Flavorful Ground Beef Potatoes Picadillo: 1 Pan Meal

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Ground Beef Potatoes Picadillo has always been my go-to for a comforting, fuss-free meal that tastes incredible. I remember my abuela making a version of this dish when I was a kid, the aroma of simmering tomatoes and spices filling her tiny kitchen. That rich, savory scent wafted through the house, promising a delicious dinner. This picadillo with potatoes and ground beef captures that same heartwarming essence. It’s a simple, satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights, bringing a taste of Latin American comfort right to your table. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Potatoes Picadillo

Get ready to fall in love with this incredible dish! Here’s why it’s a winner:

• It’s incredibly flavorful and satisfying.
• This is an easy Ground Beef and Potato Picadillo that comes together quickly.
• It’s a hearty one-pan meal, meaning less cleanup!
• The blend of tender potatoes and seasoned ground beef is pure comfort.
• This Easy Ground Beef and Potato Picadillo is perfect for busy weeknights.
• It’s versatile and can be adapted to your favorite spices.
• You’ll love the savory aroma that fills your kitchen as it cooks.
• It’s a fantastic way to enjoy classic Latin American flavors.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Potatoes Picadillo

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to making a fantastic picadillo recipe with ground beef and potatoes. I find that using good quality ground beef makes a big difference in the final flavor, so I usually opt for an 80/20 blend. Don’t worry too much about the exact size of your dice for the potatoes; just aim for pieces that are roughly the same so they cook evenly. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the aromatics
• 1 medium onion, chopped – about 1 cup, adds a sweet base
• 1 small bell pepper, chopped (optional) – adds a little extra flavor and color
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that savory punch
• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 recommended) – the heart of our picadillo
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin – brings warmth and earthy notes
• 1 teaspoon paprika or chili powder – for a touch of color and gentle heat
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste) – enhances all the other flavors
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – for a little zing
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup tomato sauce) – forms the base of our savory sauce
• 2 medium potatoes, diced evenly – about 2 cups, they soak up all the delicious juices
• ¾ cup water or broth – helps create the perfect sauce consistency
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro or parsley (for garnish) – adds a burst of freshness at the end

How to Make Ground Beef Potatoes Picadillo

This recipe is so straightforward, you’ll be making this authentic picadillo with potatoes time and time again. It’s a truly hearty and comforting dish that comes together beautifully in one pan. Let’s get started!

1. Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

   Start by heating 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your finely chopped onion and bell pepper (if using). Sauté these for about 4–5 minutes until they start to soften and become fragrant. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just another 30 seconds until you can smell its wonderful aroma. This step builds our flavor base.

2. Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

   Now, add the 1 pound ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with your spoon and cook until it’s nicely browned, which usually takes about 6–8 minutes. Drain off any excess fat if you prefer. Season the browned beef generously with 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon paprika or chili powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Stir it all together so the spices coat the meat.

3. Step 3: Simmer and Cook Potatoes

   Stir in the chopped tomatoes or tomato sauce, letting it simmer for 3–4 minutes to start forming a rich sauce. Next, you’ll mix in the 2 medium potatoes, diced evenly. Pour in about ¾ cup water or broth, just enough to nearly cover the potatoes. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. This is where the magic happens for an authentic picadillo with potatoes.

4. Step 4: Thicken and Finish

   Once the potatoes are tender, uncover the skillet. Let it simmer for an additional 5–10 minutes. This crucial step allows the sauce to thicken beautifully, concentrating all those savory flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed – maybe a little more salt or pepper? Finally, garnish generously with 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro or parsley right before serving. This final touch makes our Ground Beef Potatoes Picadillo truly shine.

Pro Tips for the Best Ground Beef Potato Picadillo

I’ve made this dish countless times, and a few tricks really elevate it from good to amazing. These tips will help you achieve that perfect flavor and texture every single time.

• For the most tender potatoes, try to dice them into uniform ½-inch cubes. This ensures they cook through evenly without getting mushy.
• Don’t skip the final uncovered simmer! This is key to thickening the sauce and concentrating the flavors, making it a truly savory ground beef potato picadillo.
• If you can’t find fresh tomatoes, good quality canned diced tomatoes or tomato sauce work just as well. Just be sure to adjust your salt accordingly.
• A splash of red wine vinegar or a squeeze of lime juice at the end can really brighten up the flavors. For more on flavor balancing, check out these tips from our kitchen.

