Cuban Beef Picadillo is the kind of meal that hits every comforting note. A savory, slightly sweet, and richly spiced ground beef dish simmered with onions, peppers, garlic, tomatoes, raisins, olives, and capers, this staple of Cuban cuisine is a fusion of cultures in a single pan. It’s easy to see why it remains a family favorite throughout the Caribbean and Latin America.

With its deep layers of flavor and humble origins, picadillo tells a story of resourcefulness and tradition. Whether you serve it over rice, spoon it into empanadas, or pile it into tacos, this dish adapts beautifully. What makes it extra special is the play of sweet and salty from the raisins and olives — unexpected, but perfectly balanced.

Why You’ll Love This Cuban Beef Picadillo

This dish isn’t just about flavor, though there’s plenty of it. It comes together in under an hour and uses mostly pantry staples, making it perfect for weeknights. The balance of ingredients adds just enough complexity without making it fussy. Plus, it freezes well, so make a double batch and thank yourself later.

If you’re exploring global flavors or simply want to break out of a dinner rut, Cuban picadillo brings a hearty, home-cooked vibe with bright, bold personality.

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

For the best flavor and texture, opt for ground beef that’s 85% lean. It offers enough fat to build richness without making the dish greasy. If you want a lighter version, ground turkey or chicken works as a substitute, but it may need a bit of olive oil to boost the depth that beef naturally brings.

Ingredients for the Cuban Beef Picadillo

Name: Authentic Cuban Beef Picadillo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 1 medium bell pepper, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound ground beef (85% lean); 1 cup tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 bay leaf; 1⁄3 cup raisins; 1⁄3 cup green olives, sliced; 1 tablespoon capers; Salt and pepper to taste

The charm of this dish lies in how every ingredient contributes to its distinctive balance of sweet, savory, and briny.

Ground Beef gives the dish its hearty base and savory depth.

Yellow Onion brings aromatic sweetness and texture.

Bell Pepper adds a mild, earthy note that complements the meat.

Garlic enhances the overall flavor and gives the dish warmth.

Tomato Sauce forms the rich, tangy foundation for the beef to simmer in.

Bay Leaf provides a subtle background herbal note.

Ground Cumin adds earthiness and warmth, essential for Cuban seasoning.

Dried Oregano balances the savory flavors and lifts the tomato base.

Green Olives introduce a salty, briny punch that contrasts beautifully with the sweet.

Raisins offer a sweet pop in each bite that defines picadillo’s character.

Capers add brightness and just the right touch of tang.

Salt & Pepper to taste, rounding out all the bold flavors.

How To Make the Cuban Beef Picadillo

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef to the pan and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed, but leave a bit for flavor.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

Pour in the tomato sauce and add cumin, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Add Sweet and Briny Touches

Stir in the raisins, olives, and capers. Let everything simmer uncovered for about 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce and flavors to meld.

Step 5: Taste and Serve

Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot over fluffy white rice or as a filling in your favorite dish.

Serving and Storing Cuban Beef Picadillo

This hearty dish feeds around 4 to 6 people, depending on how it’s served. As a main over rice, it generously satisfies. But you can also tuck it into empanadas, wrap it in tortillas, or use it as a protein-packed filling for stuffed peppers.

Picadillo stores like a dream. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. The flavors deepen even more the next day, making leftovers something to look forward to.

What to Serve With Picadillo?

Steamed White Rice

It’s the most traditional pairing, soaking up all the savory sauce.

Fried Sweet Plantains

That hint of caramelized sweetness is the perfect complement.

Cuban Black Beans

A classic side that adds creaminess and earthiness.

Avocado Slices

Cool and creamy, they contrast the warm spices beautifully.

Tostones

Crispy green plantains for a savory crunch.

Crusty Bread

Great for mopping up every bit of that delicious sauce.

Cucumber Salad

Refreshing and light, to balance the rich beef.

Roasted Carrots

Their natural sweetness pairs nicely with the raisins in the dish.

Want More Beef Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this Cuban Beef Picadillo, try these other comforting and flavorful meals:

Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef Melt for ooey-gooey weeknight satisfaction.
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole when you’re craving something ultra cozy.
Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole for a budget-friendly skillet dinner.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shells for something creamy and indulgent.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap in turkey or play with the spice? Any unexpected twists?

I love seeing how others make it their own. Questions and tips are always welcome.

Explore more global comfort dishes and weeknight wins on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find your next favorite!