Picadillo is a beloved Mexican comfort dish made with seasoned ground beef, tender vegetables, and a rich homemade chile-tomato sauce. It’s simple, affordable, and incredibly satisfying—perfect for family meals or meal prep. Every bite is packed with flavor, making it a staple in many Mexican kitchens.
🌶️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This traditional picadillo is all about bold flavor and simplicity:
- Hearty and filling with beef, potatoes, and vegetables
- Rich homemade sauce with fresh chiles and tomatoes
- Easy one-pan meal perfect for busy days
- Budget-friendly and great for large families
- Versatile—serve it in tacos, with rice, or on its own
🥩 Key Ingredients
This dish uses simple ingredients that create deep, comforting flavors:
- Ground beef: The base of the dish, rich and savory
- Potatoes & carrots: Add texture and heartiness
- Roma tomatoes: Form the base of the sauce
- Jalapeños & serrano chiles: Bring heat and flavor
- Peas & corn: Add sweetness and balance
- Mexican squash (calabacitas): Light and tender addition
- Spices: Cumin, oregano, chili powder—classic Mexican flavors
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
For the Sauce:
4 Roma tomatoes, boiled
2 jalapeños
3 serrano chiles
¼ onion
2 garlic cloves
1 tablespoon chicken bouillon
1 teaspoon oregano
½ cup water
For the Picadillo:
½ onion, chopped
2 lbs lean ground beef
1 tablespoon New Mexico chili powder
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons onion powder
2 teaspoons black pepper
1 tablespoon salt (adjust to taste)
3 small potatoes, diced
8 oz baby carrots, chopped
¼–½ cup tomato sauce
1 cup peas
1 cup sweet corn
2 Mexican squash (calabacitas), chopped
Cooking oil, for sautéing
🍲 How to Make Picadillo
1. Prepare the Sauce
Blend boiled tomatoes with chiles, onion, garlic, bouillon, oregano, and water until smooth. This sauce is the heart of the dish.
2. Cook the Beef
Sauté onions, then add ground beef and spices. Cook until browned and full of flavor.
3. Add Vegetables
Mix in potatoes and carrots, allowing them to soften slightly and absorb the seasoning.
4. Simmer with Sauce
Pour in the blended sauce and a bit of tomato sauce. Let everything simmer gently so the flavors combine beautifully.
5. Finish the Dish
Add peas, corn, and squash. Cover and cook until all vegetables are tender and perfectly cooked.
6. Serve
Serve hot with rice, beans, or warm tortillas for a complete and comforting meal.
💡 Expert Tips
- Dice vegetables small so they cook evenly
- Control the spice level by adjusting serrano chiles
- Let it simmer well—this enhances flavor depth
- Use fresh ingredients for the best taste
- Great for leftovers—flavor improves the next day
🍋 Serving Ideas
Picadillo is incredibly versatile:
- Serve with Mexican rice and beans
- Use as filling for tacos, burritos, or empanadas
- Top with fresh cilantro and lime juice
- Enjoy with warm corn tortillas
🧮 Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
❓ FAQs
Can I make it less spicy?
Yes! Reduce or remove the serrano chiles for a milder version.
Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely—zucchini, green beans, or bell peppers work great.
How long does it last?
Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Final Thoughts
Traditional Mexican Picadillo is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something truly delicious. It’s comforting, flavorful, and easy to make—ideal for anyone who loves homemade meals with authentic taste.