Beef Picadillo with Fried Egg

Name: Beef Picadillo with Fried Egg
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup green olives, sliced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 eggs; Cooked rice; Avocado slices (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love preparing Beef Picadillo with Fried Egg for my family. This dish combines ground beef with a medley of vegetables, olives, and spices, creating a delightful fusion of flavors. The addition of the fried egg on top takes it to a whole new level. Each bite is a satisfying mix of savory and hearty, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. I usually serve it with fluffy rice and avocado on the side, which adds a nice creaminess that balances the dish perfectly.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-20T11:14:27.668Z

When I first tried this Beef Picadillo recipe, I was amazed at how a few simple ingredients could create such a rich and satisfying dish. The combination of the sautéed vegetables, the olives, and the spices brings a depth of flavor that I found irresistible. One tip I learned is to let the mixture simmer for a few minutes longer after adding the tomatoes, as it helps develop a deeper taste.

My family loves when I top each serving with a perfectly fried egg. The creaminess of the yolk adds richness that ties all the flavors together beautifully. To make it even better, I serve it over rice, which soaks up all the delicious sauce. It's quickly become one of our favorite meals!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Savory combination of ground beef and spices
Delightfully topped with a runny fried egg
Quick to prepare and perfect for family dinners

      

The Right Texture and Flavor

Achieving the perfect texture in Beef Picadillo is crucial for a satisfying dish. When browning the ground beef, ensure it's cooked on medium-high heat, allowing it to develop a nice sear. Aim for a deep brown color, which enhances the umami flavor. Avoid overcrowding the skillet; if necessary, cook the beef in batches to ensure even browning and avoid steaming, which would result in a less flavorful outcome.

The key to a rich flavor profile lies in the balance of spices. Cumin and oregano are essential in this recipe, as they bring warmth and depth to the dish. I suggest toasting the cumin seeds in the skillet for a minute before adding them to release their oils and enhance the aroma. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as you go, tasting frequently to ensure the flavors meld well before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing Beef Picadillo with fluffy rice not only adds substance but also balances the hearty flavors. For the rice, consider using a long-grain variety like basmati or jasmine, which will complement the dish well. You can also cook the rice in beef broth instead of water for an additional layer of flavor. When serving, create a generous base of rice to soak up the sauce from the picadillo.

The garnish of a fried egg is not just for aesthetics; it introduces a rich creaminess that enhances the entire dish. For the perfect sunny-side-up egg, cook it over medium heat and cover the skillet for the last minute to ensure the whites are fully set without overcooking the yolk. If you prefer variations, try adding a sprinkle of feta cheese or some cilantro as a bright finishing touch.

Ingredients

For the Beef Picadillo

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1/2 cup green olives, sliced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

4 eggs
Cooked rice
Avocado slices (optional)

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped for a smoother cooking experience.

Instructions

Cook the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion and bell pepper until they're soft, about 5 minutes.

Add the Ground Beef

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook until it's browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.

Mix in Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the minced garlic, diced tomatoes, olives, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes so that the flavors meld together.

Fry the Eggs

In another skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat and fry the eggs to your liking, ideally sunny-side up.

Serve

Serve the picadillo over a mound of rice and top with a fried egg. Add avocado slices on the side if desired.

Adjust the spices according to your taste preference!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of hot sauce over the top before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Beef Picadillo is an excellent make-ahead dish. You can prepare it a day in advance, letting the flavors develop overnight in the fridge. Simply cool it to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. When ready to serve, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Remember to add a splash of water or broth if it looks too thick during reheating.

Freezing is also an option, though I recommend slightly undercooking the beef initially if you plan to freeze it. Store the picadillo in freezer-safe containers, and it'll keep for up to three months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and follow the same reheating method on the stovetop. Adjust the seasoning as needed, especially salt, as freezing can mute flavors.

Variations and Dietary Swaps

This recipe lends itself well to variations based on dietary preferences. If you're looking for a lighter version, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Cooking times will remain similar, but be mindful that poultry may require a little less seasoning due to its lighter flavor. Alternatively, you can make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with crumbled tempeh or lentils and adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

Feel free to experiment with the ingredient mix too. Adding diced potatoes or carrots can enhance the texture and nutritional profile. If you like a bit of heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture. These simple swaps can personalize the dish and suit your family's taste while keeping the essence of Beef Picadillo intact.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a lighter dish.

→ What if I can't find green olives?

You can substitute with black olives or leave them out if you prefer.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or some crushed red pepper flakes while cooking.

→ Can this recipe be made in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the picadillo ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.