If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish that bursts with a symphony of flavors, this Picadillo Recipe will become your new favorite go-to. With savory ground beef mingling effortlessly with sweet raisins, tangy olives, and bright aromatics, every bite offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes. Whether you serve it over fluffy rice or cauliflower rice, this recipe brings a homey warmth perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. I can’t wait to share how delightfully simple and satisfying this classic dish is!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white pot filled with cooked ground meat mixed with bright green whole olives and small chunks of red bell peppers, all combined in a brown, slightly saucy mixture with visible bits of onion and a bay leaf in the center; a wooden spoon with a long handle is resting inside the pot, slightly lifted, showing the texture of the meat. The pot sits on a white marbled surface with a yellow and white striped cloth partially visible on one side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Picadillo Recipe calls for a handful of straightforward ingredients that come together perfectly to create a flavorful, colorful dish. Each ingredient plays an essential role, from the tender ground beef that provides heartiness to the golden raisins that offer unexpected sweetness and depth.

2 lb. lean ground beef: The rich, meaty base that makes the dish filling and tasty.
1 small onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and texture to the mix.
1 medium red or green bell pepper, diced: Brings freshness and a slight crunch for balance.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Delivers a warm, aromatic punch that enhances the flavor.
1 14-ounce can tomato sauce: The saucy component that ties all ingredients together with tangy richness.
¾ teaspoon ground cumin: Imparts a gentle earthiness essential in Latin dishes.
½ teaspoon dried oregano: Adds subtle herbal complexity to deepen the profile.
1 bay leaf: Infuses a delicate background aroma during simmering.
½ cup green olives, pitted and drained + 2 tablespoons juice from jar: Contribute a briny pop that contrasts beautifully with sweetness.
2 tablespoons capers, drained: Provides a salty, tangy bite enhancing overall brightness.
½ cup golden raisins: A surprise ingredient that brings natural sweetness and chewiness.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Delivers a gentle heat and spice without overpowering.
⅛ to ½ teaspoon fine salt (to taste): Enhances the flavors—adjust carefully depending on preference.
Optional for serving: cooked rice or steamed cauliflower rice, chopped fresh cilantro, lime wedges, fried plantains or plantain chips, and roasted green beans for added flair.

How to Make Picadillo Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Ground Beef and Vegetables

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, diced bell pepper, and onions to the pan. If you’re using a nonstick or enamel-coated cast iron skillet, you can skip extra oil—otherwise, add 2 to 3 teaspoons of olive oil to prevent sticking. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spatula, until the onions soften and the beef is thoroughly browned, about 6 to 8 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1 to 2 minutes to release its fragrant aroma. This step builds the savory foundation of your Picadillo Recipe.

Step 2: Add the Tomato Sauce and Spices

Next, stir in the canned tomato sauce along with cumin, oregano, and the bay leaf. These aromatic ingredients begin marrying together, giving depth and warmth. The tomato sauce adds the perfect balance of acidity and richness that envelops the beef and vegetables.

Step 3: Mix in Olives, Capers, and Raisins

Now it’s time for some exciting flavor contrasts—add the green olives with their juice, capers, and golden raisins right to the skillet. These ingredients create the signature Picadillo combination of salty, tangy, and sweet notes that make this dish absolutely irresistible.

Step 4: Simmer Until Thickened

Lower the heat and bring your mixture to a gentle simmer, uncovered, for about 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally as the sauce thickens and all the flavors meld together beautifully. This simmering step is crucial to developing the iconic Picadillo taste and texture.

Step 5: Final Touches and Seasoning

Before serving, remove the bay leaf. Taste the dish and add salt carefully according to your preference since the olives and capers already contribute saltiness. The Picadillo Recipe is now ready for plating or storing to enjoy later!

How to Serve Picadillo Recipe

A white bowl holds a colorful dish with three main parts. On the bottom left is a small bed of white rice with two lime wedges placed on top. To the right of the rice is a layer of ground meat cooked with olives, small red bell pepper pieces, and garnished with fresh cilantro leaves. Above this is a neat row of cooked green beans with a vibrant green color. At the top right of the bowl are several round, golden-yellow fried plantain slices, arranged in a small stack. A spoon with a brown wooden handle rests inside the bowl on the right side. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface with some leafy green herbs scattered around and a yellow and white striped cloth nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top to add a bright and herbal note that elevates the dish’s visual appeal and flavor. Lime wedges served on the side also bring a zesty freshness that complements the hearty meat and sweet components wonderfully.

Side Dishes

Whether you choose classic cooked white rice or light, nutritious steamed cauliflower rice, both work fabulously to soak up the luscious sauce. For a crunchy and sweet contrast, fried plantains or plantain chips are excellent additions. Roasted green beans or a simple salad add a fresh, crisp element to balance the richness of the Picadillo Recipe.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider scooping this flavorful Picadillo into warm corn or flour tortillas for an impromptu taco night. You can also stuff it into bell peppers and bake for a vibrant presentation. Serving it over mashed potatoes or pairing it with roasted sweet potatoes can bring a cozy twist to the experience, making this recipe endlessly versatile.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Picadillo Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in your refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.

Freezing

If you want to stock your freezer with ready-to-go meals, freeze Picadillo in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some headspace to allow for expansion. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for the best texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it covered in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating without drying out the mixture. Adding a splash of water or broth can restore moisture if needed.

FAQs

What is Picadillo?

Picadillo is a traditional Latin American dish made from ground meat cooked with tomatoes, spices, olives, and sometimes sweet elements like raisins. It’s known for its comforting, sweet-savory flavor profile and is often served over rice or used as a filling in various dishes.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative. Keep in mind the cooking time might be slightly less, and the dish may taste a bit milder, so seasoning adjustments might be beneficial.

Is the Picadillo Recipe spicy?

The traditional recipe is not very spicy, focusing more on aromatic spices and balanced flavors. If you enjoy heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or chopped jalapeños to customize it to your taste.

Can Picadillo be made vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles, lentils, or finely chopped mushrooms to create a vegetarian version that still captures the essence of the original Picadillo Recipe.

What are the best side dishes to pair with Picadillo?

Classic options include white rice, black beans, fried plantains, or a crisp green salad. Cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables are great low-carb sides that complement the rich meat and sauce beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Picadillo Recipe is a true celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create a dish that’s packed with heart and history. It’s easy enough for weeknight dinners but special enough to impress family and friends. Give it a try and discover how this vibrant, soulful recipe can quickly become a cherished staple in your kitchen!

Picadillo Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make Picadillo Recipe