Classic Cuban Picadillo Recipe – Easy, Flavorful & Healthy
If you want to get a taste of Cuba in every bite of your meal, today’s recipe is perfect for you. If you want to enjoy a flavor-packed, easy ground beef recipe for family dinners, meal prep, or healthy weeknight meals, this Authentic Cuban Picadillo Recipe is my suggestion.
Picadillo — a beloved Latin American comfort food — combines lean ground beef, onions, bell peppers, green olives, raisins, and tomatoes to create a sweet-savory blend that’s both satisfying and wholesome. What makes it truly special is how affordable, customizable, and protein-rich it is — ideal for anyone who wants a healthy dinner on a budget that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
This Cuban-style Picadillo is cooked all in one pan, meaning less cleanup and more family time. Whether you serve it with white rice, crispy plantains, or wrap it in tortillas for a fusion-style taco night, this recipe fits seamlessly into any diet plan — from low-carb to high-protein meal prep.
With its rich tomato base, aromatic spices, and hearty texture, this dish isn’t just another ground beef recipe — it’s a comforting tradition with every spoonful. Also, it’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and ready in under 30 minutes, making it a top pick for busy home cooks, weight-conscious eaters, and foodies who love bold, home-cooked meals.
Suggested: Vietnamese-Inspired Cabbage with Tofu
🌮 Classic Cuban Picadillo Recipe
This authentic Cuban Picadillo recipe is a flavorful one-pan ground beef dish simmered with tomatoes, olives, raisins, and spices — a budget-friendly family dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights. Bursting with rich, savory, and slightly sweet flavors, this easy ground beef recipe pairs beautifully with white rice, plantains, or tortillas. It’s a healthy, high-protein meal that’s also great for meal prep and low-cost weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
For the Picadillo:
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef (or turkey for a lighter version)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
- 1/3 cup green olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, adds warmth)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and softened. - Cook the Beef:
Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned and no longer pink. - Add Flavor:
Stir in tomato paste, cumin, paprika, cinnamon (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the beef with spices. - Simmer:
Pour in crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Add olives and raisins. Stir to combine and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes until thickened. - Adjust Seasoning:
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat. - Serve:
Garnish with cilantro and serve warm over rice, quinoa, or in tacos.
Notes
- Use lean meat to keep it healthy and reduce excess fat.
- Add potatoes or carrots for a heartier version.
- For a low-sodium meal, choose unsalted tomato products and rinse olives.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve Cuban Picadillo over white rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Pair with fried plantains or black beans for a traditional Cuban meal.
- Stuff into tacos, empanadas, or burritos for a fusion twist.
- Serve with a side of avocado salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
6Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 291Total Fat: 16gSaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 67mgSodium: 477mgCarbohydrates: 15gFiber: 3gSugar: 8gProtein: 24g
Related: Shrimp & Grits Recipes
🌎 What Is Picadillo? | The Heart of Cuban Comfort Food
Picadillo (pronounced pee-kah-DEE-yoh) is a traditional Latin American and Spanish dish made with ground beef, tomatoes, onions, garlic, peppers, and a blend of savory-sweet spices. It’s often served with white rice, fried plantains, or inside tacos and empanadas, making it a versatile meal loved across generations.
🥘 A Little History Behind Picadillo
The word Picadillo comes from the Spanish word “picar,” meaning “to mince” or “to chop.” That’s because the dish traditionally uses minced or ground meat cooked slowly with seasonings to create a rich, flavorful stew-like mixture.
Originating from Spain, Picadillo became a beloved staple in Cuba, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and the Philippines, each region adding its unique touch — from green olives and raisins in Cuban Picadillo to potatoes and carrots in Mexican versions.
It’s more than just food — it’s a comfort dish that tells the story of family, culture, and tradition.
🍅 Why Picadillo Is So Popular
✅ Budget-friendly meal idea that stretches a pound of ground beef
✅ High-protein, nutritious dinner that’s perfect for the whole family
✅ One-pan easy recipe that saves time and dishes
✅ Meal prep friendly — tastes even better the next day
✅ Comfort food with a healthy twist
🌮 Different Versions Around the World
- 🇨🇺 Cuban Picadillo: Ground beef simmered with tomatoes, olives, raisins, and warm spices — sweet, salty, and savory all in one bite.
- 🇲🇽 Mexican Picadillo: Includes potatoes, carrots, and chili powder for a heartier, slightly spicy version.
- 🇵🇷 Puerto Rican Picadillo: Made with sofrito, adobo, and capers — full of vibrant Caribbean flavor.
- 🇵🇭 Filipino Picadillo (Giniling): Often includes soy sauce, peas, and boiled eggs — an Asian-inspired twist on the classic.
