Mexican Picadillo Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with authentic flavors and comforting warmth, Mexican Picadillo is the answer. This vibrant, homey recipe combines tender ground beef, soft yellow potatoes, and a lively blend of peppers and spices, all simmered together in a rich tomato and beef stock sauce. Mexican Picadillo offers a perfect balance of savory and spicy with just the right touch of earthiness from cumin and paprika, making it a beloved staple in Mexican kitchens and a fantastic meal to share with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to making Mexican Picadillo so irresistible. Each component plays a crucial role: potatoes give body and creaminess, peppers bring heat and brightness, while the beef and spices create that deep, savory soul.

• Olive oil: Helps soften vegetables and provides a subtle fruity base flavor.
• Yellow potatoes: Add a creamy texture that soaks up all those delicious spices and juices.
• Yellow onion: Offers sweetness and depth when cooked down.
• Jalapeno pepper: Adds a fresh, medium heat for brightness.
• Serrano pepper (optional): For an extra spicy kick if you like it hot.
• Garlic cloves: Infuse the dish with savory warmth and fragrance.
• Ground beef: The hearty protein base that carries all other flavors.
• Large tomatoes: Bring acidity and a fresh, juicy component.
• Beef stock: Deepens the savory notes and helps tenderize potatoes.
• Paprika: Adds smoky sweetness and vibrant color.
• Mexican oregano: Lends an authentic herbal earthiness.
• Cumin: Gives a warm, nutty spice that defines the flavor profile.
• Salt and pepper: Essential to balance and enhance every ingredient.
• For serving: Choose cooked rice or warmed tortillas, along with sliced peppers, chili flakes, fresh lime juice, and your favorite hot sauce to personalize each bite.

How to Make Mexican Picadillo

Step 1: Cook the Vegetables

Start by heating olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Toss in the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and jalapeno (and serrano if using). Let them cook for about 5 minutes until everything becomes tender and begins to soften. This step is key because it helps build the base flavors and soft texture that will complement the meat perfectly.

Step 2: Add the Meat

Next, stir in the chopped garlic cloves and the ground beef. Break up the beef with a wooden spoon so it browns evenly and mixes thoroughly with the softened vegetables. Cook for about 5 minutes until the meat loses its pink color but don’t worry if it isn’t completely cooked through at this stage — it will finish cooking later with the tomatoes and stock.

Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients and Simmer

Now the magic happens! Stir in the chopped tomatoes, beef stock, paprika, Mexican oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Lower the heat to let everything gently simmer. This allows the potatoes to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully, soaking into every bite. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the meat is cooked, and the sauce thickens into a rich, aromatic finish.

How to Serve Mexican Picadillo

Garnishes

Adding fresh and zesty garnishes really elevates Mexican Picadillo. A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the dish, while chili flakes and sliced peppers bring extra heat and crunch. Don’t forget your favorite hot sauce — it turns a wonderful meal into a crave-worthy feast.

Side Dishes

Mexican Picadillo is traditionally enjoyed with plain steamed rice or warm tortillas, which help soak up that incredible sauce. You can also serve it alongside refried beans, a simple salad, or roasted vegetables for a fuller, colorful plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling adventurous? Use Mexican Picadillo as a filling for tacos, tostadas, or enchiladas. It also makes a fantastic base for stuffed peppers, or you can layer it into a hearty Mexican-style shepherd’s pie. No matter how you serve it, this dish brings joy and warmth to the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Mexican Picadillo keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen with time, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.

Freezing

You can freeze Mexican Picadillo for up to 2 months. Just cool it completely and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently over medium heat on the stove or microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of beef stock or water if the mixture seems a bit thick. Stirring occasionally helps keep everything tasty and evenly heated.

FAQs

What makes Mexican Picadillo different from other picadillos?

Mexican Picadillo is distinguished by its specific combination of ingredients like yellow potatoes, jalapeno peppers, Mexican oregano, and cumin, giving it a distinct smoky, spicy, and earthy flavor unique to Mexican cuisine.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a great lighter alternative. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as these meats cook faster, and keep an eye on moisture levels to maintain flavor.

Is Mexican Picadillo a spicy dish?

It can be as spicy as you want. The jalapeno and optional serrano peppers bring moderate heat, but you can always omit or reduce the peppers if you prefer milder flavors or add chili flakes and hot sauce for extra heat.

Can I make Mexican Picadillo vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra veggies like mushrooms and lentils, and use vegetable stock instead of beef stock. The spices and potatoes will still provide that rich, satisfying experience.

What is the best way to serve Mexican Picadillo for a family dinner?

Serving Mexican Picadillo over steamed rice or with warm tortillas makes it family-friendly and easy for everyone to customize with their favorite garnishes like lime wedges, sliced peppers, and hot sauce.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Picadillo is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With its perfect harmony of savory meat, tender potatoes, and spicy, aromatic seasonings, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Don’t hesitate to give this classic a try and enjoy the explosion of flavors that make Mexican Picadillo truly unforgettable.

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