Beef Picadillo Tacos
A quick, savory weeknight taco starring seasoned Ground Beef cooked with tomatoes, onion, and garlic, ready in 30 minutes. Spoon into warm corn tortillas and top with shredded lettuce or your favorite fixings.
Recipe Courtesy Of:
Cook Time: 30 Minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients: 10
Ingredients
Optional Toppings
Preparation
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Step 1
Heat a large nonstick skillet over MEDIUM heat until hot. Add Ground Beef and cook 8-10 minutes, breaking beef into small crumbles and stirring occasionally.
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Step 2
Add onion, garlic and tomatoes. Stir to combine, fully cook the ground beef, and cook until vegetables have softened.
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Step 3
Reduce heat, season with salt, pepper and cumin. Serve warm with corn tortillas and toppings of choice.
Nutrition Information
398 Calories
4.2g SAT FAT
26g PROTEIN
3.2 mg IRON
5.5 mg ZINC
* Based on a 2,000 calorie diet
** Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet
The Essential Ingredients
Ground Beef: Also called ‘hamburger,’ is made by grinding beef cuts and beef trim. It works well in dishes that require crumbles, and typically any leanness of Ground Beef works well in dishes – just be sure to drain any remaining fat after cooking.
Vegetable Oil: Probably the most well-known cooking oil, this is a neutral-flavored oil made from soy beans, corn, and canola. It’s great for just about any cooking method.
Onion: These versatile root veggies bring a sharpness to any dish, without adding too much spice. Onions come in wide varieties, but are most often seen in white, yellow, and red. Onions are a staple of many cuisines and a pillar of classic mirepoix, a soup and sauce base consisting of carrots, onions, and celery.
Diced Tomatoes: Peeled and chopped tomatoes preserved in liquid. A convenient way to add tomato to recipes. Some include seasonings.
Corn Tortillas: Made from finely ground corn – masa harina – these tortillas are a staple in many Latin dishes.
Safe Handling Tips:
- Wash hands with soap and water before cooking and always after touching raw meat.
- Separate raw meat from other foods.
- Wash all cutting boards, utensils, and dishes after touching raw meat.
- Do not reuse marinades used on raw foods.
- Wash all produce prior to use.
- Cook steaks and roasts until temperature reaches 145°F for medium rare, as measured by a meat thermometer, allowing to rest for three minutes.
- Cook Ground Beef to 160°F as measured by a meat thermometer.
- Refrigerate leftovers promptly.
For more information on degree of doneness and other cooking tips.
For more information on safe food handling and beef safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I make the picadillo filling ahead of time?
You bet! The beef mixture is incredibly freezer-friendly and actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld. You can prepare it in advance, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the freezer. When you’re ready to serve, just thaw it and reheat it gently on the stovetop.
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How do I get the ground beef perfectly browned?
Start with a preheated, hot skillet and spread the beef into an even layer without overcrowding the pan. Avoid stirring it immediately; letting it sit for a few minutes allows that beautiful, caramelized crust to form, which is where much of the rich, deep flavor comes from.
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Are there any recommended toppings for these tacos?
Since these tacos are packed with savory beef and spices, they pair beautifully with fresh, crisp toppings. We love adding thinly sliced romaine lettuce, fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, some diced avocado, or even a sprinkle of cotija cheese to add a bright, creamy contrast to the robust flavor of the beef.