If you have ever fallen in love with the rich layers of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors all mingling together in one hearty dish, then you are in for a treat with this Picadillo: Savory Ground Beef with Tomatoes, Olives, and Raisins Recipe. This classic comfort meal brings together tender ground beef simmered with bright tomatoes, briny olives, and sweet raisins, creating an irresistible medley that bursts with personality. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner or a lively gathering with friends, this dish delivers a warm, satisfying experience that’s both familiar and exciting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple but absolutely essential ingredients that come together in harmony to build the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Each component plays a vital role, making the cooking process straightforward yet truly rewarding.
- 1 lb lean ground beef: The hearty protein base that soaks up all the wonderful seasonings and adds rich flavor.
- 1 large yellow onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and depth when sautéed to tender perfection.
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a fragrant punch that brightens every bite.
- 1 cup red or green bell peppers, chopped: Offers a fresh crunch and a pop of color to the dish.
- 1 cup canned tomato sauce: Brings a luscious, slightly tangy base that ties all the ingredients together.
- 1/2 cup green olives, chopped: Adds a salty bite that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
- 1/4 cup raisins: A surprising jewel of sweetness that balances the savory notes dramatically.
- 1 tsp cumin: Infuses the dish with a warm, earthy aroma typical of traditional Picadillo.
- 1 tsp paprika: Enhances color and delivers a gentle smoky flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to perfectly round out the flavors.
How to Make Picadillo: Savory Ground Beef with Tomatoes, Olives, and Raisins Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, allowing them to soften gently until translucent and fragrant. This creates a flavorful foundation that brings sweetness and aroma to the dish, awakening your senses right from the start.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Turn up the heat just a bit and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it thoroughly, breaking it apart with a spatula so it browns evenly. This step about 6 to 8 minutes is crucial because perfectly browned beef brings out the meaty depth and locks in juices that make every mouthful tender and juicy.
Step 3: Add Bell Peppers with Seasonings
Next, stir in the chopped bell peppers along with salt and pepper to taste. Sauté everything together for about 5 minutes until the peppers soften but still retain a bit of their crispness. The peppers contribute a tasty freshness and vibrant tone that brighten the rich blend of beef and spices.
Step 4: Combine Tomato Sauce, Spices, Olives, and Raisins
This is when the magic happens. Pour in the tomato sauce, sprinkle the cumin and paprika evenly, then add the chopped olives and raisins. Let the mixture simmer gently for around 10 minutes, allowing all those flavors to marry beautifully. The tomatoes add warmth, the olives a salty tang, and the raisins a hint of sweetness that makes this Picadillo truly one of a kind.
Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serving
Before serving, give your Picadillo a taste test to adjust salt or pepper if needed. Serve it hot, spooned generously over fluffy rice, or wrapped in warm tortillas for a comforting, soulful meal that everyone will love.
How to Serve Picadillo: Savory Ground Beef with Tomatoes, Olives, and Raisins Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or parsley on top adds a fresh herbal note and a burst of color. A wedge of lime on the side introduces zest and brightness that complements the hearty richness of the Picadillo.
Side Dishes
Rice is the classic choice, especially fluffy white or yellow rice, as it soaks up the flavorful sauce perfectly. You can also serve it alongside black beans or a crisp green salad to balance the savory warmth with contrasting textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stuffing your Picadillo inside soft corn or flour tortillas, folding it into empanadas, or even layering it in a casserole with cheese and baked until bubbly for a twist on traditional comfort food. This recipe is incredibly versatile and adapts beautifully to whatever creative presentation you envision.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even more delicious when reheated the next day.
Freezing
Picadillo freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. This way, you always have a quick, flavorful meal ready whenever you need it.
Reheating
Reheat your Picadillo gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water if it seems dry. Microwaving works well, too — just cover to keep moisture in and stir halfway through to heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! While traditional Picadillo uses ground beef, ground turkey or chicken can make a lighter version with terrific flavor — just adjust the cooking time to ensure the meat is fully cooked and tender.
Are the raisins really necessary? What do they add?
Yes, the raisins are key because they bring a subtle sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the salty olives and savory beef. They give Picadillo its signature balance of flavors that make it so memorable.
Can I make Picadillo in advance for a party?
Definitely. Picadillo tastes even better after sitting for a few hours or overnight as the flavors meld together. It’s perfect for preparing ahead when you want to entertain without last-minute stress.
What can I serve with Picadillo for a gluten-free meal?
Picadillo itself is naturally gluten-free. Serve it over rice or with gluten-free corn tortillas, and pair it with fresh vegetables or beans to keep your meal completely free of gluten.
Is this recipe spicy? How can I adjust the heat?
This Picadillo is mild and comforting as written. If you prefer more heat, add some chopped fresh chili peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper when adding the spices. To keep it mild, simply omit any hot additions.
Final Thoughts
Making this Picadillo: Savory Ground Beef with Tomatoes, Olives, and Raisins Recipe is like welcoming a warm hug from the kitchen. It’s easy, forgiving, and full of flavors that hit all the right notes. Once you try it, you’ll see why this dish has stolen hearts across tables everywhere. So gather those ingredients, get cooking, and share this delicious experience with your loved ones — trust me, it’s going to be a favorite in your home too!
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Picadillo: Savory Ground Beef with Tomatoes, Olives, and Raisins Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Latin American
Description
A traditional Latin American picadillo recipe featuring lean ground beef simmered with onions, garlic, bell peppers, olives, raisins, and warm spices. This flavorful dish is perfect served over rice or wrapped in tortillas for a comforting, savory meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup red or green bell peppers, chopped
Other Ingredients
- 1 cup canned tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup green olives, chopped
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Brown the beef: Increase the heat slightly and add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned evenly, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add bell peppers: Stir in the chopped red or green bell peppers along with salt and pepper to taste. Continue sautéing until the peppers soften, approximately 5 minutes.
- Add sauce and seasonings: Pour in the tomato sauce and add cumin, paprika, raisins, and chopped green olives. Stir well and reduce heat to low. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the picadillo and adjust seasoning as needed with additional salt and pepper. Serve hot over rice or wrapped in warm tortillas.
Notes
- For a slightly sweeter picadillo, increase the raisins to 1/3 cup.
- Green olives provide a salty contrast; use pimentos-stuffed olives for extra depth.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Picadillo is great as a filling for empanadas or tacos in addition to rice.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and freeze nicely for up to 2 months.
