When life gets busy but you’re craving something hearty, flavorful, and comforting, this Easy Picadillo Recipe Mexican style is your perfect go-to. Bursting with bold spices, tender ground beef, and colorful veggies, it’s a dish that’s both satisfying and quick to prepare — ideal for weeknights or whenever you need a taste of homemade Mexican comfort food fast! 🇲🇽
Let’s dive into how you can make this Easy Picadillo Recipe Mexican for busy days!
🌶️ What Is Mexican Picadillo?
Picadillo is a classic Latin American comfort dish made from ground meat (usually beef) simmered with tomatoes, potatoes, onions, and spices. Every country has its own version, but the Mexican style is distinct for its smoky flavor, mild spice, and the occasional hint of sweetness from raisins or carrots.
Think of it as a Mexican-style ground beef hash — versatile, comforting, and ready in about 30 minutes!
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you need to create the perfect Mexican Picadillo:
🌮 Main Ingredients:
1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend for flavor)
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 Roma tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes)
1 carrot, diced (optional)
1 jalapeño or green chili, minced (optional for heat)
½ cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
½ cup beef broth or water
🌿 Seasonings:
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp chili powder
½ tsp oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
🍇 Optional Add-ins:
2 tbsp raisins (for a sweet-savory balance)
¼ cup green olives, sliced (for tangy contrast)
🌯 To Serve:
Warm tortillas or white rice
Fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and avocado slices
👩🍳 How to Make Easy Mexican Picadillo
Follow these simple steps to make the best picadillo recipe Mexican style in under 30 minutes:
🔥 Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink — about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
🧅 Step 2: Add Aromatics
Add the onion and garlic to the pan. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and soft.
If you’re adding jalapeño or carrots, toss them in now for extra depth and flavor.
🍅 Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasoning
Stir in chopped tomatoes, tomato sauce, cumin, paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it simmer for about 3–4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
🥔 Step 4: Add Potatoes and Broth
Add diced potatoes and beef broth. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook on low heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the sauce thickens.
🫒 Step 5: Add Final Touches
For that authentic Mexican picadillo flavor, stir in raisins and green olives near the end of cooking. Let them warm through for a minute or two.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed — more salt for savoriness, or a squeeze of lime for brightness.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
The beauty of picadillo is its versatility! Try these easy serving ideas to fit your mood:
🌮 Taco Night: Spoon the picadillo into soft tortillas, top with diced onions, cilantro, and lime juice.
🍚 Over Rice: Serve over white or Mexican rice for a comforting bowl meal.
🥔 Stuffed Peppers: Fill roasted bell peppers with picadillo for a hearty twist.
🧀 Quesadilla Filling: Use as a savory filling with melted cheese in crispy tortillas.
💡 Practical Tips for Success
✅ Use a wide skillet — helps everything cook evenly and the sauce reduce beautifully.
✅ Don’t skip the potatoes — they soak up flavor and make the dish more filling.
✅ Customize the heat — add jalapeño or chili flakes if you like it spicier.
✅ Add veggies — corn, peas, or bell peppers can boost texture and nutrition.
✅ Meal prep friendly — picadillo stores and reheats beautifully for quick lunches.
🧊 Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water to loosen.
Freeze for up to 2 months — it’s perfect for meal prep or last-minute dinners!
🌎 Why You’ll Love This Easy Picadillo Recipe
This Easy Picadillo Recipe Mexican for busy days isn’t just about convenience — it’s about flavor, tradition, and comfort in every bite. The combination of ground beef, spices, and veggies creates a satisfying meal that feels homemade without taking hours to make.
It’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and endlessly adaptable — a staple every home cook should have in their weekly rotation!
🥄 Conclusion
If you’re short on time but still want to enjoy the warm, vibrant flavors of Mexico, this Easy Picadillo Recipe Mexican for busy days will become your new favorite. Serve it with tortillas, rice, or even inside empanadas — and enjoy a meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and ready in minutes! 🌶️🍅