Mexican Picadillo with Potatoes
A hearty and flavorful one-pan dish made with ground beef, tender golden potatoes, tomatoes, and warm spices—this comforting Mexican-style picadillo is perfect for busy weeknights and makes delicious leftovers.
- Author: Djihane
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Halal
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large tomato, finely chopped (or ½ cup canned diced tomatoes)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for depth)
- ½ cup beef broth or water
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Drain excess fat if needed, then add diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for 3–4 minutes.
- Add cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cinnamon (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the beef broth.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the flavors are well combined.
- Remove lid, increase heat to medium, and let the mixture reduce slightly for 3–5 minutes if needed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of chili flakes.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheats well for leftovers.
- Serve with rice, tortillas, or as a filling for tacos or empanadas.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/4 cups
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Mexican picadillo, ground beef and potatoes, one-pan dinner, weeknight meal, beef skillet