Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with an authentic Mexican dish that promises to be your new weeknight dinner obsession! This Instant Pot Mexican Picadillo is not just a meal; it's a flavor-packed journey that combines the rich, hearty goodness of ground beef with a symphony of spices and traditional ingredients. In just 30 minutes, you'll create a mouthwatering dish that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico, without spending hours in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup olives, sliced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by chopping onions, mincing garlic, and slicing olives before beginning cooking.
- Turn on Instant Pot and select the "Sauté" function. Allow the pot to heat up for 1-2 minutes.
- Add ground beef to the Instant Pot and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until the meat is browned and no longer pink, approximately 5-6 minutes.
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the browned beef. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until onions become translucent.
- Sprinkle cumin and chili powder over the meat mixture, stirring to distribute the spices evenly.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, stirring to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Add sliced olives and mix gently into the picadillo mixture.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to "Sealing", and select "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" mode for 8 minutes at high pressure.
- Once cooking is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then carefully do a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid, stir the picadillo, and let it sit for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve hot with rice, tortillas, or as a filling for tacos or burritos.
Tips
- Meat Matters: Use lean ground beef (80/20 ratio) for the best flavor and texture. Drain excess fat if needed after browning.
- Spice it Right: Don't be shy with cumin and chili powder. These spices are the secret to authentic Mexican flavor.
- Prep is Key: Chop all ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.
- Sauté Function Magic: Use the Instant Pot's sauté function to develop deep, rich flavors before pressure cooking.
- Natural Release Tip: The 5-minute natural release helps the meat remain tender and allows flavors to meld.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve over rice, in tortillas, or as a standalone dish. Top with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This picadillo tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 276kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 60mg
