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Green Chile Picadillo Beef is the ultimate comfort food — hearty, flavorful, and packed with vibrant ingredients. This dish brings the warmth of traditional Mexican cuisine straight to your table and is perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. My first encounter with this recipe was during a bustling fall evening when the air was crisp and the harvest was plentiful, sparking an irresistible urge for something flavorful and filling. It’s become a staple in my home, not just because it pleases everyone at the table, but also because it’s quick to prepare and offers a delightful explosion of flavors with each bite.

Why you’ll love this dish

This Green Chile Picadillo Beef recipe is a delightful medley of flavors, tailored for anyone who loves a satisfying and wholesome meal. Imagine hearty ground beef blended with roasted green chiles, tender potatoes, and aromatic spices, all simmered to perfection. Not only is this dish budget-friendly, but it’s also versatile enough for a cherished weeknight meal or a festive holiday spread. Kids often gravitate towards the savory, comforting ingredients, making it a family favorite.

“I made this for my family, and it was a hit! Everyone was asking for seconds. The flavor from the chiles is just incredible!” — A happy home cook

Step-by-step overview

Creating Green Chile Picadillo Beef is simple, yet the results are impressive. Starting with a base of sautéed onions, garlic, and peppers, you’ll then incorporate ground beef, spices, and hearty vegetables. The recipe hinges on a leisurely simmer, allowing the flavors to develop while cooking the potatoes to tender perfection. Read through for the detailed steps, and soon you’ll be serving up a dish that feels like a warm hug.

What you’ll need

To whip up this savory delight, gather the following ingredients:

450 g ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium green bell pepper, diced
3 medium green chiles, roasted, peeled, and chopped (or use 113 g canned diced green chiles)
1 medium potato, diced
5 g ground cumin
5 g dried oregano
2 g paprika
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
240 ml beef broth or water
30 ml vegetable oil
Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish

Feel free to swap fresh green chiles with canned ones for convenience or explore different spice levels based on your heat preference!

Step-by-step instructions

Delicious Green Chile Picadillo Beef served with aromatic spices

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and let it cook until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Incorporate the minced garlic and diced green bell pepper, sautéing them for 2 to 3 minutes until softened.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, around 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Stir in the diced potato, chopped green chiles, ground cumin, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
Pour in the beef broth or water, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender.
Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If the mixture appears too dry, feel free to add a splash more broth.
Remove from heat, let it rest for a few minutes, and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.

Best ways to enjoy it

Once your Green Chile Picadillo Beef is ready, it’s time to think about serving it up! This dish is incredibly versatile; you can enjoy it over a bed of warm rice, wrapped in soft tortillas, or even alongside crispy tacos. Consider adding a side of refried beans and a fresh salad for a complete meal. Play around with accompaniments, and don’t shy away from including your favorite toppings—think avocado, lime wedges, or a dollop of sour cream.

Storage and reheating tips

If you’re fortunate enough to have leftovers, storing them properly can help you enjoy this dish for days to come. Allow the picadillo to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary, until heated through. This dish also freezes beautifully; just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container, where it can last up to three months.

Helpful cooking tips

Cook with patience: Allow the beef to brown nicely before adding your other ingredients; it enhances the flavor depth.
Customize your spice: If you’re a fan of heat, throw in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Prep veggies ahead: If you’re short on time, prep your vegetables in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? You can easily transform this Green Chile Picadillo Beef to fit various dietary preferences. Swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option. Add black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor, or even try different types of bell peppers for a colorful twist.

Your questions answered

How long does it take to prepare? The total time from prep to plate is about 45 minutes.
Can I use different meats? Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well, as does a vegetarian alternative like lentils or plant-based crumbles.
What can I do with leftovers? Leftover Green Chile Picadillo Beef can be repurposed in burritos, nachos, or even atop baked potatoes.

With its delightful balance of flavors and textures, this Green Chile Picadillo Beef is sure to become a go-to recipe in your household. Enjoy every warm, flavorful bite!