Craving Cuban Style Picadillo in the Kitchen

There’s nothing like the aroma of a simmering pot of richly seasoned Cuban Style picadillo (ground beef), olives, and tomatoes to bring everyone to the table. This dish, inspired by the Cubans in my family, is the ultimate one-pot comfort meal. It’s bold, savory, and slightly sweet — thanks to the surprising addition of potatoes that perfectly balance out the tiny olives and warm spices.

It helps coming from a large family, because we get to enjoy cuisines from different cultures. I know one of my uncle’s favorite dishes to make is his lentil soup! Whether you’re cooking for family or just craving something cozy on a weeknight, these dishes deliver every time.

a Cuban meal

ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium-to-large yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1–2 tomatoes, diced
  • 1 large can (about 28 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 handful green olives (pitted)
  • 1 small box of raisins (about 1/4–1/2 cup)
  • 2–3 bay leaves
Seasonings
  • Cumin (1–2 tsp)
  • Dried oregano (1 tsp)
  • Sazon completa (1–2 tsp)
  • Salt & pepper to taste
Directions
  1. Start your rice — this stew loves a fluffy white rice base, so get that going first.
  2. Brown the beef in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Break it up as it cooks.
  3. Once the beef is no longer pink, add cumin, oregano, sazon completa, salt, and pepper.
  4. Stir in the onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and softened.
  5. Add the diced potatoes and cook for 2–3 minutes to start softening them.
  6. Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, stirring to coat everything.
  7. After a few minutes, pour in the chicken broth to loosen the mixture.
  8. Toss in the olives, raisins, and bay leaves, giving it all a good stir.
  9. Simmer uncovered on low heat for 25–30 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the flavors have melded together.
Serve with the Cuban Style Picadillo

Spoon generously over rice, garnish with fresh parsley if you like, and serve with warm bread or a side salad. This dish gets even better the next day — perfect for leftovers or meal prep.

other Variations
  • Swap beef for ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter version.
  • Add bell peppers or carrots for extra veggies.
  • Prefer it spicy? Stir in some red chili flakes or a diced jalapeño.
  • If you have leftover ground beef, these stuffed peppers are a great idea too!

This is one of those dishes that feels like home no matter where you’re from. Living in the Midwest has me feeling homesick every so often, so making this recipe among my other Cuban recipes helps me immerse myself back into my culture. It’s humble, hearty, and packed with flavor — a true comfort classic with a twist. Enjoy every bite of the Cuban Style picadillo, on me!!

Xo, Mel

Hi, I’m Mel! A Midwest-based storyteller, dog mom to the smartest Aussie named Mango, and forever optimist. I write about foodie adventures, travel, and finding joy in the everyday moments. When I’m not blogging, you’ll find me chasing sunsets, planning my next weekend getaway, or dancing in the kitchen with a glass of wine in hand.

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