Mom’s Picadillo Con Papa (Ground Beef with Potatoes)

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet and sauté the diced onion until softened.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, just until fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef and season with salt, pepper, cumin, paprika, and oregano. Cook until the beef is browned.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook until they begin to break down and release their juices.
5. Add the diced potatoes, tomato sauce, and broth.
6. Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the sauce thickens.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with tortillas or rice.

Variations

• Add peas or carrots for a classic family-style picadillo variation.
• Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon for a subtle hint of traditional warmth.
• Include diced jalapeños for a spicier profile.

Tips

• Don’t skip browning the meat well—it builds deep flavor.
• If the sauce thickens too quickly, add a splash of broth or water.
• For richer flavor, sauté a spoonful of tomato paste with the beef.
• Cut potatoes uniformly so they cook evenly and tenderly.