Quick Cuban Picadillo: A Hearty Ground Beef Dinner in 30 Minutes

Classic Cuban-Style Picadillo

Picadillo is a signature Cuban-style ground beef dish bursting with flavors like onions, bell peppers, and a hint of sweet raisins in a savory tomato base. This quick and easy dinner recipe transforms everyday ingredients into an unforgettable meal.

Rating: 4.6 (191 reviews) | Prep Time: 10 m | Cook Time: 20 m | Total Time: 30 m | Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients for Classic Picadillo

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
• ¼ cup green olives, sliced
• 2 tablespoons raisins
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooked white rice, for serving

Instructions: How to Make Picadillo

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and bell pepper; sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon; cook until browned and no longer pink.
5. Mix in crushed tomatoes, olives, raisins, cumin, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
7. Serve hot over steamed rice or as a filling for tacos or empanadas.

Serving Suggestions

• Scoop over fluffy white or yellow rice for a traditional presentation.
• Roll in warm tortillas for authentic Cuban-style tacos.
• Fill empanada dough for a portable snack on the go.

Recipe Tips & Variations

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
• Vegetarian twist: Substitute beef with crumbled tofu or cooked lentils.
• Herb boost: Stir in chopped cilantro just before serving.

Nutrition per Serving

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 24 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Fat: 19 g
• Sodium: 3572 mg

Enjoy your homemade picadillo over rice for a comforting meal.