Description
This Authentic Cuban Beef Picadillo is a savory one-pan wonder loaded with flavor and tradition. Ground beef is simmered with onions, garlic, bell peppers, olives, and tomato sauce for a rich and satisfying meal. Sweet raisins and earthy spices make it uniquely Cuban, and it’s perfect served over white rice with plantains or tucked into tacos for a creative twist.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef (80/20)
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup tomato sauce
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 bay leaf
1/3 cup green olives, sliced
1/4 cup raisins (optional)
1/2 cup black beans (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Cooked white rice, for serving
Instructions
1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a bit of oil. Sauté chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and diced red bell pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add ground beef to the skillet and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
4. Stir in tomato sauce, cumin, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add sliced green olives and raisins (if using), and cook for 5 more minutes to blend the flavors.
6. Fold in black beans if desired and heat through.
7. Serve hot over a bed of white rice and enjoy!
Notes
Use 80/20 beef for best flavor and moisture. If you opt for leaner meat, consider adding a splash of olive oil during cooking.
Let the picadillo simmer long enough to reduce slightly for a richer, thicker sauce.
Add a handful of chopped cilantro or squeeze of lime before serving for a fresh twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Cuban
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 generous portion
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 790mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: beef picadillo, Cuban dinner, easy ground beef recipe