Cuban Picadillo is a rich, savory-sweet ground beef dish that’s brimming with bold Latin flavors and comforting textures. A traditional staple in Cuban kitchens, picadillo takes humble ingredients—ground beef, onions, bell pepper, and garlic—and elevates them with an irresistible mix of spices, briny olives, and sweet raisins. This combination of sweet, salty, and tangy elements makes Cuban picadillo incredibly unique and memorable. It’s a dish that feels hearty and homey while being deeply aromatic and satisfying.
Traditionally served over fluffy white rice, picadillo is incredibly versatile—you can use it as a filling for empanadas, tacos, or stuffed peppers, or enjoy it with fried plantains for an authentic Cuban-style meal. The fire-roasted tomatoes and olive brine infuse the beef with layers of depth, while the raisins add just a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity and spice. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or meal prepping for the week, Cuban Picadillo delivers bold flavor and serious comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Sweet, salty, tangy, and savory—all in one dish
• Perfect over rice, in tacos, or as an empanada filling
• One-pan recipe for easy cooking and cleanup
• Classic Cuban flavors that are comforting and bold
Ingredients
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried marjoram
• 1 (15-ounce) can fire-roasted tomatoes (undrained)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• ½ cup chopped Spanish green olives
• ½ cup olive brine (from the green olives)
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ cup raisins, chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef.
Cook for 2–3 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon.
Add the chopped onion and cook for another 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
Add the red bell pepper and continue cooking until the onions are translucent and the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain off any excess grease if needed.
Step 2: Add Aromatics and Spices
Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, oregano, and marjoram.
Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to bloom the spices and release their aroma.
Step 3: Simmer with Tomatoes and Flavorings
Add the undrained can of fire-roasted tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet.
Stir to combine, then add the chopped green olives, olive brine, bay leaf, and chopped raisins.
Mix thoroughly and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Simmer and Finish
Cover the skillet and let the picadillo simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once the mixture has thickened and the flavors have melded, remove the bay leaf.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the picadillo hot over steamed white rice, or use it to fill empanadas, tacos, or stuffed peppers.
Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Tips for Success
• Use fire-roasted tomatoes for added depth: They give the dish a slight smokiness that complements the briny olives and sweet raisins.
• Chop the raisins: This helps them blend seamlessly into the mixture and avoids large bites of sweetness.
• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, use fewer raisins or replace them with chopped dried apricots or none at all.
• Use high-quality olives: Spanish green olives (manzanilla) add an essential salty note that defines this dish.
• Let it sit: Like many stews, Cuban picadillo tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
Storage Options
• Refrigerator: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freezer: Picadillo freezes beautifully. Store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Meal prep tip: Make a double batch and portion it with rice into containers for ready-to-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Cuban Picadillo is a dish that celebrates the beauty of flavor contrast and simplicity. With its deep seasoning, rich tomato base, and signature sweet-salty balance, it’s a dish you’ll return to again and again—especially when you need something both comforting and full of personality.
