When it comes to flavorful dishes, Puerto Rico has a reputation for delivering. And when that dish features ground beef as its star player, you know you’re in for a treat. Ground beef is a staple ingredient in many Puerto Rican recipes, and with the right combination of spices, herbs, and other ingredients, it can be transformed into a culinary masterpiece. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering Puerto Rican ground beef recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. From classic dishes like Picadillo with Olives and Raisins to creative twists like Ground Beef-Stuffed Bell Peppers Puerto Rican Style, there’s something for everyone in this delicious collection of recipes.
Picadillo with Olives and Raisins
This flavorful dish is a staple in many Latin American cuisines, and the addition of olives and raisins gives it a unique twist. With its rich flavors and tender beef, this picadillo is perfect for serving with rice, tortillas, or as a filling for tacos or empanadas.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup golden raisins
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Add the sliced olives and golden raisins, stirring to combine.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef Alcapurrias
Alcapurrias are a classic Puerto Rican dish that combines the flavors of ground beef, onions, and garlic with crispy fried dough. In this recipe, we’ll add a twist by using ground beef instead of traditional seafood or pork.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, and salt. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
2. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. When ready to fry, shape the beef mixture into small patties.
4. Dip each patty in beaten egg and then coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the alcapurrias for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Puerto Rican Beef Empanadas
Puerto Rican Beef Empanadas: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe
Empanadas are a staple in Puerto Rican cuisine, and this recipe gives them a savory twist by filling flaky pastry with tender beef. Perfect for snacking or as a main dish.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
• 1/4 cup warm water
• 1 egg, beaten
• Filling: 1 pound ground beef, cooked and seasoned with salt, pepper, and cumin; 1 onion, finely chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, shortening, and warm water. Mix until dough forms.
3. Divide dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly.
4. Place 1-2 tablespoons of beef filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or half-moon shape. Press edges together to seal.
5. Brush tops with beaten egg and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Puerto Rican Beef Empanadas!
Pastelón de Carne (Ground Beef and Plantain Casserole)
This classic Venezuelan dish is a staple of comfort food, combining the rich flavors of ground beef with the sweetness of ripe plantains. Perfect for a cozy dinner or family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large plantains, peeled and sliced into 1-inch rounds
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Arrange plantain slices in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Spoon the cooked beef mixture over the plantains.
6. Pour tomato sauce over the beef, followed by paprika to taste.
7. Top with shredded cheese (if using).
8. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bistec Encebollado (Ground Beef with Onions)
This classic Latin American recipe is a staple in many households, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, flavorful, and satisfying. Bistec Encebollado is a simple ground beef dish cooked with onions and spices that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, cumin, and paprika, cooking for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carne Molida con Papas (Ground Beef with Potatoes)
A classic Latin American dish that’s simple, comforting, and flavorful. This recipe is a staple in many households, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the diced potatoes, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
5. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Ground Beef and Rice (Arroz con Carne Molida)
A classic Latin American dish, Ground Beef and Rice (Arroz con Carne Molida) is a simple yet satisfying meal that combines flavorful ground beef with fluffy rice. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in the cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the beef mixture.
7. Add the beef broth and stir until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is heated through.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef-Stuffed Bell Peppers Puerto Rican Style
This recipe combines the flavors of Puerto Rico with the simplicity of stuffed peppers, resulting in a delicious and satisfying dish. Ground beef is seasoned with aromatic spices and onions, then filled into bell peppers for a flavorful twist on a classic.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the ground beef mixture and place in a baking dish.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ground Beef and Cheese Alcapurrias
Alcapurrias are traditional Puerto Rican fritters filled with beef or pork, but we’re giving them a cheesy twist! These crispy treats are perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4-6 wonton wrappers
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix ground beef, shredded cheese, flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the beef-cheese mixture in the center.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle, sealing the edges with water or a fork.
