Name: Authentic & Flavorful Mexican Picadillo Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: US
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion, divided; 4 Roma tomatoes, halved; 3 cloves garlic; 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded, or more to taste; 1 tbs chicken granules, such as Knorr; 1/2 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano; 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 cup water, reserved from boiled tomatoes; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1 1/2 cups diced russet potatoes

Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Mexico with this vibrant Picadillo! This versatile dish, brimming with savory ground beef, aromatic spices, and tender potatoes, is a fiesta in every bite. Perfect as a standalone meal or as a filling for your favorite Mexican creations.

Follow The Directions

01

Step

Gather all your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process. (Prep time: 5 minutes)

02

Step

In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the ground beef and half of the diced onion. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spatula, until the onion is translucent and the beef is browned and crumbly. (Cook time: 5-7 minutes) Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drain any excess liquid.

03

Step

Meanwhile, in a separate pot, place the tomatoes, remaining half of the onion, garlic cloves, and jalapeño pepper. Add enough water to cover the ingredients. Bring to a boil and cook until the tomatoes have burst and the onion and jalapeño have softened. (Cook time: approximately 5 minutes)

04

Step

Using a slotted spoon, carefully transfer the boiled tomatoes, onion, garlic, and jalapeño to a blender. Add 1/2 cup of the reserved cooking water from the tomatoes, chicken granules, Mexican oregano, and ground cumin. Blend until smooth, creating a flavorful sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

05

Step

Add the diced potatoes to the skillet with the ground beef mixture. Cook, stirring frequently, for 4-5 minutes, allowing the potatoes to begin to soften.

06

Step

Pour the tomato mixture into the skillet with the ground beef and potatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender and the flavors have melded together beautifully. (Cook time: 3-5 minutes)

For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of smoked paprika to the tomato sauce.
Adjust the amount of jalapeño pepper to your spice preference. Remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor.
If you don't have chicken granules, you can substitute with chicken broth or bouillon.
Serve this Picadillo with warm tortillas, rice, beans, or your favorite toppings for a complete and satisfying meal.