If you’re searching for a hearty, comforting, and flavorful dinner, look no further than Mexican Picadillo with Homemade Flour Tortillas. This traditional dish blends seasoned ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant spices, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and steeped in culture. Paired with freshly made flour tortillas, picadillo becomes more than just food—it becomes an experience.
Whether you’re aiming to recreate your grandmother’s recipe or explore the flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine, this guide offers the perfect balance of taste, tradition, and practicality. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about making the best Mexican picadillo and soft, chewy homemade tortillas from scratch.
What is Mexican Picadillo?
Mexican picadillo is a classic ground beef stew infused with spices, tomatoes, and vegetables. It’s a versatile recipe, commonly served with rice, used as a taco filling, or spooned inside empanadas. Each region of Mexico has its own twist, but most versions include ground beef, diced potatoes, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and green olives.
The term picadillo comes from the Spanish word “picar,” meaning “to mince” or “to chop,” referencing the fine texture of the meat and vegetables.
Why Mexican Picadillo is a Perfect Family Meal
- Affordable and Filling: Ground beef and potatoes are budget-friendly and go a long way.
- Quick to Prepare: The entire dish can be ready in under 45 minutes.
- Nutritious and Balanced: With protein, carbs, and veggies, it’s a well-rounded dinner.
- Great for Leftovers: It tastes even better the next day and is freezer-friendly.
Ingredients for Authentic Mexican Picadillo
To make this flavor-packed Mexican ground beef recipe, you’ll need:
- 1½ pounds ground beef (80/20 preferred)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 Roma tomatoes, diced
- 1 large russet potato, peeled and diced
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- ½ cup frozen peas or diced carrots (optional)
- ¼ cup green olives, sliced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup water or beef broth
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step: How to Make Mexican Picadillo
1. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add diced onions and cook until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
Add ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up into small pieces. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
3. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes to let the flavors blend.
4. Mix in Potatoes and Simmer
Add the diced potatoes and water (or broth). Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
5. Final Touches
Add green olives and peas or carrots (if using). Simmer for an additional 5 minutes uncovered. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh cilantro before serving. Pair with warm homemade flour tortillas for the ultimate comfort food.
Homemade Flour Tortillas Recipe
No Mexican picadillo is complete without fresh, fluffy flour tortillas. Making them at home is easier than you think and far superior to store-bought options.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or lard
- ¾ cup warm water
Instructions:
1. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add Fat
Add oil or lard and mix with your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Pour in Water
Slowly add warm water, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Rest the Dough
Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
5. Divide and Roll
Divide dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each into a ball. Using a rolling pin, roll each ball into a thin 6–8 inch circle.
6. Cook the Tortillas
Heat a dry skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook each tortilla for 30–45 seconds per side until lightly browned and puffed.
7. Keep Warm
Place cooked tortillas in a towel-lined basket to keep warm and soft.
Tips for the Best Mexican Picadillo
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and quality spices elevate the flavor.
- Balance the Spices: Too much cumin or chili powder can overpower the dish.
- Add a Sweet Touch: A teaspoon of raisins adds a surprising hint of sweetness.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the picadillo to rest for 5 minutes before serving helps deepen the flavors.
Picadillo Variations to Try
1. Picadillo with Ground Turkey
For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef.
2. Spicy Picadillo
Add chopped jalapeños or a splash of chipotle in adobo for heat.
3. Vegan Picadillo
Use lentils or plant-based crumbles, and swap broth for vegetable stock.
Nutritional Value (Per Serving)
Here’s a rough breakdown for Mexican picadillo with two flour tortillas:
- Calories: 480–550 kcal
- Protein: 25–30g
- Carbs: 40–50g
- Fat: 20–25g
- Fiber: 5g
This makes it a balanced meal, ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or quick weeknight cooking.
How to Serve Mexican Picadillo
Serve It With:
- Warm flour tortillas
- Steamed white or Spanish rice
- Refried beans or black beans
- Fresh avocado or guacamole
- A squeeze of lime
For a Party: Use it as a taco bar filling or inside tamales.
As Leftovers: Turn it into a burrito, nacho topping, or stuffed bell pepper filling.
Make It Ahead and Store It
Mexican picadillo stores beautifully and the flavors deepen over time.
- Refrigerator: Up to 4 days in an airtight container
- Freezer: Up to 3 months
- Reheat: On the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water
Tortillas also store well in a sealed bag for 2–3 days or can be frozen with parchment between layers.
Final Thoughts
Mexican Picadillo with Homemade Flour Tortillas is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth to your kitchen. With its rich, savory beef mixture and pillowy soft tortillas, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. From weekday meals to festive family gatherings, this classic dish is a standout star in any setting.
Whether you’re craving something nostalgic or just want to try an easy Mexican dinner recipe, this combination delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a staple in your home.
