Mexican Picadillo with Flour Tortillas 🌶️🥔
Mexican Picadillo is a comforting, traditional dish packed with savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and a medley of spices. Paired with warm flour tortillas, it’s a meal that combines simplicity with bold flavors, perfect for a family dinner or a quick and satisfying lunch.
Ingredients
For the Picadillo:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large tomato, chopped
- 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For Serving:
- Warm flour tortillas
Instructions
1. Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet or pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish lighter and less greasy.
2. Add Aromatics and Vegetables
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Stir in the diced potatoes, chopped tomato, and green bell pepper (if using) to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
3. Add Seasonings and Liquid
Sprinkle the ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir well to evenly coat the ingredients.
Pour in the tomato sauce and broth, stirring until the liquid creates a rich, saucy base.
4. Simmer the Picadillo
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and add more broth if needed to maintain a saucy consistency.
5. Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of fresh flavor. Serve warm alongside fresh flour tortillas, which are perfect for scooping up the hearty Picadillo.
Tips for Perfect Picadillo
- Customize the Heat: For extra spice, add diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne.
- Extra Veggies: Feel free to add peas, carrots, or zucchini for more texture and nutrition.
- Make It Ahead: Picadillo tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen, so it’s great for meal prep.
Why You’ll Love Mexican Picadillo
This dish is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a balance of savory, hearty, and slightly tangy flavors. It’s versatile enough to serve as a taco filling, with rice and beans, or simply with warm tortillas. The aroma of cumin and chili powder will have everyone rushing to the table!
Enjoy your Mexican Picadillo with a warm tortilla in hand—it’s comfort food at its finest. 🌮❤️