Ever find yourself in a dinner rut, craving something flavorful yet easy to whip up? Look no further! Our roundup of 18 Delicious Picadillo Recipes for Every Occasion is here to spice up your meal planning. From quick weeknight dinners to hearty comfort food, these versatile dishes promise to delight your taste buds and simplify your cooking routine. Dive in and discover your next favorite meal!
Classic Cuban Picadillo

Unlock the flavors of Cuba with this hearty Classic Cuban Picadillo, a savory ground beef dish simmered with olives and raisins for a perfect balance of sweet and salty.
Ingredients
- For the beef: 1 lb ground beef, 1 tbsp olive oil
- For the sauce: 1 small onion diced, 1 green bell pepper diced, 2 garlic cloves minced, 1/2 cup tomato sauce, 1/4 cup dry white wine, 1/2 cup pitted green olives sliced, 1/4 cup raisins, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 lb ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Add 1 small diced onion and 1 diced green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in 1/2 cup tomato sauce and 1/4 cup dry white wine. Stir to combine.
- Add 1/2 cup sliced green olives, 1/4 cup raisins, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Stir well.
- Reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Master the art of this dish by serving it over white rice or stuffing it into empanadas for a twist. The picadillo should be moist with a rich, complex flavor profile from the olives and raisins.
Mexican Picadillo with Potatoes

Filling and flavorful, this Mexican Picadillo with Potatoes is a hearty dish perfect for any meal. It combines ground beef, potatoes, and a blend of spices for a satisfying bite.
Ingredients
- For the picadillo:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Add the onion and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the potatoes, tomato sauce, water, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender.
- Uncover and cook for an additional 5 minutes to thicken the sauce if needed.
Every bite offers a mix of tender potatoes and savory beef, spiced just right. Serve it over rice or stuffed in tacos for a versatile meal.
Picadillo Stuffed Peppers

Great for a hearty dinner, these Picadillo Stuffed Peppers combine savory meat and sweet peppers in one dish.
Ingredients
- For the filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup sliced green olives
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- For the peppers:
- 4 large bell peppers, tops cut off and seeds removed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Add onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook until onion is soft, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, raisins, olives, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Place bell peppers in a baking dish. Fill each pepper with the beef mixture.
- Cover dish with foil. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil. Sprinkle cheese over peppers. Bake uncovered for 5 more minutes.
Once baked, the peppers are tender yet hold their shape. The filling is rich with a hint of sweetness from the raisins. Serve with a side of rice for a complete meal.
Easy Picadillo Tacos

Tacos get a hearty upgrade with this easy picadillo filling, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Ingredients
– For the picadillo: 1 lb ground beef, 1/2 cup diced onion, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1/2 cup diced bell pepper, 1/2 cup tomato sauce, 1/4 cup sliced green olives, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, salt to taste. – For serving: 8 corn tortillas, 1/2 cup chopped cilantro, 1 lime cut into wedges.
Instructions
1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Tip: Drain excess fat for a lighter dish. 2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes. 3. Stir in the tomato sauce, green olives, apple cider vinegar, cumin, and oregano. Season with salt. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Tip: The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld. 4. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds per side. Tip: Keep them warm in a towel until serving. 5. Serve the picadillo in tortillas, topped with cilantro and a squeeze of lime. The picadillo is savory with a hint of tang from the olives and vinegar. Try serving with a side of black beans for a complete meal.
Picadillo Empanadas

Make these Picadillo Empanadas for a flavorful twist on a classic. Perfect for any meal, they’re packed with savory goodness.
Ingredients
- For the filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced green bell peppers
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup green olives, sliced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- For the dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1/4 cup cold water
- For frying:
- 2 cups vegetable oil
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Add onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are soft, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in tomato sauce, olives, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat.
- In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add water, 1 tbsp at a time, until dough comes together. Knead lightly, then rest for 15 minutes.
- Roll dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into 4-inch circles.
- Place 1 tbsp filling on each circle. Fold over, seal edges with a fork.
- Heat oil to 350°F in a deep fryer. Fry empanadas until golden, about 3 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels. Serve warm.
Enjoy the crispy crust and juicy filling of these empanadas. Try serving with a side of avocado crema for extra flavor.
Healthy Turkey Picadillo

Tasty, lean, and packed with flavor, this Healthy Turkey Picadillo is a weeknight savior. Ground turkey meets a vibrant mix of spices and veggies for a dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Picadillo:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup green olives, sliced
- 1 tbsp capers
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground turkey. Cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Tip: Ensure the turkey is fully browned for maximum flavor.
- Add onion and bell pepper. Cook until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in garlic, cumin, oregano, and cinnamon. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Tip: Toasting the spices releases their essential oils, enhancing the dish’s aroma.
- Pour in tomato sauce and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Add olives and capers. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Tip: The picadillo should thicken slightly but remain saucy.
- Season with salt if needed.
Serve this picadillo over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option or stuff it into whole wheat tortillas for a hearty wrap. The combination of sweet spices, briny olives, and capers creates a complex flavor profile that’s irresistibly delicious.
Picadillo Meatballs

