Picture this: a warm kitchen filled with the enticing aroma of spices and sizzling ingredients, transporting you to a vibrant Mexican street market. It was during my recent culinary adventures that I stumbled upon a delicious spin on a classic Mexican picadillo—this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet has become my go-to for those busy weeknights when I crave comfort food but also want a quick and delightful meal.
With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh produce, you can whip up a dish that’s not only hearty and full of flavor but also versatile enough to please any palate. Just imagine tender potatoes mingling with juicy ground beef, laced with the warmth of paprika and a hint of heat from jalapeños. Whether you choose to serve it over a fluffy bed of rice or tucked into warm tortillas, this recipe is bound to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen! Grab your skillet, and let’s dive in!
Why is Mexican Picadillo so irresistible?
Hearty, this dish brings the comfort of home-cooked meals right to your table. Quick to prepare, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Flavor-packed, the blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a symphony of taste that excites the palate. Versatile, serve it with rice, tortillas, or on its own for a winning comfort food option. Crowd-pleasing, it’s guaranteed to be a hit with both family and friends, leaving them asking for seconds!
Ingredients for Mexican Picadillo
Prepare to savor every bite with this delightful mix!
For the Skillet
• Olive oil – A splash of this helps to sauté the onions and potatoes to perfection.
• Yellow potatoes – Their creaminess brings a comforting texture to the dish.
• Yellow onion – A must for adding depth and sweetness to your savory base.
• Jalapeno pepper – This gives a kick of heat, perfect for those who enjoy a little spice!
• Serrano pepper (optional) – A hotter option for those who crave extra heat.
• Garlic – The aromatic touch that elevates all the flavors.
• Ground beef – The heart of your Mexican picadillo, providing richness and protein.
• Tomatoes – Freshness and moisture; they help to create a luscious sauce.
• Beef stock – Enhances the depth of flavor and ties everything together.
For the Seasoning
• Paprika – Adds smokiness and a beautiful color to your skillet.
• Mexican oregano – This aromatic herb brings nuances that are essential for Mexican cuisine.
• Cumin – A warm spice that adds an earthy flavor, making the dish truly authentic.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for balancing flavors, adjust to taste!
For Serving
• Cooked rice or warmed tortillas – A delightful base to soak up all that flavorful sauce.
• Sliced peppers – Fresh and crunchy, they’re a perfect garnish for a burst of color.
• Chili flakes – For those who like it extra spicy!
• Fresh lime juice – A splash adds brightness and zing to every bite.
• Hot sauce – An optional ingredient to dial up the heat even further.
How to Make Mexican Picadillo
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Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes, onion, and jalapeño peppers, cooking them for about 5 minutes until they start to soften and become fragrant.
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Stir in the minced garlic and ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Brown the beef for 5 minutes; it doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage, just nicely browned.
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Add the chopped tomatoes, beef stock, and seasoning: paprika, Mexican oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well, and then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
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Simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the potatoes to tenderize, soaking up all that delicious broth.
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Serve your Mexican picadillo over fluffy rice or wrap it in warm tortillas. Don’t forget to add extra sliced peppers, chili flakes, and a squeeze of lime for a vibrant finish!
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra layer of flavor and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Mexican Picadillo preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop the potatoes, onions, and peppers up to 24 hours ahead, storing them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. Additionally, the ground beef can be browned in advance and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just make sure to let it cool before sealing it tightly. When you’re ready to savor your meal, simply reheat the beef mixture in your skillet, add the tomatoes, stock, and seasonings, and simmer for about 20 minutes until everything is piping hot and delicious. This way, you’ll have a comforting dish ready with minimal effort on your busy nights!
Variations & Substitutions for Mexican Picadillo
Feel free to tweak this recipe to fit your taste buds and dietary needs!
- Vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with lentils or crumbled tofu for a hearty, plant-based option. Add additional veggies for extra texture!
- Spicy: Switch in a habanero pepper for the jalapeño for a fiery kick, but be cautious; it packs a serious heat punch!
- Sweet: Mix in diced apples or pineapple for a delightful sweetness that balances the spices perfectly—it’s a comforting surprise!
- Low-Carb: Replace potatoes with cauliflower for a lighter twist that’s just as satisfying and full of flavor. This makes it a perfect keto-friendly option!
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh cilantro or parsley at the end of cooking for a burst of freshness that brightens the whole dish.
