Yesss 🤤 Picadillo con papa — cozy, savory, a little saucy, and perfect with rice.
Here’s a classic, home-style version (Latin / Caribbean–style), easy and super comforting.
🍲 Picadillo con Papa
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 is ideal)
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled & diced
- 1 cup tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
- ½ cup water or beef broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Optional (very traditional):
- ¼ cup green olives, sliced
- 1 tbsp capers
- 1–2 tbsp raisins (trust it 😄)
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Sauté the base
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook onion and bell pepper until soft, about 4 minutes.
Add garlic and cook 30 seconds. - Brown the beef
Add ground beef. Break it up and cook until browned.
Drain excess fat if needed. - Season
Add cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Stir well. - Add potatoes & sauce
Stir in diced potatoes, tomato sauce, and water/broth. - Simmer
Cover and cook on low-medium for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender and sauce thickens. - Finish
Stir in olives, capers, and raisins (if using). Simmer 5 more minutes.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
How to serve 🍽️
- Over white rice (classic)
- With fried plantains
- Inside empanadas or tacos
- With a fried egg on top (🔥)
Variations
- Mexican-style: add diced tomatoes, chili powder, and a little jalapeño
- Cuban-style: olives, raisins, bay leaf are essential
- Puerto Rican-style: add sofrito and a splash of adobo
If you want a slow-cooker, Instant Pot, or chicken picadillo version, say the word.
