Stovetop Picadillo Spanish Beef Rice

Name: Stovetop Picadillo Spanish Beef Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup raisins; 1/4 cup olives, sliced; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked rice; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Enjoy a delightful blend of flavors with this Stovetop Picadillo Spanish Beef Rice, a comforting dish that's quick to prepare and sure to please.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-24T00:58:28.524Z

This Stovetop Picadillo Spanish Beef Rice is a traditional dish that brings the warmth of home cooking to your table. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it's perfect for any night of the week.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A savory blend of beef, spices, and vegetables
Quick and easy to make on a busy weeknight
A one-pot meal that minimizes cleanup

      

A Taste of Tradition

Picadillo is a traditional dish enjoyed in many Latin American countries, each with its own unique twist. This Stovetop Picadillo Spanish Beef Rice captures the essence of the original recipe while making it accessible for busy home cooks. The combination of ground beef, vegetables, and spices creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will transport you to the heart of Spanish cuisine.

This dish is not just about taste; it’s also a celebration of cultural heritage. Each bite offers a story of tradition, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings. With its comforting aroma and vibrant colors, this meal promises to delight not only your taste buds but also your senses.

Quick and Convenient Cooking

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can be challenging. That’s why this Stovetop Picadillo Spanish Beef Rice is a game-changer. It’s designed for efficiency, allowing you to whip up a delicious dinner in less than 30 minutes. The one-pot nature of the recipe means fewer dishes to wash, making cleanup a breeze.

This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to serve your family a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple steps, you can create a satisfying plate that's not only quick to prepare but also rich in flavor and nutrition.

Customizable for Everyone

One of the best aspects of this Stovetop Picadillo is its versatility. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For a spicier kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If you're looking to sneak in more vegetables, bell peppers, carrots, or even zucchini can enhance both flavor and nutrition.

Moreover, this dish caters to various dietary needs. You can easily substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option. This flexibility not only makes the recipe more inclusive but also encourages creativity in the kitchen, allowing you to make it your own.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Stovetop Picadillo

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1/2 cup raisins
1/4 cup olives, sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cooked rice
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Combine all ingredients in a large skillet for a delicious meal!

Cooking Steps

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned.

Add the Flavorings

Stir in the diced tomatoes, raisins, olives, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Combine with Rice

Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir well to combine. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your delicious Stovetop Picadillo Spanish Beef Rice!

Enjoy your meal!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Stovetop Picadillo Spanish Beef Rice experience, consider serving it with a side of warm tortillas or crispy tortilla chips. These additions can enhance the meal, allowing everyone to scoop up the picadillo for extra flavor.

A fresh salad with avocado, tomatoes, and lime dressing would complement this dish beautifully, adding a refreshing contrast to the savory beef. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of hot sauce can bring an exciting twist to every bite.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, you're in luck! Stovetop Picadillo Spanish Beef Rice stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply place it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy your frozen picadillo, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it thoroughly before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

→ What can I serve with Picadillo?

It pairs well with a simple salad or avocado slices.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Picadillo in advance and reheat it before serving.