Homemade Picadillo

Here’s a classic Homemade Picadillo recipe—a comforting, savory Latin American dish made with ground beef, tomatoes, olives, and spices. It’s perfect for serving over rice, stuffing in tacos or empanadas, or enjoying on its own.

Homemade Picadillo Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4–6

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 1 green bell pepper, chopped

• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)

• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce

• 1 large tomato, chopped (or 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes)

• 1/4 cup green olives, sliced (pimento-stuffed if preferred)

• 2 tbsp raisins (optional but traditional)

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1/2 tsp dried oregano

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1–2 bay leaves

• 1 tbsp capers (optional)

‍ Instructions:

1. Sauté Aromatics:

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

• Add onion and bell pepper; cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.

• Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

2. Brown the Meat:

• Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.

3. Add Tomatoes and Seasoning:

• Stir in tomato sauce, chopped tomato, cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, pepper, and bay leaves.

• Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes.

4. Finish the Picadillo:

• Add olives, raisins, and capers (if using). Simmer uncovered for another 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly.

• Remove bay leaves before serving.

️ Serving Suggestions:

• Serve over white rice or with black beans.

• Use as a filling for tacos, empanadas, or stuffed bell peppers.

• Top with a fried egg for a Cuban-style twist.

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