Beef Picadillo with Fried Egg

Name: Beef Picadillo with Fried Egg
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned); 1/2 cup green olives, sliced; 1/4 cup raisins; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp vinegar; 4 large eggs; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp butter or oil for frying

Highlighted under: International Recipe Collection

When I first tasted Beef Picadillo, I was immediately drawn to its rich flavors and comforting aroma. This dish is a celebration of robust ingredients, blended effortlessly into a delightful medley that’s perfect for any day of the week. Topped with a perfectly fried egg, it transforms into a hearty meal that my whole family loves. I believe that adding a splash of vinegar at the end enhances the overall taste, giving it that extra zing that keeps you coming back for more.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-20T11:30:27.765Z

Every time I prepare Beef Picadillo, I think back to the first time I enjoyed it as a child. The combination of seasoned ground beef with olives and raisins creates a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate. The key is to let everything simmer together, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully. I always use fresh spices for an authentic taste, and I never skip the fried egg on top—it's a delightful finishing touch that elevates this dish.

One of my favorite tricks is to add a bit of acidity to balance the flavors. A splash of vinegar right before serving brightens the dish and enhances the sweetness of the raisins. Don't be surprised if you find yourself making this recipe time and again for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and fulfilling with a blend of sweet and savory flavors
Elevated by the addition of a sunny-side-up fried egg
Perfect for meal prep or serving at gatherings

      

Understanding the Flavors

The beauty of Beef Picadillo lies in its harmonious blend of flavors. The ground beef serves as a robust base, while the diced tomatoes add a splash of acidity that complements the savory notes. The sweet raisins introduce a surprising contrast, which is beautifully balanced by the salty green olives. This interplay creates a complex flavor profile, making each bite deliciously intriguing.

For a more pronounced flavor, consider using a mixture of spices. A pinch of cinnamon can complement the sweetness of the raisins, while a dash of oregano will elevate the dish with an aromatic layer. Each addition enhances the dish, making it adaptable to personal tastes while still paying homage to traditional Picadillo.

Cooking Technique Tips

Achieving perfectly browned beef is essential for flavor depth. When sautéing the onion and bell pepper, be patient; this step is crucial for developing a sweet base. Aim for about 5-7 minutes until they're translucent and fragrant. Add the garlic just before the beef to prevent burning, as it cooks quickly and can become bitter if overcooked.

When simmering the mixture, maintain a light bubble to allow flavors to meld without reducing the sauce too quickly. If you find the mixture too thick, a splash of beef broth or water can provide the needed consistency. Remember, this dish benefits greatly from a longer simmer, as it deepens the flavors.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

Served with a fried egg on top, this dish becomes an indulgent meal. For extra freshness, try garnishing with chopped cilantro or sliced avocado. A drizzle of hot sauce can also bring an exciting kick that enhances the overall experience. Don't shy away from pairing it with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.

If you have leftovers, Beef Picadillo can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve the flavors and texture. You can also freeze the unadorned picadillo for up to three months; just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to the freezer.

Ingredients

For the Picadillo

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
1/2 cup green olives, sliced
1/4 cup raisins
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp vinegar

For the Fried Egg

4 large eggs
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp butter or oil for frying

Instructions

Cook the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper; sauté until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, ground beef, cumin, and paprika.

Cook until the beef is browned.

Add the Flavorings

Mix in the diced tomatoes, green olives, and raisins. Season with salt and pepper. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Just before serving, stir in the vinegar.

Prepare the Fried Eggs

In a separate pan, heat butter or oil over medium heat. Crack the eggs into the pan and fry until the whites are set, and the yolks are still runny, about 3-4 minutes.

Serve

Spoon the picadillo onto plates and top each serving with a fried egg. Enjoy warm!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding diced potatoes or carrots to the picadillo mixture. This not only enhances the texture but also boosts the nutrient content.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this recipe a bit lighter, ground turkey or chicken can be a great substitute for beef. Keep in mind that the flavor profile may shift slightly; consider adding a few extra spices to compensate. For a vegetarian twist, substituting lentils or textured vegetable protein can provide similar texture, enhancing the medley of ingredients without losing the dish's heartiness.

Should you not have olives on hand, capers are a viable alternative, offering a similar briny flavor. Alternatively, a touch of pickled jalapeños can inject a different yet exciting punch. Remember to adjust salt levels accordingly, as some substitutes can be saltier than the original ingredients.

Meal Prep and Variations

Beef Picadillo is an excellent candidate for meal prep. Cook up a larger batch at once and portion it into individual containers for a quick lunch or dinner throughout the week. Just reheat and top with a fresh fried egg when you’re ready to enjoy it. This dish holds up well and actually tastes better the next day, as the flavors have more time to develop.

For variations, consider adding chopped carrots or peas for a touch of sweetness and color. You can also experiment with different types of peppers; using a mix of sweet and spicy varieties can add a new layer of depth. If you're feeling adventurous, add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for umami richness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter option.

→ Is it okay to prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, picadillo can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with beef picadillo?

It's delicious on its own, but you can serve it with rice, tortillas, or plantains for a complete meal.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace the beef with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version.