This cuban picadillo recipe is a classic Cuban ground beef dish made with olives, raisins, and capers simmered into a rich, savory-sweet sauce. It’s one of the most beloved easy Cuban dishes and a perfect introduction to authentic Cuban food at home.

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This cuban picadillo recipe is a classic Cuban ground beef dish made with olives, raisins, and capers simmered into a rich, savory-sweet sauce.

It’s one of the most beloved easy Cuban recipes, perfect for weeknights and approachable for anyone looking for easy Cuban food recipes that still deliver bold, traditional flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Cuban Picadillo Recipe

This is one of those easy Cuban dishes that feels comforting, nostalgic, and deeply satisfying.
It’s made in one skillet, uses simple ingredients, and develops incredible flavor as it simmers.
The balance of salty olives, sweet raisins, and savory beef is what makes Cuban picadillo so special.
It’s also make-ahead friendly, reheats beautifully, and pairs perfectly with classic Cuban sides.

What Is Cuban Picadillo?

Cuban picadillo is a traditional picadillo Cuban food dish made with ground beef cooked in a tomato-based sauce with olives, raisins, and aromatics.

It’s known for its signature sweet-and-savory flavor profile, which sets it apart from other versions of picadillo found throughout Latin America.

This cuban picadillo recipe reflects the classic Cuban preparation that’s served in homes across the island and in Cuban-American kitchens.

What Is Picadillo Made Of?

At its core, picadillo is made from finely chopped or ground meat, which is where the name comes from.

In Cuban picadillo, the key ingredients typically include ground beef, onion, bell peppers, garlic, tomato, olives, raisins, and bay leaves.

Capers are often added for extra briny depth, and the dish is simmered until thick, glossy, and deeply flavorful.

What Does “Picadillo” Mean?

The word “picadillo” comes from the Spanish verb picar, which means “to chop” or “to mince.”

In cooking, picadillo refers to a dish made with finely chopped or ground meat cooked with seasonings and vegetables.

That’s why picadillo is often described as a type of seasoned ground beef dish in English.

What Is the Difference Between Mexican Picadillo and Cuban Picadillo?

While both dishes share a name, they are quite different.

Cuban picadillo is known for its sweet-and-savory flavor, thanks to olives, raisins, and capers simmered into the sauce.

Mexican picadillo, on the other hand, typically includes potatoes, carrots, and warm spices, with no sweetness.

This contrast is exactly why picadillo Cuban food stands out as such a unique and recognizable dish.

What Do You Call Picadillo in English?

In English, picadillo is often described as seasoned ground beef or minced beef.

However, the Spanish name is widely used in English-language recipes, especially when referring to Cuban, Puerto Rican, or Latin American versions.

Using the word picadillo helps distinguish it from basic ground beef dishes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Picadillo Base

2 lbs 80/20 ground beef
1 large onion, finely diced
1 red bell pepper, finely diced
1 green bell pepper, finely diced

Aromatics and Seasoning

4 cloves garlic, grated
2 tbsp The Spice Girl Kitchen Cuban Seasoning
1 1/2 tbsp tomato paste

Sauce and Add-Ins

1 1/4 to 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
2/3 cup sliced green olives
1/2 cup raisins
2 tbsp capers
2 bay leaves

To Finish

The Spice Girl Kitchen Tri-Salt Blend, to taste
Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

How To Make Cuban Picadillo Recipe

Brown the Beef

Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it up as it browns. Remove the beef with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave a little drippings in the pan for flavor.

Sauté the Onion and Peppers

Add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil to the same skillet. Add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper, then cook for 3 to 5 minutes until softened. Stir often so the vegetables soften evenly without browning too quickly.

Bloom the Tomato Paste and Seasoning

Stir in the grated garlic and tomato paste and cook for about 30 seconds, just until the tomato paste darkens slightly. Add The Spice Girl Kitchen Cuban Seasoning and cook 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant. This quick bloom step deepens the flavor.

Deglaze and Build the Sauce

Pour in 1 1/4 cups chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Those bits add big flavor to the finished sauce. If your pan runs dry during simmering later, you can add the remaining broth as needed.

Add the Picadillo Mix-Ins

Return the browned beef to the skillet. Add the sliced green olives, raisins, capers, and bay leaves. Stir well so the sweet and savory ingredients are evenly distributed.

Simmer Until Thick and Glossy

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cook uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reduces and the picadillo looks thick and glossy. Lower the heat as needed so it simmers gently and does not scorch.

Finish and ServE

Season with The Spice Girl Kitchen Tri-Salt Blend to taste after simmering. Discard the bay leaves before serving. Serve warm with white rice and fried plantains, then garnish with chopped cilantro.

What to Serve With Cuban Picadillo

Cuban picadillo is traditionally served with white rice, which soaks up the rich sauce beautifully.
Fried sweet plantains are a classic pairing and balance the savory flavors perfectly.
Cuban black beans or yuca with garlic mojo also make excellent sides.
If you want something lighter, a simple green salad works well alongside this dish.

Storage, Make-Ahead, and Reheating Tips

This is one of those easy Cuban food recipes that tastes even better the next day.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Cuban picadillo also freezes well for up to three months.

FAQs About Cuban Picadillo

Is Cuban picadillo sweet or savory?
It’s both. The combination of savory beef, salty olives, and sweet raisins is what defines the dish.

Is picadillo considered traditional Cuban food?
Yes. Picadillo is a staple in Cuban home cooking and is widely considered a classic Cuban dish.

Can I make Cuban picadillo ahead of time?
Absolutely. It’s a great make-ahead meal and reheats beautifully.