25-Minute One Pan Picadillo (so flavorful!)

Name: 25-Minute One Pan Picadillo (so flavorful!)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound ground beef; 1 pound ground turkey (can use any ground meat you like); 1 ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; ¾ cup marinara sauce (your favorite kind); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 can green olives, halved; 1 teaspoon chili flakes

by Laney Schwartz on Feb 25, 2020 (updated May 9, 2025) 68 comments

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from 28 reviews

Are you short on time but still craving a delicious and flavorful meal? With a blend of ground beef, ground turkey, and a perfect combination of spices, this 25 Minute One Pan Picadillo is both easy to make and packed with flavor!

Close up of cooked ground meat in a pan with olives and tomatoes

This Picadillo recipe starts out pretty similar to my Ground Taco Meat with Homemade Seasoning and my 30-Minute Fettuccine Turkey Bolognese but with just a couple of simple additions, it turns into something totally new and special.

The dish is then seasoned with a blend of spices, including chili powder, cumin, and paprika, which gives it a smoky, slightly spicy flavor. Finally, we add cherry tomatoes and green olives for a burst of freshness and acidity.

One of the best things about Picadillo is how easy it is to make. With just one pan and a handful of ingredients, you can have a flavorful and satisfying meal on the table in just 25 minutes.

It’s a great option for those who want to make something delicious without needing to be an experienced home cook. Whether you serve it over coconut rice, quinoa, lettuce cups, or on its own, this picadillo recipe is sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation!

Some Ingredient Notes

ingredients in bowls on a grey background

Ground Beef and Ground Turkey – I really like the combo of the two.
Tomato Paste – This really goes a long way. Don’t skip it.
Cherry Tomatoes – Add a burst of freshness and acidity to the dish while also providing a pop of color.
Green Olives – I don’t typically love olives, but I love them in this dish!
Chili Flakes – Adds a bit of heat to the dish, which can be adjusted to your liking, making it the perfect option for those who love a bit of spice.

How to Make Picadillo is 25 Minutes

It’s actually super easy and comes together in less than 30 minutes all in one pan. (My favorite type of pan to use is stainless steel – here’s why, plus more tips on the best cookware for your kitchen!).

ground meat in a pan — Brown meat in the pan with spices

ground meat, tomatoes and olives in a pan — Add tomatoes, olives and sauce

picadillo in a pan — Cook together until cooked down and ready to serve

Watch how to make it

Recipe Tips

Use a large pan to cook the meat and other ingredients to ensure everything cooks evenly and browns properly.
Prep the cherry tomatoes and green olives while the meat is cooking to save time.
If you’re serving this dish over rice or quinoa, be sure to start cooking it before you begin making the picadillo so that everything is ready at the same time. Alternatively, you could use a pre-cooked rice or quinoa packet to save even more time.

Overhead shot of cooked ground meat in a pan with olives and tomatoes

What’s the best salt to use for cooking?

The Home Cook’s Guide to Salt

Learn about the basics of salt, plus the best salt for cooking (hint: it’s Kosher salt!) with this easy-to-understand guide to salt for home cooks.

Ways to serve Picadillo

Over Rice – This is the classic way to serve picadillo, with the flavorful meat and sauce poured over a bed of fluffy white rice.
In Tacos – Fill taco shells with the picadillo and top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner.
In Lettuce Wraps – Use lettuce leaves instead of taco shells to create a light and refreshing meal.
In Burritos – Roll up the picadillo with some refried beans, cheese, and avocado for a filling and satisfying meal.
With Tortilla Chips – Serve the picadillo as a dip with some tortilla chips for an easy and delicious snack.
In Stuffed Peppers – Fill bell peppers with the picadillo and bake until tender for a flavorful and easy dinner.
Over Pasta – For a fusion twist, serve the picadillo over your favorite pasta for a hearty and flavorful meal.

Cooked ground meat in a bowl with tomatoes, olives and served over quinoa

Storing and Freezing

Storing: To store the leftover picadillo, allow it to cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: Transfer leftover picadillo to a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing the container or bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating: When ready to use the frozen picadillo, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it in a pan over medium heat until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave or in the oven, but be sure to stir it occasionally to ensure even heating.