Cuban Picadillo with Ground Beef
Cuban Picadillo with Ground Beef is a flavorful and comforting dish made with seasoned beef, tomatoes, olives, and warm spices for the perfect balance of savory and sweet. This easy dinner recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family meals, and authentic Cuban-inspired comfort food.
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)
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Garnish u0026 Serve Remove bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.