5. Fry the alcapurrias for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ground Beef and Plantain Mofongo
Mofongo is a classic Puerto Rican dish that combines the savory flavors of ground beef with the creamy texture of plantains. This recipe adds a new twist to this traditional dish by incorporating ground beef into the mofongo mixture.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 ripe plantains
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the plantains and mash them in a large bowl with a fork until they’re mostly smooth.
2. Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, onion, garlic, and cumin. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the cooked beef mixture to the mashed plantains and mix well.
4. Knead the mixture with your hands until it forms a sticky dough.
5. Shape into 2-3 mofongo balls and serve hot. Garnish with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Corn Empanadas
These savory empanadas combine the flavors of ground beef and sweet corn with a flaky pastry crust, making for a satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of refrigerated pie dough (or homemade crust)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
3. Add chopped onion, garlic, corn kernels, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is heated through.
4. Roll out pie dough to desired thickness. Spoon 1-2 tbsp of the beef-corn mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the filling.
5. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg and cut a few slits for steam release.
7. Bake empanadas at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or fry in hot oil until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash
This comforting dish combines the savory flavor of ground beef with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or weekend brunch. With minimal prep and cooking time, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for an added burst of flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add diced sweet potatoes; cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender and lightly browned.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Sofrito Stew
This flavorful stew combines tender ground beef with a rich sofrito sauce, perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal. With its blend of onions, garlic, bell peppers, and tomatoes, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers, chopped
– 2 cups sofrito sauce (see note)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onions, minced garlic, and bell peppers to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the sofrito sauce, beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the stew to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Avocado Salad
This hearty salad brings together the richness of ground beef and the creaminess of avocado, all wrapped up in a crunchy mix of greens and vegetables. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a pan over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and cooked ground beef.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil and lime juice. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Top with diced avocado and crumbled feta cheese (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ground Beef and Yuca Casserole
This comforting casserole combines tender ground beef with crispy yuca and creamy cheese, perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large yucas, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon until browned.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a separate pot, boil the yuca slices for 10-12 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the cooked ground beef mixture, yuca slices, and shredded cheese. Pour in the milk and sprinkle with paprika.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Ground Beef and Eggplant Lasagna Puerto Rican Style
A twist on the classic Italian dish, this lasagna combines tender ground beef with sliced eggplant and a blend of cheeses for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
5. In a separate saucepan, combine marinara sauce and dried oregano. Bring to a simmer over low heat.
6. Assemble lasagna by spreading meat mixture on bottom of baking dish, followed by layers of eggplant slices, noodles, and cheese.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ground Beef and Pumpkin Stew
Warm up with this comforting stew that combines the rich flavors of ground beef and pumpkin. Perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or rigatoni)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the pumpkin puree, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Cook pasta according to package instructions; serve with the stew.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ground Beef and Green Banana Mash
This hearty dish combines the rich flavor of ground beef with the natural sweetness of green bananas, creating a unique and satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2-3 ripe green bananas, peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the chopped green bananas and stir to combine with the meat mixture.
5. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the bananas are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Chickpea Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of tender ground beef, creamy chickpeas, and aromatic spices, all simmered together to create a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the chickpeas, red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
4. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ground Beef and Coconut Rice
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful combination of ground beef and coconut-infused rice. The creamy coconut milk adds a richness to the dish, while the beef provides a satisfying savory element.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups uncooked white or brown rice
– 3 cups water or chicken broth
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using water or chicken broth.
2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned (5-6 minutes).
4. Stir in the coconut milk, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked rice with the beef mixture and stir-fry until well combined.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the flavors of Puerto Rico with these 20 delicious ground beef recipes! From classic dishes like Picadillo with Olives and Raisins to creative twists like Ground Beef-Stuffed Bell Peppers, there’s something for everyone. Try making Puerto Rican Beef Empanadas or Pastelón de Carne (Ground Beef and Plantain Casserole) for a taste of the island. Or, spice up your meal with Bistec Encebollado (Ground Beef with Onions) or Ground Beef and Sofrito Stew. With these recipes, you’ll be transported to the sun-kissed streets of San Juan!
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