Mom’s Picadillo Con Papa (Ground Beef with Potatoes)

Mom’s Picadillo Con Papa (Ground Beef with Potatoes)

A classic comfort food, Picadillo con Papa is a beloved dish in many Latin households. Combining perfectly seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a rich tomato sauce, this recipe is simple yet full of bold, home-cooked flavors. Whether served with warm tortillas, fluffy rice, or creamy beans, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal your family will love.

Ingredients

• 1 medium Russet potato or 2 white potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 pound ground chuck
• 1 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 small white onion, diced
• 2 large Roma tomatoes, roughly chopped
• 1 to 2 serrano chiles, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup water
• Pinch of salt and Mexican oregano

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

1. Heat 1/8 to 1/4 cup olive oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat.
2. Add the diced potatoes and cook until they are golden brown and crispy on most sides.
   • Pro Tip: Cover the pan while the potatoes cook to trap steam, speeding up the cooking process.
3. Once cooked, transfer the potatoes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. In the same skillet, add the ground chuck and heat over medium-high.
2. Season the beef with salt, garlic powder, cumin, and black pepper.
3. Cook the beef for 8–10 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

1. Stir in the minced garlic and diced onion with the beef.
2. Cook for 2–3 minutes, or until the onions are softened and fragrant.

Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

1. In a blender, combine:
   • Chopped Roma tomatoes
   • Serrano chiles
   • 1/4 cup water
   • A pinch of salt
   • A pinch of Mexican oregano
2. Blend the mixture until smooth and well-combined.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

1. Pour the blended tomato sauce into the skillet with the beef and aromatics.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then taste and adjust the salt as needed.
3. Gently fold in the cooked potatoes, ensuring they are evenly coated with the sauce.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 7–10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.

Serve

This flavorful Picadillo con Papa is best enjoyed with:

• Warm tortillas for scooping
• Mexican rice or refried beans on the side
• A simple garnish of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for added brightness

Tips & Variations

• Heat Level: Adjust the number of serrano chiles to control the spiciness.
• Potato Varieties: Use Russet potatoes for a soft texture or waxy potatoes for firmer bites.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils.
• Meal Prep: This dish reheats beautifully and makes great leftovers for tacos or burritos!

Why We Love It

Mom’s Picadillo con Papa is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting reminder of home and family. Its rich, earthy flavors and satisfying textures make it a dish that’s always welcome at the dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings, it’s a timeless recipe that nourishes both body and soul. ❤️

Enjoy! 🌟