absolutely! I recommend using lean ground beef for this recipe to minimize excess grease. Look for cuts labeled 90% lean or higher, which will provide a savory base without overwhelming the dish with fat. How should I store leftover Mexican Picadillo? You can refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Be sure to allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it, as this helps maintain freshness and prevents condensation inside the container. Can I freeze Mexican Picadillo, and if so, how? Yes, you can freeze this delightful dish! To do so, place the cooled Picadillo in a sturdy, freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Label it with the date, and it can stay frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. What should I do if my potatoes are undercooked after simmering? Not to worry! If you find your potatoes are still firm after 20 minutes of simmering, simply cover the skillet again and continue cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes. Check them periodically by piercing with a fork until they reach the desired tenderness. If necessary, you can add a splash more water or broth to keep the dish moist. Are there any dietary considerations for Mexican Picadillo? Absolutely! If you have specific dietary needs, feel free to substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Additionally, ensure you check labels for any allergies when using canned tomatoes or tomato products, which may contain allergens. If you’re sharing this meal with pets, remember that onions and garlic are harmful to them, so keep those parts away from their portions. What’s the best way to tell when the garlic and onions are properly cooked? Great question! When sautéing, the onions should become translucent after about 5 minutes. The garlic will become fragrant after only a minute—be careful not to let it brown too much, as that can lead to bitterness in the dish. Trust your senses; the inviting aroma is a sure sign you’re on the right track! Savor Homemade Mexican Picadillo - Easy One-Pan Delight Delight in hearty Mexican Picadillo, a comforting one-pan dish that combines ground beef, potatoes, and spices for a budget-friendly meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: MexicanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base1 lb Ground Beef Choose lean beef to minimize grease.2 Potatoes Opt for Yukon Gold for tender chunks.1 can Diced Tomatoes Fresh or canned for brightness.1 Onion Diced.2 Garlic Cloves Minced.1 Bell Pepper Optional, adds sweetness.For the Sauce1 cup Tomato Sauce Creates a thicker consistency.1 tsp Cumin For warm flavors.1 tsp Chili Powder For a flavor kick.to taste Salt & Pepper Essential for flavor balance.For Garnishto taste Fresh Cilantro Optional, for garnish. Equipment Large skillet Method Cooking StepsHeat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.Sauté one diced onion for about 5 minutes until translucent, then add two minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute.Add one pound of ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook for about 7-10 minutes until browned, draining excess fat.Stir in one can of diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced bell pepper (if using), cumin, and chili powder, then let it simmer for about 5 minutes.Add two diced Yukon Gold potatoes and pour in about a cup of water or broth; stir well.Cover and reduce heat to low, allowing to simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.Adjust seasoning if necessary and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 3IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 15mg NotesEnsure potatoes are evenly diced for uniform cooking. Brown the beef thoroughly for enhanced flavor. Adjust spices to personal taste, and consider adding jalapeños for added heat if desired. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
