Picadillo(Boiled Ground Beef)
Hearty Spanish-inspired ground beef with potatoes, tomatoes, and garlic, simmered into a comforting stew perfect for family dinners or quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat 1 1/2 Tbsp. vegetable oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add 3 crushed garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in 1/4 cup sliced onion and 1/3 cup sliced tomatoes; cook for 3 minutes.
- Add 2 cups ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned; season with 1 tsp. salt and 1/4 tsp. pepper.
- Pour in 2 cups water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Add 2 diced potatoes, cover, and cook until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce while cooking the beef. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you want to make it spicier, include diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Serve with rice or tortillas for a complete meal. This dish is reminiscent of other hearty beef recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Picadillo hot, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added freshness. It pairs beautifully with rice, refried beans, or warm tortillas. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side salad or roasted vegetables. This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed as a filling in tacos or as a topping for nachos.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Picadillo(Boiled Ground Beef) contains roughly 264 calories, with 14g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (93% of the Daily Value) and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1550mg per serving (67% 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 use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even pork if you prefer. Each will impart a different flavor and texture but will still result in a delicious dish. Adjust cooking times slightly if using leaner meats to avoid overcooking.
How do I know when the potatoes are cooked through?
The potatoes are done when they are fork-tender. You can check by piercing them with a fork; if it slides in easily, they are ready. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of the potato cubes you use.
What can I serve with Picadillo?
Picadillo is excellent served with white rice or in tortillas as tacos. You can also pair it with sides like black beans, avocado salad, or even pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast. This hearty dish can also be enjoyed as a filling for stuffed peppers or served alongside a green salad.
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).