Picture this: a delightful aroma wafting through your home, hinting at a meal that’s bursting with flavor and warmth. Slow cooker picadillo, with its rich blend of spices, tender meat, and vibrant vegetables, has a way of making any day feel a little brighter. Let’s explore some irresistible recipes that will not only fill your belly but also create lasting memories around the dinner table.
Classic Cuban Picadillo


Easy Authentic Cuban Picadillo from A Sassy Spoon
Rating: 4.7. Ingredients: Stuffed sweet potatoes, stuffed peppers, de carne, ground beef, potato balls Total Time: 30 min.

Cuban Picadillo from Skinnytaste
Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: Lean ground beef, tomato sauce, green olives, red bell pepper, garlic Total Time: 35 min.

Classic Cuban-Style Picadillo from Allrecipes
Rating: 4.6. Ingredients: Lean ground beef, tomato sauce, green olives, green bell pepper, capers Total Time: 30 min.
This classic Cuban picadillo brings together savory ground beef and a medley of spices, resulting in a dish that’s both hearty and comforting. The slow cooking method allows all those flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich, delicious sauce that you’ll want to savor with every bite.
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup green olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
What makes this picadillo so special is its unique combination of sweet and savory flavors. The raisins add a hint of sweetness that perfectly balances the richness of the beef, while the olives offer a briny contrast that elevates the dish. Served over white rice or with warm tortillas, this meal is sure to create smiles all around the table.
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Vegetarian Picadillo with Lentils

If you’re looking for a vegetarian twist on the traditional picadillo, this lentil version is simply divine! It’s packed with protein, fiber, and a colorful array of vegetables, making it a nutritious and satisfying option for everyone at the table.
- 1 cup lentils (green or brown)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup green olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
This dish is not just about being meat-free; it’s bursting with flavor and texture! The lentils provide a hearty base, soaking up the spices and the sweetness from the raisins. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce more plant-based meals into your diet without sacrificing taste. Enjoy this dish with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy quinoa for a wholesome dinner that feels good inside and out.
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Sweet and Spicy Picadillo with Pineapple

For a fun twist that’ll surprise your taste buds, try this sweet and spicy picadillo featuring pineapple! The combination of flavors in this dish creates a delightful harmony that’s both tropical and comforting, perfect for a cozy dinner.
- 1 lb ground pork or beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup green olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
This recipe is a delightful mix of sweet and spicy that makes it stand out from the rest. The pineapple adds a juicy sweetness that plays beautifully with the savory meat and spices. It’s like a mini vacation on your plate, bringing a taste of the tropics to your home. Serve it with coconut rice or on its own for a meal that’s sure to be a hit!