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Picadillo
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Classic Cuban-Style Picadillo You’ll Instantly Love

Discoverhow to make Classic Cuban-Style Picadillo—a flavorful, sweet and savory groundbeef dish that's quick, comforting, and perfect for any night.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Cuban, Latin American
Calories: 390
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Here’s what you’ll need:
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing and building that flavorful base.
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped – adds sweetness and depth.
  • 1 green bell pepper chopped – classic in Cuban sofrito for color and flavor.
  • 3 cloves garlic minced – because every great dish starts with garlic.
  • 1½ pounds ground beef – go for lean if you prefer less grease.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin – brings warm earthy flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano – for that herbal Cuban touch.
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – optional but adds a subtle warmth.
  • ½ cup tomato sauce – creates a rich savory base.
  • ¼ cup water or beef broth – for just the right consistency.
  • ⅓ cup green olives sliced – salty, briny bites that balance the sweetness.
  • ¼ cup raisins – they plump up and add a lovely hint of sweetness.
  • Salt and black pepper to taste – season to your liking.
  • 1 bay leaf – optional but adds an extra layer of flavor.
Optional add-ins: A handful of peas, diced potatoes, or a splash of vinegar can take this dish in fun new directions.

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions:
    Heat the olive oil.
    1. In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Give it a minute to warm up before adding your aromatics.
    Sauté the sofrito base.
    1. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant. Then toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
    Brown the ground beef.
    1. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink—about 7–8 minutes. Drain any excess grease if needed.
    Season and spice.
    1. Stir in the cumin, oregano, cinnamon (if using), salt, and pepper. Toast the spices with the meat for about a minute to wake up their flavors.
    Simmer with sauce.
    1. Pour in the tomato sauce and water (or broth). Add the bay leaf, then stir everything together. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
    Add the sweet and salty twist.
    1. Mix in the sliced green olives and raisins. Let the mixture simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
    Taste and adjust.
    1. Give your Picadillo a taste—add more salt or a splash of vinegar if you want extra zing. Then remove the bay leaf before serving.

    Notes

    Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
    Nutrient Amount
    Calories 390 kcal
    Total Fat 21g
    Saturated Fat 6g
    Protein 26g
    Carbohydrates 20g
    Sugar 7g
    Fiber 2g
    Sodium 690mg