Each variation proves that Picadillo is one of the most customizable and beloved comfort foods in the world.
In Cuba, Picadillo is often called “Cuban Hash” because it’s a quick, homey mixture of seasoned beef and veggies — perfect for busy weeknights or large family gatherings. It’s also a top-rated budget-friendly recipe in Latin households, costing just a few dollars per serving but tasting like a gourmet dish.
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🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need
Ready to make an authentic Cuban Picadillo? Below is the complete picadillo ingredients list — everything you need for this easy ground beef recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, and budget-friendly family meals.
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef — or ground turkey for a lighter, high-protein option
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (aromatic base)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (flavor booster)
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil (use extra virgin for flavor & health benefits)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (concentrated tomato richness)
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water (adjust for low-sodium diets)
- 1/3 cup green olives, sliced (pimento or manzanilla work well)
- 1/4 cup raisins (balances savory with a hint of natural sweetness)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional — authentic warm note)
- Salt & fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 medium potato, peeled & diced (for heartier Mexican/Puerto Rican style)
Substitutions, Dietary Options & Buying Advice
- Lower fat: Swap ground beef for lean ground turkey or 90/10 beef to reduce calories while keeping protein high.
- Low sugar / Keto: Omit raisins and serve over cauliflower rice — same savory profile, lower carbs.
- Vegetarian / Vegan: Use cooked lentils, crumbled tempeh, or plant-based ground meat; add extra mushrooms for umami.
- Olives: Rinse jarred olives if you want less salt; capers are a tangy alternative for a briny kick.
- Tomato options: Use fresh crushed tomatoes in season, or quality canned crushed tomatoes for convenience and consistent flavor.
For science-backed guidance on olive oil benefits and how to choose a healthy cooking oil (useful when deciding which oil to buy), check this resource from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health: Harvard — Olive Oil.
Related: Lobster Roll Recipe
🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions — Easy Ground Beef Picadillo (One-Pan Skillet)
Step 1 — Prep the aromatics (onion, pepper & garlic)
Heat 1–2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion, 1 chopped green bell pepper, and 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until softened and translucent — about 3–4 minutes. This builds the flavor base for your one-pan skillet picadillo (key for quick weeknight dinners).
Step 2 — Brown the ground beef (or turkey)
Add 1 lb lean ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option) to the pan. Break it up with a spatula and cook until no pink remains. Browning properly gives caramelization and savory depth to this budget-friendly meal.
Step 3 — Add spices & tomato paste to build flavor
Stir in 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika and ½ tsp cinnamon (optional). Toast spices 30–60 seconds to unlock aroma. This is the moment your picadillo becomes rich, smoky, and layered.
Step 4 — Add tomatoes, olives & raisins; simmer
Pour in 1 cup crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce) and ¼ cup beef broth/water. Stir in ⅓ cup sliced green olives and ¼ cup raisins. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes until the sauce thickens. The sweet-salty contrast (raisins + olives) is a signature of Cuban Picadillo.
Step 5 — Taste & adjust seasoning
Taste and season with salt and black pepper. Balance sweetness and acidity — if too acidic, add a pinch of sugar or a small knob of butter to round flavors.
Step 6 — Serve & garnish (decision-ready serving ideas)
Serve hot over steamed white rice, cauliflower rice (low-carb), or with fried plantains for an authentic Cuban meal. Garnish with chopped cilantro and a lime wedge.
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🍽️ Serving Suggestions — Best Pairings
Picadillo is a super yummy dish that you can enjoy in lots of different ways! You can put it on top of fluffy white rice like they do in Cuba, make quick tacos by using warm corn tortillas, or eat it with sweet fried plantains for a meal that’s perfect for the whole family. Here are some easy ideas to go with it, options that are low-carb and kids love, and some simple ways to prepare it ahead of time or for parties!
Top 5 Pairings — Choose based on your goal
1. Classic — White Rice & Black Beans
Authentic, affordable, and perfect for families. Best for: weeknight dinners, meal prep, budget-friendly meals.
2. Comfort — Fried Ripe Plantains (Tostones or Maduros)
Why choose: Adds sweet-salty contrast.
3. Low-Carb — Cauliflower Rice & Avocado
Keeps carbs low while staying high-protein.
4. Street-Style — Soft Tortillas / Arepas
Turn leftovers into tacos.
5. Bulk / Meal-Prep — Baked Potatoes or Stuffed Peppers
Make-ahead friendly; portion control and easy reheating.
Fast Side Recipes & Quick Prep Notes
5-minute Quick Salsa
Chop tomato, red onion, cilantro, squeeze lime, pinch salt—stir into a bright topper for tacos or rice bowls.
