Picadillo Tacos are a delicious and flavorful way to enjoy a traditional Mexican dish in a fun, taco-style format. Picadillo, a savory mix of ground beef, tomatoes, potatoes, and warm spices, offers a perfect balance of heartiness and warmth. The filling is both comforting and versatile, often including raisins or olives for a unique sweet-and-savory contrast. Served in soft or crispy taco shells and topped with fresh ingredients like cilantro, onions, and avocado, Picadillo Tacos make for an easy weeknight dinner that’s packed with flavor and texture.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large potato, peeled and diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
- 1/4 cup green olives, sliced (optional)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8-10 taco shells or soft tortillas
- Fresh cilantro, diced onions, avocado, and lime wedges (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the onions and garlic: Add the diced onion and garlic to the beef, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the potatoes and spices: Stir in the diced potatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Simmer the picadillo: Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir in the raisins and olives (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Assemble the tacos: Warm the taco shells or tortillas and spoon the picadillo mixture into each. Top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime.
Picadillo Tacos are a flavorful and satisfying meal, combining the rich, spiced filling with fresh toppings for a delicious taco experience that everyone will love!
