Picadillo (Filling For Tacos)
A flavorful ground beef filling with vegetables and herbs, perfect for tacos. Savory, spicy, and hearty, it suits casual gatherings and weeknight dinners alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef until browned.
- Drain off excess fat.
- Add diced onion, minced garlic, and diced jalapeno peppers to the beef.
- Cook until tender.
- Stir in diced tomato, potatoes, carrots, peas, salt, and chopped cilantro.
- Cover and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Serve as a filling in warmed tortillas and enjoy with hot sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken as a substitute for the beef. You can also add spices like cumin or paprika for extra depth. If you want a slightly sweeter profile, try incorporating a small amount of raisins. Adjust the heat level by using more or fewer jalapenos, or even switch to milder peppers if preferred. This dish works well in a Quick Taco Platter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the picadillo as a filling in warmed tortillas, topped with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime. It also pairs beautifully with rice and beans for a complete meal. For a fun twist, try it in tacos, burritos, or even as a topping for nachos. Complement with sides like guacamole or a fresh salad to enhance your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, making sure to cover the container to retain moisture. For longer storage, freeze the picadillo for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Picadillo (Filling For Tacos) contains roughly 834 calories, with 19g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (115% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (103% of the Daily Value), and potassium (68% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2238mg per serving (97% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
To freeze, let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
What can I use instead of beef?
Feel free to experiment with your preference!
How spicy is this dish?
Taste as you go to find your perfect balance!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).