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Anytime Meals · Worth the Wait

Classic Cuban Beef Picadillo

By Chef Rajesh Abraham

Prep:10 minutes
Cook:20 minutes
Serves:2
Total:30 minutes
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The Method

How to Make It

A traditional Cuban dish made with ground beef simmered with tomatoes, peppers, garlic, and warm spices. This hearty picadillo is served with steamed vegetables and can also be enjoyed with rice or wrapped in flatbread for a balanced meal.

Classic Cuban Beef Picadillo — preparation
CLASSIC CUBAN BEEF PICADILLO_01.webp Hero / preparation photo
  1. 01

    Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.

  2. 02

    Add ground beef and cook until browned.

    Stir in diced bell peppers and cook for 2–3 minutes. Add crushed tomatoes, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10–12 minutes until the sauce thickens and flavors combine. Steam broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots for 4–5 minutes until tender but crisp. Serve picadillo beside the vegetables. It can also be served with rice or wrapped in flatbread.

Flavor Profile: Cuban picadillo is savory, mildly spiced, and slightly smoky. Cumin provides earthy warmth, smoked paprika adds depth, and bell peppers with tomatoes bring natural sweetness and balance.

Classic Cuban Beef Picadillo — final dish
CLASSIC CUBAN BEEF PICADILLO_02.webp Final plated dish photo