Stovetop Picadillo Spanish Beef Rice

Name: Stovetop Picadillo Spanish Beef Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup green olives, sliced; 1/4 cup raisins; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 bay leaf

Highlighted under: Cross-Cultural Cooking Recipes

Experience the vibrant flavors of Spanish cuisine with this easy stovetop picadillo, a comforting dish of seasoned ground beef and rice.

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2025-12-24T00:19:27.826Z

This Stovetop Picadillo Spanish Beef Rice is a delicious one-pot meal that brings together the rich flavors of ground beef, spices, and rice, making it a family favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Savory and flavorful combination of beef and spices
Quick and easy to make in just one pot
Perfect for meal prep or a weeknight dinner
Comforting and filling dish that the whole family will enjoy

      

A Taste of Spain

Picadillo is a traditional dish that varies widely across Latin America and Spain, each region putting its unique spin on the recipe. The Spanish version is characterized by the incorporation of olives and raisins, offering a delightful balance of savory and sweet flavors. This stovetop version is not only quick to prepare but also allows the vibrant ingredients to shine through, making it a favorite for both casual meals and festive occasions.

The magic of picadillo lies in its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to include seasonal vegetables or your favorite spices, making it a perfect way to clean out your fridge. This dish also pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, from crusty bread to a simple salad, making it an excellent choice for any meal.

Whether you're an experienced cook or a kitchen novice, this stovetop picadillo recipe is designed to be straightforward and approachable. With just one pot needed, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy the delightful flavors without the hassle.

Meal Prep Made Easy

One of the standout features of this stovetop picadillo is its suitability for meal prep. By making a larger batch, you can portion out the dish for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week. Store the picadillo in airtight containers for up to five days in the refrigerator. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat and serve, making mealtime stress-free.

Additionally, this dish freezes beautifully. After cooking, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore its moisture.

The combination of flavors only gets better over time, making it an ideal candidate for batch cooking. You’ll find that the spices meld together, giving you a delicious meal that tastes just as good, if not better, the next day.

Customizing Your Picadillo

While this recipe provides a classic foundation for stovetop picadillo, feel free to personalize it to suit your taste preferences. For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative, keeping the rest of the ingredients the same for a hearty and satisfying meal.

You can also experiment with different types of olives – green olives lend a tangy flavor, while black olives offer a milder taste. The addition of fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, can brighten the dish and add an extra layer of flavor. Don't hesitate to get creative and adapt the recipe to fit your family's preferences!

This flexibility not only makes picadillo a family favorite but also allows you to explore various culinary traditions. Each time you make it, you can discover new flavor combinations and ingredients that complement this beloved dish.

Ingredients

For the Picadillo

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1/2 cup green olives, sliced
1/4 cup raisins
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups beef broth
1 bay leaf

Gather all the ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

Add Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

Stir in Ingredients

Mix in the diced tomatoes, green olives, raisins, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes.

Cook the Rice

Add the rice, beef broth, and bay leaf to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until rice is tender.

Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork, remove the bay leaf, and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious stovetop picadillo!

Make sure to let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Storage Tips

To ensure the longevity of your stovetop picadillo, proper storage is key. After cooking, allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. This helps prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to spoilage. Store it in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze it for longer storage.

When freezing, consider portioning the picadillo into smaller containers or freezer bags. This makes reheating easier and allows you to enjoy just the right amount without wasting any food. Label each container with the date and contents for easy identification later.

Serving Suggestions

Stovetop picadillo is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. While it pairs beautifully with fluffy rice, you can also serve it with quinoa for a healthier twist or on top of baked potatoes for a comforting meal. Add a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to round out the meal and increase your vegetable intake.

For an authentic experience, serve picadillo with crusty bread or warm tortillas, allowing everyone to scoop up the flavorful mixture. Topping it with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream can elevate the dish even further, adding a burst of freshness and creaminess.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative.

→ What can I serve with picadillo?

This dish is great on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or crusty bread.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for picadillo?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute to create a vegetarian version.