Picadillo(Meat Dish)
A hearty and flavorful ground beef dish with potatoes and spices, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings, adaptable with green beans for variety.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain excess grease.
- Add chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, black pepper, and water to the skillet.
- Stir in diced potatoes (or green beans as a substitute).
- Cook on low heat until potatoes are tender and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of vinegar or a bay leaf during cooking. If you prefer a bit of sweetness, raisins can be added along with the potatoes. For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with lentils or tempeh. Feel free to substitute the potatoes with green beans for a lighter twist. This dish is versatile and can be adjusted to fit your pantry ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve picadillo with warm tortillas or over rice for a satisfying meal. It pairs beautifully with Crock-Pot Pinto Beans for a heartier feast. Consider adding a side of fresh avocado salad or sautéed greens to balance the dish. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro before serving can elevate the flavors and add a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Picadillo(Meat Dish) contains roughly 927 calories, with 18g protein, 126g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (114% of the Daily Value), potassium (57% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (52% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 15g 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, picadillo can be prepared a day in advance. In fact, the flavors tend to meld and improve when it sits overnight. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prep or for hosting gatherings.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian choice, consider using crumbled tempeh or lentils, which will provide a similar texture. Adjust cooking times accordingly, especially if using lentils, as they may require longer to cook until tender.
Is picadillo spicy?
Picadillo is typically not spicy, but you can adjust the heat level to your preference. Adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper will give it a kick. If you're serving it to children or those who prefer milder flavors, stick with the basic recipe as is.
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).