Bold flavors and simple steps make these Picadillo Meatballs a weeknight winner. Ground beef meets sweet raisins and briny olives for a twist on the classic.
Ingredients
For the meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup green olives, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, raisins, olives, egg, breadcrumbs, 1 tsp cumin, and salt. Mix until just combined.
- Shape mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Place on prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, or until browned.
- While meatballs bake, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic. Cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, and 1 tsp cumin. Bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add baked meatballs to the skillet. Simmer in sauce for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
- Tip: For even browning, rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking.
- Tip: Soak raisins in warm water for 10 minutes before adding to the meat mixture for extra plumpness.
- Tip: Use a cookie scoop to form uniformly sized meatballs for even cooking.
Unbelievably tender meatballs with a sweet and savory sauce that clings perfectly. Serve over rice or stuff into a crusty roll for a hearty sandwich.
Picadillo Pizza

Here’s a twist on pizza night that’ll shake up your routine. Picadillo Pizza combines the hearty flavors of traditional picadillo with the crispy, cheesy goodness of pizza.
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm water (110°F)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- For the picadillo topping:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup green olives, sliced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt to taste
- For assembling:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 475°F.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar. Add yeast and warm water. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead dough on a floured surface for 5 minutes until smooth. Tip: Dough should be slightly sticky but not stick to your hands.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.
- While dough rises, brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add onions, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in tomato sauce, olives, cumin, oregano, and salt. Simmer for 10 minutes. Tip: The mixture should be thick but not dry.
- Roll out dough on a floured surface to a 12-inch circle. Transfer to a greased pizza pan.
- Spread picadillo mixture over dough. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly. Tip: For a crispier crust, bake directly on the oven rack.
Kitchen aromas will hint at the savory beef and melty cheese awaiting beneath. Serve slices with a side of sour cream or avocado for a creamy contrast.
Picadillo Pasta Bake

Here’s a hearty Picadillo Pasta Bake that combines comfort with a twist. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- For the pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- For the picadillo:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup green olives, sliced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt to taste
- For the topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Boil penne pasta in salted water with olive oil for 8 minutes, then drain. Tip: Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water for sauce consistency.
- In a skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat for 5 minutes.
- Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for 3 minutes until soft.
- Stir in tomato sauce, olives, cumin, oregano, and salt. Simmer for 5 minutes. Tip: Add reserved pasta water if the mixture is too thick.
- Combine cooked pasta with picadillo mixture. Transfer to a baking dish.
- Sprinkle cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs evenly on top.
- Bake for 20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. Tip: Broil for the last 2 minutes for extra crispiness.
Velvety cheese melts into the savory picadillo, creating a rich texture. Serve with a side of avocado salad for a fresh contrast.
Picadillo Quesadillas

Zesty and satisfying, Picadillo Quesadillas blend savory ground beef with sweet raisins and briny olives for a quick meal. Perfect for weeknights, they’re a crowd-pleaser with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
- For the Picadillo:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup sliced green olives
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- For the Quesadillas:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, raisins, olives, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Heat a clean skillet over medium heat. Brush one side of a tortilla with vegetable oil and place it oil-side down in the skillet.
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup of cheese over half of the tortilla. Top with 1/4 of the picadillo mixture, then fold the tortilla over. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden and the cheese melts. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
- Tip: For extra crispiness, press down lightly on the quesadilla with a spatula while cooking.
- Tip: Let the quesadillas sit for a minute before cutting to allow the cheese to set slightly.
- Tip: Serve with a side of sour cream or guacamole for added richness.
Perfectly crispy on the outside with a gooey, flavorful filling, these quesadillas are a hit. Try serving them with a fresh salsa for a bright contrast.
Slow Cooker Picadillo

Just when you thought your slow cooker couldn’t get any more versatile, here comes a dish that’s as hearty as it is hassle-free. Slow Cooker Picadillo is a flavorful, one-pot wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- For the meat mixture:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup diced green bell peppers
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- For the sauce:
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup pimento-stuffed green olives, sliced
- 2 tbsp capers, drained
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Transfer the beef to the slow cooker. Add onions, green bell peppers, and garlic.
- In a bowl, mix diced tomatoes, olives, capers, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour over the meat mixture in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Tip: For a richer flavor, let it sit for 10 minutes after cooking before serving.
- Tip: If the mixture seems too liquid, remove the lid and cook on HIGH for the last 30 minutes.
- Tip: Serve over rice or stuff into bell peppers for a creative twist.
Key to its appeal is the tender beef mingled with the tangy olives and capers, creating a balance of flavors. Perfect for tacos or as a standalone dish, it’s a versatile recipe that promises satisfaction.
Picadillo Soup

Great for a hearty meal, Picadillo Soup combines ground beef, potatoes, and tomatoes in a savory broth. This dish is a comforting blend of flavors that’s easy to make.
Ingredients
- For the soup base:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- For the vegetables:
- 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- For seasoning:
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add 1 lb ground beef. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Tip: Drain excess fat for a lighter soup.
- Add 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in 1 tsp ground cumin and 1/2 tsp dried oregano. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Pour in 4 cups beef broth and 1 can diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil.
- Add 2 cubed potatoes and 1 diced carrot. Reduce heat to simmer. Cook for 15 minutes.
- Tip: The potatoes should be fork-tender but not mushy.
- Stir in 1/2 cup frozen peas. Cook for 5 more minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust as needed.
- Tip: Let the soup sit for 10 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
Zesty and satisfying, this Picadillo Soup has a rich broth with tender vegetables. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.
Picadillo Stuffed Zucchini

