From Skillet to Table: Easy Picadillo-Style Beef Chili

This Picadillo-Style Beef Chili is a warm and hearty dish that brings together the rich flavors of Latin-inspired spices, tender ground beef, and the subtle sweetness of raisins. Simmered to perfection with tomatoes, bell peppers, and a touch of cinnamon, this chili offers a unique twist on the classic. Perfect for cozy dinners, meal prepping, or serving up at gatherings, it’s a satisfying, one-pot wonder that’s both delicious and mindful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold Flavors – A perfect blend of spices adds depth and warmth to every bite.
One-Pot Wonder – Easy cleanup with everything cooked in one pan.
Hearty and Filling – Ground beef, beans, and veggies make it a complete meal.
Unique Twist – The addition of raisins and cinnamon gives it that signature Picadillo flair.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef (93% lean)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, no salt added
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• ¼ cup raisins
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Add Vegetables
Stir in the onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.

Season and Simmer
Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, raisins, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Add Broth and Cook
Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat and let it cook uncovered for about 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and the flavors meld together.

Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm with a side of rice, cornbread, or simply on its own.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 180
Protein: 20g
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Sugar: 5g
Fiber: 4g

Tips for Success

• Simmer Slowly – Letting the chili cook slowly deepens the flavors.
• Adjust the Heat – Add more chili powder or even a dash of hot sauce if you prefer extra heat.
• Use Fresh or Canned Tomatoes – Both work well; just make sure they’re unsalted for better control over seasoning.
• Make it Ahead – This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Why This Recipe Works

This Picadillo-Style Beef Chili takes the familiar comfort of chili and infuses it with the rich, warm flavors of Latin cuisine. The raisins add a subtle sweetness that balances the smoky spices, while the cinnamon provides a hint of warmth that sets this dish apart. Low in calories but full of flavor, it’s the perfect hearty meal to enjoy any night of the week.

Picadillo-Style Beef Chili is a delicious, hearty dish that warms you up from the inside out. With its bold flavors and unique ingredients, it’s a twist on classic chili that’s both satisfying and wholesome. Whether you’re serving it up for family dinner or prepping for the week, this chili is bound to become a favorite.