Picadillo is a classic Latin ground beef dish that blends savory, sweet, and briny flavors into one comforting meal. This Easy Cuban Picadillo recipe combines lean ground beef, sofrito-style vegetables, olives, raisins, tomato sauce, and warm spices for a dish that comes together quickly and delivers bold flavor. If you are searching for Spanish ground beef recipes or a dependable weeknight dinner, this picadillo recipe easy version is both traditional and approachable. It is a staple in many Cuban kitchens and is known for its balance of sweet raisins, salty olives, and savory beef simmered in tomato sauce. Whether served over rice or stuffed into empanadas, picadillo remains one of the best ground beef recipes for flavorful comfort food.
What Is Picadillo?
Picadillo is a traditional Latin dish made with ground beef and simmered with vegetables, spices, olives, and often raisins. While variations exist across Cuba, Mexico, and Spain, Cuban picadillo typically features tomato sauce, green olives, and raisins. The name “picadillo” comes from the Spanish word “picar,” meaning to mince or chop, referring to the ground meat base.
Why This Picadillo Recipe Works
The balance of ingredients is key. Lean ground beef provides richness without excess grease. Onion and red bell pepper create a simple sofrito base. Garlic enhances depth, while cumin and oregano add warmth. Raisins introduce subtle sweetness, and olives bring briny contrast. Tomato sauce and beef broth create a savory, lightly sauced finish that coats the meat perfectly.
Ingredients Breakdown
Ingredient Table (1x Batch)
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | Sauté base |
| Onion | 1/2 cup diced | Aromatic sweetness |
| Red bell pepper | 3/4 cup diced | Color & flavor |
| Ground beef (90% lean) | 1 1/2 pounds | Main protein |
| Garlic | 2 teaspoons | Flavor depth |
| Green olives | 1/2 cup sliced | Briny contrast |
| Raisins | 1/4 cup | Sweet balance |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon | Warm spice |
| Oregano | 1/2 teaspoon | Herbal note |
| Bay leaf | 1 | Subtle flavor |
| Tomato sauce | 8 ounces | Sauce base |
| Beef broth | 1/2 cup | Moisture |
| Parsley or cilantro | 2 tablespoons | Fresh garnish |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Seasoning |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and red bell pepper. Cook 4–5 minutes until softened.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add ground beef to the pan. Cook 6–8 minutes, breaking apart with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasoning
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Build the Flavor
Add olives, raisins, cumin, oregano, bay leaf, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
Step 5: Simmer
Bring mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook 10–15 minutes until sauce thickens slightly and flavors meld.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove bay leaf. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro before serving.
Pro Tips for Best Picadillo
Use 90% lean beef to reduce grease. Adjust sweetness by adding more or fewer raisins. For extra depth, add a splash of red wine or a spoonful of sofrito. Always remove the bay leaf before serving.
How to Serve Picadillo
Serve over white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice. It also works as a filling for tacos, empanadas, stuffed peppers, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. Some enjoy it with fried plantains or a side salad.
Storage and Meal Prep
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Picadillo freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Conclusion
Picadillo is a flavorful, comforting ground beef dish that delivers bold Latin-inspired taste with minimal effort. This Easy Cuban Picadillo recipe stands out among Spanish ground beef recipes thanks to its balance of savory beef, sweet raisins, and briny olives. Whether served traditionally with rice or creatively in tacos and bowls, this classic dish offers versatility and rich flavor in every bite.
Print
Easy Cuban Picadillo – Classic Spanish Ground Beef Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Easy Cuban Picadillo made with ground beef, olives, raisins, tomato sauce, and warm spices. A quick and flavorful Latin ground beef recipe perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup diced onion
3/4 cup diced red bell pepper
1 1/2 pounds ground beef (90% lean)
2 teaspoons minced garlic
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup sliced pimiento stuffed green olives
1/4 cup raisins
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1 bay leaf
8 ounce can tomato sauce
1/2 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons chopped parsley or cilantro
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in pan.
2. Cook onion and bell pepper until softened.
3. Add ground beef and brown.
4. Stir in garlic and seasonings.
5. Add olives, raisins, tomato sauce, and broth.
6. Simmer 10–15 minutes until thickened.
7. Remove bay leaf and garnish before serving.
Notes
Drain excess grease if needed.
Adjust sweetness by reducing raisins.
Freezes well up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cuban
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make picadillo without raisins?
Yes, but raisins provide traditional sweetness.
2. Can I substitute ground turkey?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter option.
3. How thick should the sauce be?
It should lightly coat the beef without being watery.
4. Is picadillo spicy?
This version is mild. Add chili flakes for heat.