There’s something magical about the rich flavors of picadillo that warms the heart and fills the belly. This classic dish, with its roots in Latin American and Spanish cuisine, is known for its delightful blend of spices and savory ingredients. If you’re ready to spice up your dinner routine, these easy recipes will take you on a culinary adventure!
Classic Cuban Picadillo

Easy Authentic Cuban Picadillo from A Sassy Spoon
Rating: 4.7. Ingredients: Stuffed sweet potatoes, stuffed peppers, de carne, ground beef, potato balls Total Time: 30 min.

Cuban Picadillo from Skinnytaste
Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: Lean ground beef, tomato sauce, green olives, red bell pepper, garlic Total Time: 35 min.

Classic Cuban-Style Picadillo from Allrecipes
Rating: 4.6. Ingredients: Lean ground beef, tomato sauce, green olives, green bell pepper, capers Total Time: 30 min.
Imagine a plate filled with tender ground beef simmered in a savory tomato sauce, accented by the sweet notes of raisins and the crunch of green olives. This recipe is a staple in Cuban households, bringing together the warmth of cumin and bay leaves with fresh bell peppers and onions. The contrast of sweet and savory makes it a beloved dish that’s sure to impress everyone at your dinner table.
What Makes It Special:
This classic version is not only hearty but also offers a beautiful balance of flavors. The addition of olives and raisins creates a delightful twist that elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary!
Mexican Picadillo with Potatoes

Mexican Picadillo Recipe from Chili Pepper Madness
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 55 min Total Time: 55 min.
Take a trip south of the border with this vibrant Mexican picadillo that features ground beef and tender potatoes. The spices in this version pop with flavor, thanks to the addition of chili powder and cumin, while the potatoes add a comforting, filling element. This dish is great for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering!
What Makes It Special:
This recipe stands out for its heartiness and the way it brings together classic Mexican spices. It’s a one-pot wonder that simplifies cooking while still delivering a fiesta of flavors!
Vegetarian Picadillo
Who says picadillo has to be all about meat? This vegetarian version swaps ground beef for lentils or chopped mushrooms, creating a nutritious and delicious alternative. With the same traditional spices and a touch of sweetness from the raisins, it’s a dish that even the meat-lovers won’t be able to resist.
What Makes It Special:
This recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy a lighter meal without sacrificing flavor. The textures and tastes in this dish make it a winner, ensuring everyone at the table leaves happy and satisfied!
Picadillo Empanadas

Cuban Picadillo from Skinnytaste
Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: Lean ground beef, tomato sauce, green olives, red bell pepper, garlic Total Time: 35 min.

Mexican Picadillo Recipe from Chili Pepper Madness
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Ground beef, hot sauce, olive oil, yellow potatoes, tomatoes Total Time: 55 min.

Quick & Easy Puerto Rican Picadillo from Domestic Gourmet
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Puerto rican sofrito, ground beef, tomato sauce, sweet peppers, green bell pepper
Imagine crispy golden pastry pockets filled with the deliciousness of picadillo! These empanadas are the perfect finger food for parties or a fun family dinner. The buttery crust combined with the savory filling makes these a real treat, and they’re surprisingly easy to make!
What Makes It Special:
These empanadas turn the classic picadillo into a portable snack that’s perfect for on-the-go enjoyment. They bring a fun twist to traditional picadillo, making it a hit at any gathering!
Slow Cooker Picadillo
Set it and forget it! This slow cooker picadillo is for those busy days when you want a home-cooked meal waiting for you when you get home. Just toss your ingredients in the slow cooker, let the magic happen, and come home to a house filled with the irresistible aroma of spices and savory goodness.
What Makes It Special:
The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish. It’s a hands-off approach that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort!
Picadillo-Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed Peppers With Rice (Cuban Ajies Rellenos) from A Sassy Spoon
Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: Ground turkey, bell peppers, tomato sauce, white rice, olive oil Total Time: 55 min.

Picadillo Stuffed Peppers from Food Network
Rating: 4.7. Ingredients: Ground beef, green olives, bell pepper, green bell pepper, red bell pepper Total Time: 1 hr 15 min.

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Picadillo from The View from Great Island
Rating: 4.3. Ingredients: Ground beef, stuffing, bell peppers, queso fresco, olive oil Total Time: 43 min.
Bright, colorful bell peppers stuffed to the brim with delicious picadillo make for a stunning and nutritious meal. This recipe not only offers a burst of flavor but also a pop of color on your plate, making dinner feel extra special. Each bite is a mix of the sweet bell pepper and the savory filling, creating a delightful experience!
What Makes It Special:
This dish is a fun and healthy way to serve picadillo, turning it into a complete meal. The presentation is sure to impress guests, making it perfect for special occasions or just a beautiful weeknight dinner!