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Close-up of spiced ground beef with potatoes and tomatoes in a slow cooker, with a spoon sticking out from the side of the bowl, in a photorealistic style.

Mexican Picadillo

This cozy, flavor-packed Mexican Picadillo is a one-pan lifesaver! Ground beef, potatoes, and warm spices simmered to perfection—serve it over rice, in tacos, or however you like!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version
  • 1 onion diced
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 potatoes peeled and diced
  • 1 carrot shredded or diced
  • 1 bell pepper diced
  • 1 cup beef broth or veggie broth + a splash of soy sauce for extra umami
  • 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes (fire-roasted preferred)
  • ½ cup raisins optional but recommended!
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp oregano Mexican oregano preferred
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp oil olive or avocado

Instructions
 

  • Brown the Beef: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess grease if needed.
  • Sauté the Veggies: Stir in the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrot. Cook for 5 minutes until softened. Add potatoes and mix well.
  • Spice It Up: Add cumin, oregano, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat everything in flavor.
  • Simmer the Picadillo: Pour in the broth and tomatoes, stir, and bring to a simmer. Add raisins and let everything cook, covered, for 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally.
  • Serve & Enjoy: Spoon over rice, stuff into tacos, or eat it straight from the pan (no judgment!). Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado, or lime wedges.

Notes

  • Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat: Warm on the stove with a splash of broth or water.