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Mexican Picadillo – Savory Ground Beef and Potatoes in Spiced Tomato Sauce

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Mexican Picadillo is a one-skillet ground beef dish simmered with potatoes, tomatoes, and spices. Easy, comforting, and packed with bold flavors—perfect for tacos, rice bowls, or weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)

  • 1 tbsp oil

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 green bell pepper, diced

  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced small

  • 1½ tsp ground cumin

  • 1 tsp chili powder

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • ½ tsp salt, or to taste

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce or 4 blended Roma tomatoes

  • ½ cup beef broth or water

  • ½ cup frozen peas (optional)

  • ½ cup diced carrots (optional)

  • Chopped cilantro or lime wedges, for garnish

Instructions

  • Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

  • Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté 5 minutes until softened.

  • Stir in diced potatoes, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

  • Pour in tomato sauce and broth. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.

  • Cover and cook for 20–25 minutes until potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally.

  • Add peas and carrots in the last 5 minutes of cooking.

  • Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with cilantro or lime.

Notes

  • For a spicier version, add jalapeño or chipotle powder.

  • Great as a taco filling or served over rice.

  • Freezes well for 3 months.

  • Use turkey or lentils for a lighter or vegetarian option.