Picadillo Soup
A hearty Latin American-inspired soup with savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and fresh tomatoes, perfect for comforting family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute garlic with onions and chopped tomatoes.
- Add 2 bouillon cubes and continue sauteing on medium heat.
- Add ground beef and potatoes with about 1/4 cup water.
- Bring to a boil; continue adding water to achieve soup consistency.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or oregano to the sautéed mixture. If you're looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef. Adjust the water according to your preferred soup consistency, and feel free to add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition. This recipe is reminiscent of Beef recipes from various Latin cuisines.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Picadillo Soup with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Baked French Onion Soup for a comforting dinner. Garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for added brightness, and consider offering avocado slices on the side for creaminess.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a bit of water or broth if it thickens too much. You can also microwave the soup in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Picadillo Soup contains roughly 618 calories, with 13g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), potassium (28% of the Daily Value), and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 soup in advance?
Yes, Picadillo Soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve after a day, making it a great meal prep option. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
What can I use instead of potatoes?
If you want to skip potatoes, consider using sweet potatoes or even zucchini for a lower-carb option. Both will add a different flavor profile and texture while still providing heartiness to the soup.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this Picadillo Soup is gluten-free as it contains no wheat-based ingredients. Just ensure that any bouillon cubes you use are labeled gluten-free to maintain that quality.
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).