Green Chile Picadillo Tacos: A Bold and Flavorful Mexican Delight
Green Chile Picadillo Tacos bring together the smoky heat of roasted Hatch chiles, the heartiness of ground beef, and the satisfying texture of tender potatoes. Wrapped in warm tortillas and topped with fresh garnishes, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 6 Hatch chiles, roasted, peeled, seeded, and chopped
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 white onion, diced and divided
- 2 tbsp canola oil
- 2 russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ cup water
- 20 flour or corn tortillas, warmed
- Cilantro and lime wedges, for topping
Instructions
1. Prepare the Hatch Chiles
- Peel the outer skin off the roasted Hatch chiles.
- Remove the seeds, chop them into small pieces, and set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over high heat. Cook the ground beef in batches (1 pound at a time) until browned.
- Transfer the cooked beef to a bowl and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
- Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add ¾ of the diced onion and the minced garlic.
- Stir frequently until the onions are translucent. Transfer the mixture to the bowl with the cooked beef.
4. Cook the Potatoes
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the canola oil to the skillet.
- Sauté the diced potatoes until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Combine and Season
- Return the cooked ground beef and onion mixture to the skillet with the potatoes.
- Add cumin, chili powder, kosher salt, and water. Stir well and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the water to reduce.
- Stir in the chopped Hatch chiles and cook for another 2-3 minutes to incorporate the flavors.
6. Assemble the Tacos
- Spoon the Green Chile Picadillo mixture into warm tortillas.
- Top with the remaining diced onion, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Tips for the Best Green Chile Picadillo Tacos
- Choose Your Tortillas: Flour tortillas offer a soft and pliable wrap, while corn tortillas provide an authentic texture and flavor.
- Roast Chiles at Home: If using fresh Hatch chiles, roast them on an open flame or under a broiler for a smoky flavor.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of Hatch chiles or add a serrano pepper for extra spice.
- Make-Ahead Option: The picadillo filling can be prepared a day in advance and reheated before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Green Chile Picadillo Tacos are a flavorful fusion of hearty ingredients and bold spices. The roasted Hatch chiles add a smoky, earthy dimension that pairs perfectly with the tender potatoes and savory beef. Topped with fresh cilantro, crunchy onions, and a spritz of lime, these tacos are an irresistible combination of textures and tastes.
Perfect for taco night, family meals, or parties, this dish is sure to become a new favorite. 🌮🌶️