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 medium onion, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tomatoes, diced; 1/4 cup raisins; 1/4 cup olives, sliced; 1 tablespoon cumin; 1 teaspoon oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 large eggs; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying

Highlighted under: Vitality Meal Guide

I always find comfort in a plate of Beef Picadillo with a fried egg on top. This dish brings a delightful complexity of flavors that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. The rich, savory ground beef melds beautifully with diced vegetables and spices that create a symphony of taste. Finishing it off with a perfectly fried egg adds a creamy texture that elevates the meal. It's not just a dish; it's a wonderful experience that I love to share with my family during busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Created by

Rafael

Last updated on 2026-01-20T14:38:28.607Z

When I first tried Beef Picadillo, I was captivated by the vibrant mix of flavors. The warmth of the spices and the sweetness of bell peppers just clicked, reminding me of family dinners growing up. I made sure to use fresh ingredients, especially the herbs, which truly enhance the dish's flavor profile.

What sets mine apart is the addition of a fried egg on top. I find that the runny yolk adds an incredible creaminess that ties the meal together perfectly. Don’t rush the egg; taking the time to get it just right makes all the difference!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A symphony of flavors that warms the heart
Perfectly fried egg adds delicious creaminess
Great for weeknights or leisurely brunches

      

Understanding the Role of Ingredients

The ingredients in Beef Picadillo each play a vital role in creating its rich flavor profile. For instance, the raisins add a touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements, while the olives introduce a salty brininess that enhances overall depth. Using a mixture of both green and red bell peppers adds a vibrant color and distinct flavor. You can choose other vegetables like carrots or zucchini that can complement the dish yet maintain the critical balance between sweet and savory.

Cumin and oregano are essential spices in this dish. Cumin's earthy tones and warm notes help to create a well-rounded flavor, while oregano adds a hint of earthiness and a burst of freshness. If you're out of cumin, ground coriander can serve as a decent substitute. However, keep in mind that it will alter the flavor profile slightly. Always taste as you add spices, allowing the combination to develop before serving.

Perfectly Frying Eggs

Frying the perfect egg to accompany your Beef Picadillo can elevate the dish. Cooking the eggs at medium heat is crucial, as it helps prevent the oil from splattering while allowing the whites to set without overcooking the yolks. Look for the whites to become just opaque with firm edges, signaling that they are ready to be served. If you prefer a firmer yolk, you might consider covering the pan briefly to steam the tops, which can also help the whites cook evenly.

When frying eggs, consider using a non-stick skillet for a hassle-free release. If you want an additional layer of flavor, try adding a small amount of butter along with the oil. This will give the eggs a rich taste and can help achieve a beautifully golden edge while maintaining that tender, runny yolk that complements the dish.

Ingredients

For the Picadillo

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tomatoes, diced
1/4 cup raisins
1/4 cup olives, sliced
1 tablespoon cumin
1 teaspoon oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Fried Egg

4 large eggs
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

Make sure to gather all the ingredients before starting for ease of preparation.

Instructions

Cook the Beef and Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Sauté until they soften, about 5 minutes.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Then, add the ground beef, cooking until browned.

Add Flavor

Mix in the diced tomatoes, raisins, olives, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Fry the Eggs

In a separate pan, heat oil over medium heat. Crack the eggs into the pan and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny, about 3-4 minutes.

Serve

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

Pair with rice or tortillas for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider garnishing with fresh cilantro or avocado slices.

Make-Ahead Tips

Beef Picadillo is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can cook a larger batch and store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. Reheating it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, will keep the flavors intact. Just be careful not to overheat, as it can dry out the beef. This makes it perfect for quick weeknight meals, and you can always fry fresh eggs to add just before serving.

If you want to freeze Beef Picadillo, allow it to cool completely first. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, where it can be stored for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly before serving. The dish actually benefits from resting, as the flavors continue to meld during storage.

Serving Suggestions

When serving Beef Picadillo with a fried egg, consider pairing it with a simple side salad or rice to balance out the dish. A light citrusy salad can cut through the richness, while fluffy rice can soak up the delicious sauce. For an authentic touch, serve with warm tortillas or crunchy plantain chips, allowing guests to build their own bites with the picadillo and egg.

To add an extra layer of flavor, consider garnishing with fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese before serving. The bright notes of cilantro can bring out the dish’s freshness, and feta contributes a tangy creaminess that complements the savory elements beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and will also reduce the fat content.

→ Is Picadillo traditionally served with an egg?

It's not always traditional, but the fried egg adds a delicious touch that many enjoy.

→ Can I make Picadillo in advance?

Absolutely! Prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ What can I serve with Beef Picadillo?

It pairs wonderfully with rice, tortillas, or even a side salad.