There’s something so comforting about a dish that brings back memories of home-cooked meals shared with family. Mom’s Picadillo Con Papa is one of those recipes that warms your heart and fills your belly. It’s easy, quick to prepare, and oh-so-memorable! You’ll love how simple it is to whip up this hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love Mom’s Picadillo Con Papa (Ground Beef with Potatoes)
- Fast: You can have the main components prepped and in the skillet in about 20 minutes.
- Easy: It’s a simple “brown and simmer” method that even beginner cooks can master.
- Giftable: This is a sturdy dish that travels well, making it perfect for potlucks or as a “get well soon” meal.
- Crowd-pleasing: Even people who think they don’t like vegetables usually fall in love with this comforting version!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef – A staple protein that adds heartiness to the dish.
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced – They add texture and absorb all those delicious flavors.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – This provides a sweet base flavor when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Because adding garlic makes everything better!
- 1 bell pepper, chopped – For a pop of color and crunch.
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes – The juicy base that ties everything together.
- 1/2 cup green olives, sliced – They add a briny depth that’s simply irresistible.
- 1 tablespoon capers (optional) – A little extra zing, if you’re feeling adventurous.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin – To warm up the flavors with its earthy notes.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – For a subtle smokiness that enhances the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing and adding richness.
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional) – A fresh touch to brighten the dish.
How to Make Mom’s Picadillo Con Papa (Ground Beef with Potatoes)
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the diced potatoes, bell pepper, diced tomatoes (with their juice), olives, capers (if using), cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally.
- Once the potatoes are cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Substitutions & Additions
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter option.
- Swap in sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
- Add other veggies like carrots or peas for extra nutrition.
- For a spicy kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Tips for Success
- Be sure to sauté the onion and garlic until they are fragrant; this builds the foundation of flavor.
- Don’t rush the simmering process—allow the potatoes to cook until tender for the best texture.
- If you’re prepping ahead, you can chop the veggies the night before to save time.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together!
How to Store Mom’s Picadillo Con Papa (Ground Beef with Potatoes)
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave!
FAQs
- Can I make this dish vegetarian? Absolutely! Just substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.
- What can I serve with Picadillo Con Papa? It pairs wonderfully with rice or warm tortillas for a complete meal.
- Is this dish spicy? Not really! But you can adjust the spices to your liking if you want to add some heat.
- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Yes, fresh tomatoes work great too! Just make sure to chop them finely.
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to check out more delicious ideas by following my Pinterest account!
Mom’s Picadillo Con Papa (Ground Beef with Potatoes)
There's something so comforting about a dish that brings back memories of home-cooked meals shared with family. Mom’s Picadillo Con Papa is one of those recipes that warms your heart and fills your belly. It's easy, quick to prepare, and oh-so-memorable!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Step 2: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Step 3: Stir in the diced potatoes, bell pepper, diced tomatoes (with their juice), olives, capers (if using), cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Step 4: Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally.
- Step 5: Once the potatoes are cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Step 6: Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Notes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the dish for up to 3 months.