Cuban Picadillo is one of those timeless comfort dishes that bridges cultures and brings warmth to the dinner table. At its core, it’s a hearty ground beef hash simmered with onions, garlic, bell peppers, tomatoes, and fragrant spices. What makes Cuban Picadillo truly unique, however, are the sweet and savory contrasts—briny green olives, plump raisins, and sometimes capers—that create a flavor profile unlike any other dish. It’s soulful, vibrant, and a beautiful representation of Cuba’s culinary heritage.

This dish has a long history in Latin American and Spanish kitchens, but the Cuban variation stands out for its balance of flavors. Served with rice, fried plantains, or even stuffed inside empanadas, Picadillo is as versatile as it is delicious. It’s the kind of recipe that makes a weeknight dinner feel special yet comforting.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love Cuban Picadillo because it combines simple pantry ingredients into something extraordinary. The ground beef provides heartiness, the tomato base adds richness, and the olives and raisins add unexpected but delightful bursts of tang and sweetness.

Every bite is layered with flavor, and the aroma that fills the kitchen is nothing short of intoxicating. What makes it even more special is its versatility. It can be served over fluffy white rice, tucked into tacos or empanadas, or paired with fried eggs for a complete meal.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

If you’ve never had Cuban Picadillo, you’re in for a treat. It’s:

• Flavor-packed: A perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy.
• Budget-friendly: Uses affordable, everyday ingredients.
• One-pan meal: Quick to prepare, easy to clean up.
• Versatile: Can be eaten alone or incorporated into multiple dishes.
• Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.

This dish is more than just food—it’s a culinary journey through Cuban tradition that deserves a spot in your recipe collection.

Recipe Information:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: Approximately 320 calories per serving (without rice or sides)
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Cuban / Latin American

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (lean, about 85/15)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (or 3 fresh ripe tomatoes, chopped)
• ½ cup pimento-stuffed green olives, sliced
• ¼ cup raisins
• 1–2 tbsp capers (optional)
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, adds depth)
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup beef broth or water (adjust for consistency)
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Quick Directions

1. Sauté onion, pepper, and garlic in olive oil.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
3. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and spices.
4. Add olives, raisins, and capers. Simmer until flavors meld.
5. Adjust seasoning and serve hot over rice.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method:

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook 1 minute more.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until no longer pink, about 7–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, cumin, oregano, paprika, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the beef with spices.

Step 4: Add the Cuban Twist

Stir in sliced olives, raisins, and capers. Add beef broth or water to loosen the mixture. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Remove bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.

How to Serve

• Traditionally served over white rice (arroz blanco).
• Pair with fried plantains (tostones or maduros).
• Stuff into empanadas or tacos for a fun variation.
• Serve alongside black beans for a classic Cuban-style meal.

Tips for this Recipe:

1. Use lean ground beef for a less greasy dish.
2. Let it simmer longer for deeper flavor.
3. Add a splash of dry white wine for extra richness.
4. Use fresh tomatoes if available—they add a lighter taste.
5. Don’t skip the olives and raisins—they make the dish authentic.

Variations:

• Picadillo with Potatoes: Add diced potatoes for extra heartiness.
• Turkey Picadillo: Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version.
• Spicy Picadillo: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red chili flakes.
• Vegetarian Picadillo: Replace beef with lentils or textured vegetable protein.
• Caribbean Twist: Add a bit of allspice or cinnamon for warmth.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Cool completely, then freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Airtight containers for storage

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1: Can I make Cuban Picadillo ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, the flavors deepen overnight, making it taste even better the next day.

Q2: Can I use black olives instead of green olives?
Green olives are traditional, but black olives can be used if you prefer a milder taste.

Q3: What can I serve it with besides rice?
You can serve Picadillo with quinoa, mashed potatoes, or even pasta.

Q4: Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, just ensure your tomato sauce and broth are gluten-free.

Q5: Is Picadillo spicy?
Cuban Picadillo is typically mild, but you can spice it up with chili peppers or hot sauce.

Conclusion

Cuban Picadillo with Ground Beef is a true comfort food that delivers bold, unexpected flavors in every bite. Its combination of savory beef, tangy olives, and sweet raisins makes it stand out from other ground beef recipes. Whether you’re new to Cuban cuisine or a long-time fan, this dish is a must-try that will quickly become a family favorite. It’s hearty, versatile, and deeply satisfying—perfect for weeknights, gatherings, or meal prepping.