Dive into a hearty meal with Picadillo Stuffed Zucchini, a perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors packed into tender zucchini boats. This dish is a straightforward, satisfying option for any weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- For the filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup sliced green olives
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- For the zucchini boats:
- 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Scoop out the centers of the zucchini halves to create boats, leaving a 1/4-inch border. Brush with olive oil and set aside.
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, raisins, olives, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until flavors meld.
- Fill each zucchini boat with the picadillo mixture. Top with shredded cheese if using.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until zucchini is tender.
- Broil for 2-3 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly, if using.
Keep in mind the zucchini boats should be tender but still hold their shape. The picadillo offers a delightful contrast of sweet raisins and briny olives. Serve with a side of rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Picadillo and Rice Casserole

Unlock the flavors of a comforting Picadillo and Rice Casserole with this straightforward recipe. Perfect for weeknights, it combines savory and sweet in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Picadillo
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 1/4 cup green olives, sliced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cinnamon
– Salt to taste
For the Rice
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
For the Topping
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft, about 3 minutes.
3. Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
4. Stir in tomato sauce, raisins, olives, cumin, cinnamon, and salt. Simmer for 5 minutes.
5. In a bowl, mix cooked rice with butter and cilantro.
6. Layer the rice mixture in a baking dish. Top with the picadillo mixture.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
8. Bake for 20 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
9. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Kick up the comfort with this casserole’s rich, melty cheese and tender beef. The raisins and olives add a surprising twist. Serve with a side of avocado slices for extra creaminess.
Spicy Picadillo Nachos

Fancy a twist on classic nachos? Spicy Picadillo Nachos pack a punch with bold flavors and easy prep. Perfect for game day or a quick dinner fix.
Ingredients
- For the picadillo:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup green olives, sliced
- Salt to taste
- For assembling:
- 1 bag tortilla chips
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 jalapeño, sliced
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, oregano, and salt. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Pour in tomato sauce and add green olives. Simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Tip: For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Spoon picadillo over the chips. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 5-7 minutes until cheese is melted. Tip: Watch closely to prevent chips from burning.
- Remove from oven. Drizzle with sour cream. Garnish with cilantro and jalapeño slices. Tip: Serve immediately for the best texture.
Ready to dig in? The crispy chips, melty cheese, and spicy picadillo create a irresistible combo. Try adding avocado slices for a creamy contrast.
Picadillo Sliders

These Picadillo Sliders are a crowd-pleaser, blending savory and sweet flavors in a bite-sized package. Try them for your next gathering.
Ingredients
- For the picadillo:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup sliced green olives
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt to taste
- For assembling:
- 12 slider buns
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Add onions, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are soft, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in tomato sauce, raisins, olives, cumin, oregano, and salt. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Slice slider buns in half horizontally. Place bottom halves on a baking sheet.
- Spoon picadillo onto each bun bottom. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Place top halves of buns over the cheese. Bake for 5 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
- Serve warm. The sliders are juicy with a hint of sweetness from the raisins and a tang from the olives.
Best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, these sliders offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures. For an extra kick, add a slice of jalapeño before baking.
Picadillo Breakfast Hash

Nothing starts the day like a hearty Picadillo Breakfast Hash. This dish combines savory ground beef, sweet raisins, and briny olives for a flavor-packed morning meal.
Ingredients
- For the hash:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup green olives, sliced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Salt to taste
- For serving:
- 4 eggs
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Break it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Add onion and bell pepper. Cook until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in garlic, raisins, olives, cumin, and cinnamon. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Season with salt. Mix well.
- Make 4 wells in the hash. Crack an egg into each well.
- Cover the skillet. Cook until eggs are set, about 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Outstanding textures and flavors make this hash a morning favorite. Serve with warm tortillas or avocado slices for extra delight.
Picadillo Shepherd’s Pie

Ready to elevate your comfort food game? This Picadillo Shepherd’s Pie combines savory ground beef with a sweet and spicy tomato sauce, topped with creamy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
- For the filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup green olives, sliced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Salt to taste
- For the topping:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 7 minutes.
- Stir in raisins, olives, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, and cinnamon. Simmer for 10 minutes. Season with salt.
- Meanwhile, boil potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain.
- Mash potatoes with milk and butter until smooth. Season with salt.
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Transfer beef mixture to a baking dish. Spread mashed potatoes over the top.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden.
Every bite offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Conclusion
Variety is the spice of life, and our roundup of 18 Delicious Picadillo Recipes offers just that! Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, there’s a recipe here to delight every palate. We’d love to hear which one becomes your favorite—drop us a comment below. Loved this collection? Share the culinary inspiration by pinning this article on Pinterest. Happy cooking!