If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, easy to prepare, and requires just one pan, you’re in for a treat with this One Pan Picadillo Recipe. This vibrant and comforting meal marries seasoned ground beef with colorful bell peppers, savory olives, and smoky fire-roasted tomatoes, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings joy with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This One Pan Picadillo Recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a crucial role in building its rich and savory profile. From the tender ground beef to the tangy pimento-stuffed olives, every component adds a unique texture or flavor, making the whole dish sing beautifully.
- 1 lb lean ground beef: Provides a hearty and protein-packed base that absorbs all the delightful seasonings.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and enhances the flavor depth when sautéed.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced: Brings vibrant color and a mild, fresh crunch that balances the richness.
- 1 green bell pepper, diced: Offers a slightly bitter, crisp contrast that complements the red pepper perfectly.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and a touch of pungency.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes: Adds smokiness and a luscious tomato base that binds the flavors.
- 1/2 cup pimento-stuffed olives, chopped: Gives a salty, briny pop that takes the dish to the next level.
- 1 tsp ground cumin: Introduces earthy, spice notes that are essential to authentic picadillo.
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce: Enhances umami without overpowering other flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to round out the savory profile.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Used to sauté the vegetables and brown the beef, lending richness.
How to Make One Pan Picadillo Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, letting them sauté until they turn translucent and release their inviting aroma. This step lays the flavorful foundation that will carry through the entire dish.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the lean ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Browning the beef properly not only ensures it’s cooked through but also develops a savory crust that adds depth to the picadillo.
Step 3: Add Bell Peppers
Once the beef has browned, stir in the diced red and green bell peppers. Cook them just until they soften slightly while still retaining a bit of their fresh crunch. This step is what keeps the dish lively, balancing texture beautifully.
Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Seasonings
Pour in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes along with their juices to bring smoky, tangy moisture to the pan. Add the chopped pimento-stuffed olives, ground cumin, low-sodium soy sauce, and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything well so the flavors begin to meld together.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Lower the heat and let the picadillo simmer for about 10 minutes. This simmering allows all the ingredients to mingle, deepen their flavors, and thicken slightly into a satisfying, cohesive filling that tastes like it’s been lovingly slow-cooked.
Step 6: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Serve your One Pan Picadillo Recipe warm, either over a bed of fluffy white rice or tucked into warm tortillas. This warmth ties the entire experience together, making every bite comforting and delightful.
How to Serve One Pan Picadillo Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your One Pan Picadillo Recipe, consider garnishing with freshly chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco. These garnishes add brightness and a bit of zing, complementing the dish’s rich savory tones perfectly.
Side Dishes
This picadillo pairs wonderfully with simple side dishes like steamed white rice, warm tortillas, or even a crisp green salad. Each side helps balance the dish’s robust flavors, whether by adding freshness or providing a neutral canvas to soak up the delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by serving picadillo as a filling for tacos, empanadas, or stuffed peppers. You can also scoop it onto nachos layered with cheese for a fun, flavorful twist. The versatile nature of this One Pan Picadillo Recipe makes it a perfect candidate for various culinary adventures.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover picadillo in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners on busy days.
Freezing
This recipe freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat One Pan Picadillo Recipe gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, to fully warm without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative that works well in this recipe. Keep in mind it may cook a little faster, so watch closely to avoid overcooking.
What can I substitute for pimento-stuffed olives?
If you don’t have pimento-stuffed olives, regular green olives work fine. You can also try Kalamata olives for a richer, fruitier flavor, just chop them finely before adding.
Is this recipe spicy?
This picadillo is mildly spiced by the cumin and savory ingredients but not hot. You can add a pinch of chili flakes or diced jalapeño if you like a little extra kick.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just be sure your soy sauce is gluten-free or substitute with tamari to keep the dish gluten-friendly without compromising flavor.
How long does this dish take to prepare?
This One Pan Picadillo Recipe is wonderfully quick, requiring about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking, making it ideal for busy weeknights when time is precious.
Final Thoughts
This recipe captures the heart and soul of home cooking—full of vibrant flavors and easy enough to whip up any day of the week. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this One Pan Picadillo Recipe as much as I do. It’s truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm embrace and makes everyone at the table smile. Give it a try and see how quickly it becomes a beloved favorite in your kitchen.
Print
One Pan Picadillo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Latin American
Description
This One Pan Picadillo is a flavorful and comforting Latin-inspired dish featuring lean ground beef simmered with fire-roasted tomatoes, bell peppers, olives, and aromatic spices. Easy to prepare in just one skillet, it’s a perfect weeknight meal served over rice or in tortillas.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Other Ingredients
- 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup pimento-stuffed olives, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the oil and sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes, to develop a flavorful base.
- Brown the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Add bell peppers: Stir in the diced red and green bell peppers. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the peppers soften slightly but still retain some texture.
- Incorporate tomatoes and seasonings: Pour in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes with their juices. Add the chopped pimento-stuffed olives, ground cumin, low-sodium soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to combine the flavors evenly.
- Simmer the mixture: Reduce heat to low and let the picadillo simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve: Serve the picadillo warm over rice or wrapped in tortillas. Garnish with fresh herbs or additional toppings of your choice for an authentic touch.
Notes
- Fire-roasted tomatoes add a smoky depth—if unavailable, regular canned diced tomatoes can be substituted with a slight adjustment for smokiness using smoked paprika.
- Pimento-stuffed olives provide a unique flavor; green olives can be used as an alternative.
- For a spicier version, add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of chili powder.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat thoroughly before serving.
- Serve with white rice, black beans, or use as a filling for tacos and empanadas.
