Go Back

How to Make Mexican Picadillo: Simple Recipe & Variations

Authentic Mexican Picadillo — a quick, flavorful ground beef and potato dish simmered with tomatoes, garlic, and spices. Ready in just 35 minutes, this classic Mexican recipe delivers bold, comforting flavors perfect for tacos, rice bowls, or weeknight dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 -6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 290
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon oil olive, vegetable, or avocado
  • 1/2 medium onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey or plant-based alternative
  • 2 medium potatoes diced small
  • 1 1/2 cups diced tomatoes canned or fresh
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup water or beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro optional

Method
 

  1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté 30 seconds.
  2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed.
  3. Stir in diced tomatoes, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Mix well and let cook for 1 minute to develop flavor.
  4. Add diced potatoes and stir to coat evenly in the mixture.
  5. Pour in water or broth, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Remove bay leaf and adjust salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired and serve warm.

Notes

Serve with rice, tortillas, or as a taco filling. For a leaner version, use ground turkey or cauliflower instead of potatoes. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.