Easy Carne Picada Recipe
This Easy Carne Picada recipe is a flavorful and budget-friendly Mexican dish made with chopped beef, bold spices, and simple ingredients. Perfect for tacos, rice bowls, or burritos, it’s a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner your whole family will love.
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients:
- 1–2 lbs Carne Picada beef chopped or thinly sliced beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 jalapeño or bell pepper sliced
- Fresh cilantro chopped
- Juice of 1 lime for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Pat beef dry and season with salt, pepper, and a bit of chili powder.
- Sear the Meat: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Sear beef in batches until browned.
- Add Aromatics: Lower heat to medium. Add onions, garlic, and peppers (if using). Sauté until soft.
- Simmer: Stir in diced tomatoes and beef broth, scraping up browned bits. Add all seasonings. Simmer for 20–30 minutes until sauce thickens and beef is tender.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro. Serve hot in tacos, bowls, or burritos.
Notes
- Use chuck roast or round steak for the best texture.
- Add chipotle peppers for extra heat.
- Great for meal prep freezes and reheats well.
- Want it saucier? Add more broth or tomato sauce as it simmers.
- Serve with rice, tortillas, or over nachos for a fun twist.