Beef Picadillo With Potatoes & Raisins

Imagine a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and ridiculously easy to make. Now stop imagining, because beef picadillo with potatoes and raisins is here to save your weeknight dinners. This isn’t just another ground beef recipe—it’s a flavor bomb with sweet, savory, and spicy notes that’ll make your taste buds throw a party.

Who knew raisins in a savory dish could be this good? (Spoiler: Everyone who’s tried it.) If you’re tired of bland meals and want something that’s both comforting and exciting, keep reading. Your future self will thank you.

What Makes This Recipe So Good

Beef picadillo is the ultimate one-pan wonder. It’s got tender potatoes, plump raisins, and savory ground beef swimming in a tomato-based sauce with just the right amount of spice.

The sweetness of the raisins balances the tangy tomatoes, while the potatoes add a satisfying bite. It’s like a hug in a bowl, but with flavor. Plus, it’s versatile—serve it over rice, stuff it in tacos, or eat it straight from the pan (no judgment).

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for maximum flavor)
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 1/2 cup raisins (trust us)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon (secret weapon)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

   Add onions and cook until translucent (about 3 minutes).

2. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds—don’t let it burn, or you’ll regret it.
3. Brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon until no pink remains (5–7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
4. Stir in potatoes, tomatoes, tomato paste, and spices. Mix well so the potatoes are coated in all that goodness.
5. Simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender.
6. Add raisins and cook for another 5 minutes.

   Taste and adjust seasoning.

7. Serve hot over rice, in tortillas, or with a fork and zero shame.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave—just add a splash of water if it’s too thick. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.

Pro tip: Freeze individual portions for lazy future-you.

Benefits of This Recipe

This dish is a nutrient powerhouse. Beef delivers protein and iron, potatoes add fiber and potassium, and raisins bring natural sweetness (and antioxidants). It’s also budget-friendly and meal-prep gold.

Plus, the spices (looking at you, cinnamon) have anti-inflammatory benefits. Basically, it’s delicious and good for you—rare combo.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the garlic—it turns bitter fast. 30 seconds max.
• Skipping the raisins. Yes, they sound weird here, but they’re non-negotiable.
• Underseasoning.

  Taste as you go, especially before adding the raisins.

• Cutting potatoes too big. They won’t cook evenly, and you’ll be sad.

Alternatives

No raisins? Use dried apricots or cranberries.

Vegetarian? Swap beef for lentils or plant-based crumbles. Out of potatoes?

Sweet potatoes work too. Hate cumin? Okay, we can’t help you there.

FAQ

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely.

Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork will work. Just adjust cooking time if needed, as leaner meats cook faster.

Is this dish spicy?

Not really. The chili powder adds mild heat, but it’s kid-friendly.

Want more kick? Add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yep. Brown the beef first, then dump everything (except raisins) in the slow cooker for 4–6 hours on low.

Add raisins last.

Why cinnamon?

It adds depth and warmth. IMO, it’s what takes this dish from “meh” to “more, please.” Don’t skip it.

Final Thoughts

Beef picadillo with potatoes and raisins is the underrated hero of weeknight dinners. It’s fast, flavorful, and foolproof—even if you burn the garlic once (we’ve all been there).

Make it once, and it’ll become a regular in your rotation. Now go raid your pantry and get cooking.