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–+ servings

Mexican Picadillo Recipe

Author: Evelyn Petrie
A flavorful and hearty traditional dish featuring seasoned ground beef, potatoes, and spices, perfect for family meals or weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Ground Beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
  • 2 medium Potatoes, peeled and diced (into ½-inch cubes)
  • 1 medium Carrot, peeled and diced
  • ½ cup Frozen Peas
  • 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 2 Roma Tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 1 can Tomato Sauce
  • 1 cup Beef or Chicken Broth
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil for sautéing
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
  • ½ teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (optional)
  • 1-2 Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce (optional), chopped
  • Salt and Black Pepper to taste
  • Fresh Cilantro, chopped for garnish
  • Lime Wedges for serving

Instructions
 

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed and season with salt and pepper. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  • Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato sauce, cumin, paprika, oregano, and cinnamon. Stir well and cook for 5 minutes until the tomatoes break down and the mixture is aromatic. If using, add chipotle peppers for spice.
  • Return the browned beef to the skillet. Add diced potatoes, carrots, and broth or water. Stir to combine. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes and carrots are tender.
  • Stir in the peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
  • Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve hot with lime wedges on the side.

Notes

  • Optimize browning by spreading beef evenly in the pan before stirring.
  • Adjust spice with chipotle gradually to control heat.
  • Diced potatoes should be evenly cut for consistent cooking.
  • Add lime juice before serving for brightness.
  • Can be stored in airtight containers for weekly meal prep.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 500mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4g
Keyword Mexican Picadillo
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