Mom’s Picadillo Con Papa is one of those timeless Mexican comfort dishes that instantly fills the kitchen with warmth and nostalgia. Tender potatoes simmer with seasoned ground beef in a rich, savory tomato sauce, creating a meal that’s cozy, satisfying, and full of homestyle flavor. It’s the kind of dish many families grow up with—simple ingredients, nourishing comfort, and deep, familiar aromas that feel like home.
This picadillo strikes a perfect balance between hearty and saucy. The potatoes soak up the broth and spices as they cook, becoming irresistibly tender while helping the sauce thicken to the ideal consistency. Meanwhile, the ground beef brings rich flavor, complemented by cumin, paprika, and oregano for classic Mexican warmth. The tomatoes and tomato sauce blend into a vibrant base that’s mild enough for the whole family yet full-bodied in taste.
This dish is wonderfully versatile: enjoy it wrapped in warm tortillas, spooned over rice, or served alongside beans for a complete meal. It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for weekly meal prep or next-day leftovers that taste even better. A sprinkle of cilantro adds a fresh finish, but it’s just as delicious on its own.
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For an extra layer of abuelita-style depth, sautéing a spoonful of tomato paste with the beef enriches the sauce and amplifies the savory tomato notes—an easy step that elevates the entire dish.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 Roma tomatoes, diced (or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes)
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp oil
- Optional: chopped cilantro
Instructions:
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