Mom’s Picadillo Con Papa. Ground Beef with Potatoes

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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

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