- Flavor Boost: Incorporate a tablespoon of chipotle in adobo sauce for a smoky flavor that elevates this classic dish to new heights.
- Sour Cream Topping: Top servings with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess that complements the spices beautifully.
- Nutty Crunch: Finish with toasted pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch that adds a nutty flavor and great texture!
How to Store and Freeze Mexican Picadillo
Fridge: Store any leftover Mexican picadillo in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld even more, enhancing your next meal!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled picadillo in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave space for expansion and use a tight lid.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Just add a splash of beef stock if needed for moisture!
Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid keeping Mexican picadillo at room temperature for longer than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Tips for the Best Mexican Picadillo
• Prep Ahead: Get your ingredients prepped before cooking! Chop veggies and measure spices, ensuring a smooth cooking process that keeps flavors intact.
• Ground Beef Choice: Use a mixture of lean and fatty ground beef for a juicier texture in your Mexican picadillo, avoiding a dry outcome.
• Even Cooking: Cut all vegetables into similar-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly, preventing some from being undercooked while others become too soft.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Start with the suggested seasonings and adjust salt and pepper to suit your family’s preferences.
• Simmer Time: Don’t rush the simmering process; allow all the ingredients to meld together for 20 minutes to deepen the flavors of your Mexican picadillo.
What to Serve with Mexican Picadillo?
Transform your delightful skillet meal into a complete feast with perfect pairings that will make every bite sing!
- Fluffy Rice: The perfect base, allowing the rich sauce of the picadillo to soak into each grain, enhancing the hearty flavor.
- Warm Tortillas: Soft, chewy tortillas are ideal for scooping up the picadillo, making each bite a cozy, comforting experience.
- Sliced Peppers: Fresh bell peppers add a crispy contrast to the tender dish, brightening every mouthful with their crunch and color.
- Chili Flakes: For those who love a spicy kick, a sprinkle of these flakes provides an extra layer of heat that complements the dish beautifully.
- Fresh Lime Juice: A squeeze right before serving elevates the flavors, adding a zesty tang that balances the richness of the beef.
- Hot Sauce: Drizzle a little over each serving for an added explosion of flavor that will have everyone reaching for more!
- Crispy Chips: Serve with tortilla chips on the side for a crunchy textural contrast that makes for a fun and casual dining experience.
- Guacamole: The creamy avocado dip brings a cool, smooth element that perfectly offsets the hearty and spicy notes of the picadillo.
- Chilled Beer: A refreshing lager or light beer pairs wonderfully with this dish, enhancing the bold flavors while keeping things relaxed and enjoyable.
- Flan: For dessert, a slice of creamy flan adds a sweet and indulgent finish to your meal, making it truly memorable.
Ground Beef and Potato Skillet Recipe FAQs
What kind of potatoes are best for this recipe?
Absolutely! For this Ground Beef and Potato Skillet, yellow potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture and ability to hold up well during cooking. You can also use Yukon Gold if you prefer, as they provide a similar taste and consistency.
How should I store leftover Mexican Picadillo?
To store your delicious Mexican Picadillo, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. This not only keeps the flavors intact but may also enhance them as they meld together in the fridge!
Can I freeze Mexican Picadillo?
Yes! To freeze your Mexican Picadillo, first allow it to cool completely. Then, transfer it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop with a splash of beef stock to keep it moist.
What if my potatoes turn mushy during cooking?
If your potatoes turn mushy, it may be due to overcooking them. To avoid this, make sure to cut the potatoes into evenly sized pieces and keep an eye on them while simmering. If you notice them getting too soft, check for doneness earlier to ensure a perfect bite in your Mexican picadillo!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! While this recipe contains ground beef, you can substitute it with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a healthier or vegetarian option. Just ensure that the cooking time is slightly adjusted based on the meat or substitute used. If allergies are a concern, be mindful of the peppers and spices used!
Sizzle Up Your Dinner with Flavorful Mexican Picadillo
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes, onion, and jalapeño peppers, cooking them for about 5 minutes until they start to soften and become fragrant.
- Stir in the minced garlic and ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Brown the beef for 5 minutes; it doesn't need to be fully cooked at this stage, just nicely browned.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, beef stock, and seasoning: paprika, Mexican oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well, and then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the potatoes to tenderize, soaking up all that delicious broth.
- Serve your Mexican picadillo over fluffy rice or wrap it in warm tortillas. Don't forget to add extra sliced peppers, chili flakes, and a squeeze of lime for a vibrant finish!