Here’s a nostalgic and comforting recipe for Mom’s Picadillo con Papa — a classic Mexican (or Latin-style) dish made with ground beef and potatoes in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and perfect with tortillas, rice, or on its own.
🍲 Mom’s Picadillo con Papa
(Ground Beef with Potatoes)
🕒 Ready in: 35–40 minutes
🍽️ Serves: 4–6
🧄 Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef (80/20 or lean)
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2 medium potatoes, peeled & diced small
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½ small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1–2 Roma tomatoes, diced
(or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes) -
¼ cup tomato sauce (or 2–3 tbsp tomato paste + splash of water)
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1 tsp ground cumin
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½ tsp oregano
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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1 tbsp oil
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½ cup water or beef broth, as needed
🔥 Instructions:
1. Cook the Potatoes:
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In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tbsp oil.
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Add diced potatoes and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until starting to soften and brown. Set aside.
2. Brown the Beef:
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In the same skillet, add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
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Add onions and garlic, sauté 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add Tomato & Seasoning:
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Stir in diced tomato, tomato sauce, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
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Cook for about 5 minutes, until the tomato breaks down and sauce starts to form.
4. Combine and Simmer:
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Return potatoes to the pan.
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Add water or broth, stir to combine.
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Cover and simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes, until potatoes are tender and the sauce thickens. Stir occasionally and add a bit more water if it gets too dry.
5. Taste & Serve:
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Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Serve with warm tortillas, Mexican rice, or over a plate of beans.
✅ Variations:
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Add green peas, carrots, or chopped jalapeños for extra color and flavor.
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Swap ground beef for ground turkey, pork, or even soyrizo for a meatless version.
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For a spicier version, stir in chipotle in adobo or a splash of hot sauce.