Oven-Roasted Plantain Rounds (Maduros)
Slice, toss with a tsp oil, roast 400°F/200°C for 12–15 min. Healthier than frying.
Meal-Prep Tip
Make a big batch of Picadillo, portion into microwave-safe containers with rice or cauliflower rice. Add a lime wedge and sliced avocado on serving day to keep fresh.
Related: Corn Chowder Recipe
🥘 Recipe Variations — Make Picadillo Your Way
Easy • One-pan recipes • High-protein optionsLove this Classic Cuban Picadillo, but want options? Below are chef-tested variations — from low-carb and keto to vegan and Puerto Rican. Each variation fits your family dinner, meal prep, or budget-friendly weeknight plans.
🌶️ Mexican Picadillo — Hearty & Comforting
Add diced potatoes, carrots and peas. Season with cumin, chili powder and a splash of lime.
🇵🇷 Puerto Rican Picadillo — Bold & Sofrito-forward
Use a sofrito base (green peppers, onion, cilantro, culantro), add adobo and a few capers.
🥦 Low-Carb / Keto Picadillo — Swap & Save Carbs
Skip raisins and potatoes. Serve over cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini.
🌱 Vegan Picadillo — Lentils & Umami
Replace ground beef with brown lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based mince. Use tomato paste, soy sauce, and smoked paprika for depth.
🍗 Turkey or Chicken Picadillo — Lighter & Lean
Swap in lean ground turkey or chicken for lower fat and calories.
🍯 Sweet & Savory Picadillo — Raisin & Olive Balance
Emphasize the raisins and use a touch of honey or balsamic for glazing.
Quick Guide
| Variation | Why Choose It | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Mexican Picadillo | Hearty, adds potatoes & veggies | Family dinners |
| Puerto Rican Picadillo | Sofrito-forward, bold flavor | Authentic Latin palates |
| Low-Carb / Keto | Cuts carbs, keeps protein high | Keto & weight-loss plans |
| Vegan | Plant-based, lower environmental impact | Vegans & flexitarians |
| Turkey / Chicken | Lean, lighter on calories | Health-focused persons |
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Frequently Asked Questions — Picadillo
Yes — Picadillo is a quick, one-pan dinner that takes about 35 minutes from start to finish. If you want a true “set-and-forget” option, brown the meat and sauté the vegetables in 10–15 minutes, then simmer 10–15 minutes.
Absolutely. Picadillo often tastes even better the next day because the flavors have time to meld. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to refresh the texture — ideal for meal prep ideas and high-protein lunches.
The classic Picadillo is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free tomato products and broth. For a keto or low-carb version, skip the raisins (for less sugar) and serve over cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps. Swap raisins for a small pinch of erythritol or chopped nuts if you miss the texture — great when you want low-carb dinner ideas without losing flavor.
Lean ground beef gives the most classic, rich flavor. Ground turkey or chicken are lighter, lower-fat options and still taste great when seasoned well. For plant-based diets, use cooked lentils or a quality plant-based crumble — both make excellent vegan picadillo alternatives and hold up well for meal prep and freezing.
Yes — Picadillo’s sweet-salty profile comes from raisins and olives but they’re optional. Swap raisins for chopped dried apricots or currents for similar sweetness, or omit entirely for a savory-only version. If you skip green olives, try capers or chopped roasted peppers for briny depth. These simple swaps help you tailor the dish to family tastes and dietary needs.
Classic pairings: white rice, black beans, and fried plantains. For a lighter plate, serve with cauliflower rice, a crisp avocado salad, or roasted vegetables. These combos turn Picadillo into a balanced family dinner or a hearty meal prep entrée.
Drain excess fat after browning the meat by tilting the pan and spooning it out or using a heatproof colander. You can also blot with a paper towel.
Cumin and smoked paprika are the backbone of the flavor; a touch of cinnamon adds warmth and balance. Tomato paste deepens umami. Fresh garlic and onion are essential. These simple spices deliver authentic Cuban Picadillo taste while keeping pantry costs low — perfect for budget-friendly family meals.
Yes. For Instant Pot: use the sauté function to brown the beef and veggies, then pressure-cook on high for 5 minutes and quick-release. For slow cooker: brown first, then cook on low for 4–6 hours. Both methods are great for hands-off cooking.
To appeal to kids: reduce the spice heat, chop veggies fine, and serve with plain rice or in tortillas. Mix in grated carrots or diced potatoes for familiar textures. You can also separate a small portion before adding olives/raisins if you’re unsure how they’ll react — practical choices for picky eaters.
Common pitfalls: (1) not browning the meat properly — you lose depth of flavor; (2) skipping tomato paste — reduces richness; (3) over-simmering until dry — aim for a saucy, spoonable texture. Taste and adjust salt at the end because tomatoes and olives change the seasoning.
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