Mexican Picadillo with Flour Tortillas 🌶️🥔
If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful, and budget-friendly dish, Mexican Picadillo is the answer. This hearty stew of ground beef, tender potatoes, tomatoes, and warm spices has been a staple in Mexican kitchens for generations. Simple yet packed with flavor, it’s the kind of meal that brings the family together around the table.
Traditionally, picadillo is served with warm flour tortillas, making it perfect for scooping, wrapping, or enjoying taco-style. Whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this dish delivers authentic Mexican flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️
- Hearty & comforting – potatoes and beef make it filling and satisfying.
- Quick & easy – ready in about 30 minutes, with just a handful of ingredients.
- Family-friendly – mild spices and familiar flavors kids and adults enjoy.
- Versatile – serve with tortillas, rice, or even as a filling for empanadas.
Ingredients 🛒
For the Picadillo:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large tomato, chopped
- 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For Serving:
- Warm flour tortillas
Step-by-Step Instructions 👩🍳
1️⃣ Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned.
- Drain excess fat for a lighter dish.
2️⃣ Add Aromatics & Vegetables
- Stir in chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add diced potatoes, chopped tomato, and bell pepper (if using).
- Cook for another 2–3 minutes to combine flavors.
3️⃣ Season & Add Liquid
- Sprinkle cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir well.
- Pour in tomato sauce and broth, stirring to create a rich base.
4️⃣ Simmer Until Tender
- Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for 15–20 minutes.
- Stir occasionally; add more broth if needed for a saucy consistency.
5️⃣ Garnish & Serve
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh cilantro.
- Serve hot with warm flour tortillas for scooping or wrapping.
Expert Tips & Variations 🌟
- For a smoky flavor – add a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
- Add veggies – peas, carrots, or zucchini can be stirred in for more nutrition.
- Make it spicy – include jalapeños or serrano peppers with the onion.
- Use leftovers creatively – picadillo makes a fantastic filling for tacos, burritos, or empanadas.
Important Notes ⚠️
- Cut potatoes into small, even cubes to ensure they cook through.
- Don’t overcook—potatoes should be tender but not mushy.
- If the mixture gets too thick, add extra broth little by little.
Nutritional Information (per serving, 1/6 of recipe with 2 tortillas) 📊
- Calories: ~380
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ❓
1. What kind of beef should I use?
Ground beef with 80/20 fat ratio works best—it’s flavorful but not too greasy.
2. Can I make Mexican Picadillo ahead of time?
Yes! It reheats beautifully and even tastes better the next day. Store in the fridge up to 3 days.
3. Can I freeze picadillo?
Absolutely. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove.
4. Do I have to use flour tortillas?
No, you can serve it with corn tortillas, rice, or even mashed potatoes—it’s versatile!
✨ Mexican Picadillo with Flour Tortillas is one of those dishes that proves comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a hearty, flavorful meal on the table that everyone will love. 🌮🥔