What’s the secret to perfect Ground Beef Potatoes Picadillo?

The real secret to a perfect savory ground beef potato picadillo is building layers of flavor. Sautéing the aromatics well, browning the beef properly, and letting the potatoes simmer gently in the seasoned tomato sauce are all crucial steps. It’s about patience and allowing those delicious ingredients to meld together. You can learn more about the importance of flavor development in cooking.

Can I make Ground Beef Potatoes Picadillo ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the dish up to the point where you add the potatoes and liquid. Store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, add the potatoes and liquid, then proceed with the simmering steps as usual. For more information on food safety and storage, consult our guidelines.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Ground Beef Potatoes Picadillo?

A common pitfall is overcrowding the pan when browning the beef, which steams instead of browns it. Make sure to cook the beef in batches if necessary. Also, don’t over-stir the potatoes once they start cooking, as this can break them down too much. Gentle simmering is best. Understanding cooking techniques can help prevent these issues; explore our cooking resources.

Best Ways to Serve Ground Beef Potatoes Picadillo

This hearty ground beef potato picadillo is so versatile, it fits perfectly into many meal settings. It’s fantastic served on its own as a complete meal, especially when you want something filling and comforting without a lot of fuss. For a more traditional spread, I love serving it alongside fluffy white rice, which is perfect for soaking up any extra savory sauce. You could also pair it with some warm corn tortillas for scooping, or a simple side salad to add a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of this delicious picadillo.

Nutrition Facts for Ground Beef Potatoes Picadillo

This ground beef potatoes picadillo is a satisfying meal that balances flavor and nutrition. As a hearty dish, it offers a good amount of protein and complex carbohydrates to keep you full and energized. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional content per serving:

• Calories: 320
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 520mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more details on our data sources, please see our Terms of Use.

How to Store and Reheat Ground Beef Potatoes Picadillo

This delicious ground beef and potato stew picadillo is fantastic for meal prep, and thankfully, it stores and reheats beautifully. Once cooked, let the picadillo cool down completely at room temperature for about an hour. Then, transfer it into airtight containers. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, this dish freezes wonderfully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. It should keep for about 3 months in the freezer. For information on safe food handling, refer to our GDPR compliance.

When you’re ready to reheat, you have a few options. On the stovetop, gently warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. In the microwave, simply place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power, stirring halfway through, until heated through. Either method works great to bring back that comforting flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Potatoes Picadillo

What is Ground Beef Potatoes Picadillo?

Ground Beef Potatoes Picadillo is a savory, comforting dish that combines seasoned ground beef with tender diced potatoes simmered in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. It’s a hearty one-pan meal that’s popular in many Latin American cuisines, offering a delicious blend of savory, sweet, and sometimes slightly spicy notes. Think of it as a flavorful hash or stew.

How to make Ground Beef Potatoes Picadillo

Making this dish is quite straightforward! You’ll start by sautéing onions and peppers, then browning seasoned ground beef. Next, you add tomatoes and diced potatoes, cover it with liquid, and simmer until the potatoes are tender. A final uncovered simmer thickens the sauce, and you have a delicious meal! It’s a simple process that yields fantastic results.

Can I substitute the potatoes in this picadillo recipe?

Yes, you can! While potatoes are traditional and absorb the savory flavors so well, you could try using sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness, or even diced carrots and peas for a different vegetable medley. Just ensure your substitutions cook in a similar amount of time, or adjust the cooking process accordingly to achieve that perfect tender texture in your Ground Beef Potatoes Picadillo.

What kind of ground beef is best for this dish?

I usually recommend an 80/20 ground beef for this Ground Beef Potatoes Picadillo. The slight fat content helps keep the meat moist and flavorful as it cooks, and it contributes to the overall richness of the sauce. If you prefer a leaner option, 90/10 works too, but you might want to add a little extra olive oil during the sautéing step to compensate for any lost moisture.

Variations of Ground Beef Potatoes Picadillo You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, don’t be afraid to experiment! This dish is wonderfully adaptable. For a taste of the Caribbean, try a Cuban picadillo ground beef potatoes version by adding green olives and capers towards the end of cooking. If you’re craving a more traditional Mexican picadillo ground beef potatoes style, incorporate some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat, and maybe a splash of lime juice at the end. You could also make it vegetarian by swapping the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or extra beans. Another fun twist is to turn it into a casserole by layering the picadillo mixture with cheese and baking until bubbly!

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