Name: Mexican Picadillo: Discover This Flavorful Recipe Today!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon oil; ½ medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound ground beef (80/20 preferred); 2 medium potatoes, diced small; 1 ½ cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 bay leaf; ¾ teaspoon salt (or to taste); ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ cup water or beef broth; 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional)

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Introduction to Mexican Picadillo

Ah, Mexican Picadillo! This scrumptious dish warms up my kitchen and scents the air, drawing everyone to gather around the table. I know just how crazy life gets, especially for a busy mom trying to juggle it all. Trust me, though. Mexican Picadillo is the answer for when you want hearty fare but don’t want to spend forever in the kitchen. It’s hearty ground beef and potato with spices that calm the palate and leave your loved ones raving. Let’s dive into this flavory recipe that’s sure to be a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Picadillo

Mexican Picadillo is the ultimate convenience on busy nights. It takes very little time to get together, approximately 40 minutes from start to finish and is what the doctor ordered for people who want ‘comfort food’ without wanting to go through all of the rigors. The hearty combination of ground beef with tender potatoes produces a hearty dish that literally warms one’s heart as well as soul. What’s more, each forkful is just bursting with such delicious flavors that your family will rave and ask for more.

Ingredients for Mexican Picadillo

Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating a delightful Mexican Picadillo. Here’s what you’ll need:

Oil: For frying, I prefer vegetable or olive oil. They enhance the dish without overshadowing the flavors.
Onion: A half medium onion, diced, adds sweetness and depth to the base of your Picadillo.
Garlic: Two cloves of minced garlic bring an aromatic layer that elevates the entire dish.
Ground Beef: I like using an 80/20 blend for just the right amount of fat for moisture and flavor.
Potatoes: Two small, diced potatoes give a hearty texture and absorb the spices beautifully.
Diced Tomatoes: Whether you use canned or fresh, they provide the saucy component to your Picadillo.
Ground Cumin: This warm spice infuses the dish with an earthy note. It’s essential in Mexican cooking.
Dried Oregano: Adding a pinch of this herb brings a hint of brightness that balances the beef.
Bay Leaf: One bay leaf adds an aromatic depth that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Salt and Black Pepper: Basic yet vital seasonings. Adjust them to your taste to make it just right.
Water or Beef Broth: Use broth for richer flavor. The liquid helps cook the potatoes until they’re tender.
Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro as a garnish adds a burst of color and freshness.

Feel free to tweak any ingredient according to your family’s preferences. You’ll find the exact quantities all at the bottom of the article, handy for printing!

Mexican Picadillo – Hearty, Savory & Bursting with Bold Flavor!

How to Make Mexican Picadillo

Ready to embrace the deliciousness of Mexican Picadillo? Here’s a step-by-step guide that’ll help you create this mouthwatering dish with ease. Trust me, once you start cooking, the tantalizing aromas will have everyone eagerly waiting to dig in!

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Begin by heating a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. I recommend using vegetable or olive oil, as they impart great flavor without overpowering the dish. Giving the oil a minute to warm up ensures that it’s ready to fry those delicious aromatics you’ll be adding next.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Once the oil is hot, toss in your diced onion. Sauté it for about 3–4 minutes, until soft and translucent. Then, add in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds. Don’t rush this step! Cooking the onions and garlic helps release their flavors, setting a fragrant base for your Mexican Picadillo.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Next, it’s time to add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks, ensuring it gets nice and brown. This should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess grease afterward, don’t hesitate to drain it! You want just enough fat to keep things moist without making it greasy.

Step 4: Add in the Diced Tomatoes and Spices

Now comes the fun part! Stir in the diced tomatoes, along with your cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix it thoroughly to blend the spices and give the beef a zesty, hearty flavor. Feel free to experiment with spices—perhaps a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky twist!

Step 5: Incorporate the Potatoes

Add in your diced potatoes and give them a good stir to coat them with the flavorful mixture. Ensuring they are evenly coated means that each potato will absorb the spices, making them tender and flavorful by the end of the cooking process.

Step 6: Pour the Liquid

Next, pour in either water or beef broth just until the potatoes are barely covered. Using beef broth enhances the richness of the dish, making every bite more satisfying. This step is crucial as it helps the potatoes cook to perfection!

Step 7: Simmer to Perfection

Lower the heat, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes. This gentle cooking allows the potatoes to become fork-tender while soaking up all those robust flavors. Stir occasionally to keep things from sticking and to ensure even cooking.

Step 8: Finish and Garnish

Finally, once the potatoes are tender, remove the bay leaf. Adjust salt and pepper to taste—this is where you can make it just right for your family. Garnish with fresh cilantro for that pop of color and a hint of freshness that says “dinner is served!” Remember, presentation matters, and it makes the meal even more enjoyable!

Tips for Success

Always taste as you go! Adjust seasoning to suit your family’s palate.
For faster prep, peel and dice your potatoes ahead of time.
Don’t skip the aromatics; they lay the foundation for your dish’s flavor.
If you love heat, add chopped jalapeños when browning the beef.
Store leftovers in a sealed container for easy reheating on busy days.

Equipment Needed

Large Skillet: A heavy-bottomed pan works best for even cooking.
Wooden Spoon: Perfect for breaking up the beef and stirring flavors.
Cutting Board: A sturdy board for chopping your ingredients.
Sharp Knife: A good knife makes dicing onions and potatoes a breeze.
Lid: To cover the skillet for simmering the Picadillo.

Variations for Mexican Picadillo

Turkey Picadillo: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a healthier twist that still delivers on flavor.
Vegetarian Version: Use a mix of chopped mushrooms, lentils, and black beans as a protein-rich replacement.
Spicy Picadillo: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick that spice lovers will adore.
Regional Twist: Experiment with adding olives or raisins for a sweet-savory flavor, common in some regions of Mexico.
Sweet Potato Addition: Substitute or add sweet potatoes for a nutritious alternative that complements the spices nicely.

Serving Suggestions with Mexican Picadillo

Serve with fluffy rice to soak up the delicious flavors.
Pile onto warm corn tortillas for mouthwatering tacos.
A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy touch that balances the spices.
Pair with a refreshing margarita or a fruity agua fresca.
Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for a vibrant finish.

FAQs about Mexican Picadillo

What is Mexican Picadillo?

Mexican Picadillo is a savory dish featuring ground beef, diced potatoes, and a mix of spices, creating a hearty and comforting meal that warms the soul.

Can I make Mexican Picadillo ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare Picadillo in advance, and it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

What can I substitute for ground beef?

If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or a vegetarian mix of mushrooms and lentils works wonderfully, allowing you to cater to various dietary preferences.

How do I store leftovers of Mexican Picadillo?

To keep your Picadillo fresh, place leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge. You can also freeze it in portions for a convenient meal later on.

What sides pair well with Mexican Picadillo?

Pairing it with fluffy rice or warm tortillas makes for a delightful meal. You can also serve it with a salad or some grilled veggies for a balanced plate.

Final Thoughts

Cooking Mexican Picadillo is like wrapping your family in a fuzzy blanket of flavor and comfort. Each ingredient dances together to create a dish that not only nourishes but also invites conversation and laughter around the table. The joy in serving homemade meals is immeasurable, especially when you see those satisfied smiles. So, whether you’re making this for a busy weeknight or a special gathering, let the aromas and flavors transport you to a place of warmth and connection. I promise, once you share this dish, it will turn into a cherished recipe in your home!