Mom’s Picadillo Con Papa. Ground Beef with Potatoes

Picadillo Con Papa is a beloved comfort food found in many Latin American homes. This simple yet flavorful dish combines seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, tomatoes, and aromatic spices into a hearty meal that’s perfect served with rice, warm tortillas, or beans. Just like Mom used to make, it’s affordable, satisfying, and packed with homemade flavor.

Prep Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings

6 servings

Ingredients

• 1½ pounds ground beef
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth or water
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
3. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

1. Add the onion and bell pepper to the beef.
2. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for another 3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Seasonings

1. Stir in the diced potatoes.
2. Add cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well to coat everything evenly.

Step 4: Simmer

1. Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth.
2. Bring to a gentle boil.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender and the sauce has thickened.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

1. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
2. Stir in fresh cilantro if desired.
3. Serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

• Over fluffy white rice
• With warm flour or corn tortillas
• Alongside refried beans
• Topped with sliced avocado
• With a simple green salad

Tips for the Best Picadillo

• Dice the potatoes small so they cook evenly.
• Use lean ground beef for less grease.
• Add peas, carrots, or corn for extra vegetables.
• For a spicy version, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Let it simmer uncovered for the last few minutes if you prefer a thicker sauce.

Storage

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 23g
• Fiber: 3g