Puerto Rican cuisine is a fusion of Spanish, African, and indigenous Taino influences, resulting in a unique flavor profile that is both rich and vibrant. One staple ingredient that is often used in many traditional dishes is ground beef. In this article, we will explore 20 delicious Puerto Rican ground beef recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
From savory stews and hearty casseroles to flaky empanadas and crispy pies, the versatility of ground beef is showcased in these mouthwatering dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting to experiment with new flavors, these recipes offer something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take a culinary journey through Puerto Rico and highlight some of the island’s most beloved ground beef dishes, each with its own special twist.
Let’s start our culinary adventure by exploring some of the island’s most popular ground beef recipes…
Picadillo with Olives and Raisins
A twist on the classic Mexican dish, this picadillo recipe adds a burst of flavor from salty olives and sweet raisins.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup golden raisins
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon 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.
5. Once the beef is browned, add the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Add the sliced olives and golden raisins. Stir 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
Ground Beef Alcapurrias Recipe: A Puerto Rican Classic
Alcapurrias are a popular Puerto Rican dish that combines ground beef with potatoes, onions, and spices, wrapped in a crispy plantain shell. This recipe is an easy twist on the classic, using store-bought empanada wrappers to make it a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium potato, peeled and grated
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 empanada wrappers (homemade or store-bought)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, grated potato, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is well combined and the potatoes are tender.
4. Lay an empanada wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture onto the center of the wrapper.
5. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges to seal.
6. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the alcapurrias until golden brown, turning occasionally.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Puerto Rican Beef Empanadas
Puerto Rican Beef Empanadas: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe
These savory empanadas are filled with tender beef, onions, and spices, wrapped in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a snack or as part of a larger meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Frying oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, cumin, and paprika to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the flour and warm water to form a dough.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares or circles).
7. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture onto one half of the pastry, brush edges with egg wash, and fold in half to form an empanada.
8. Fry the empanadas for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pastelón de Carne (Ground Beef Plantain Lasagna)
This traditional Dominican dish combines the flavors of ground beef, sweet plantains, and creamy cheese, all layered between a crispy lasagna noodle-like base. A hearty and satisfying meal perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 4 ripe plantains, sliced into 1-inch rounds
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 8 lasagna noodles (or plantain leaves)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
3. Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onions are translucent.
4. In a separate pan, sauté sliced plantains with a little oil until caramelized and tender.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of ground beef mixture, followed by a layer of tomato sauce, then a layer of plantains. Repeat this process two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Ground Beef and Potato Stew
A comforting and flavorful stew perfect for a chilly evening or a busy weeknight dinner. This recipe combines tender ground beef with creamy potatoes and a hint of savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 chopped onion and minced garlic; continue cooking until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, water, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bistec Encebollado (Ground Beef with Onions)
A classic Latin American dish, Bistec Encebollado is a flavorful and hearty meal made with ground beef, sautéed onions, and spices. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground beef, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking up with a spoon, until the meat is fully browned (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers Puerto Rican Style
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the richness of ground beef with the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rico.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place in a baking dish.
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 and cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice and diced tomatoes.
6. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture, filling to the top.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carne Molida con Papas (Ground Beef with Potatoes)
A classic Latin American dish that combines tender ground beef with crispy potatoes, perfect for a comforting and filling meal.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground beef
• 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: paprika, chili flakes, or other spices for added flavor
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 minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
5. Add the potato cubes to the skillet and stir to combine with the beef mixture.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired spices.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Cheese Alcapurrias
This recipe puts a creative spin on traditional alcapurrias, which are Puerto Rican-style fritters filled with beef and potatoes. In this version, we substitute the potatoes with melted cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1 package of alcapurria dough (usually found in the frozen food section or online)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, shredded cheese, flour, egg, and salt. Mix well.
3. Take a piece of alcapurria dough and flatten it slightly. Place about 1 tablespoon of the beef-cheese mixture in the center.
4. Fold the dough over the filling to form a ball and press the edges together to seal.
5. Fry the alcapurrias for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil with paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ground Beef and Rice Arroz con Carne Molida
This classic Latin American dish combines tender ground beef with flavorful rice and spices, making it a comforting and satisfying meal. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy this delicious Arroz con Carne Molida at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add ground beef; cook until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add chicken broth and water to the skillet; bring to a boil.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until liquid has reduced slightly.
7. Combine cooked rice and ground beef mixture. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Sweet Plantain Mash
A flavorful twist on traditional mashed potatoes, this recipe combines ground beef with sweet plantains for a hearty and satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large ripe plantains, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add diced plantains to the skillet; stir to combine with beef mixture.
5. Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until plantains are tender.
7. Stir in butter until melted; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Cornmeal Pie (Pastel de Maíz)
This hearty pie combines the savory flavors of ground beef with the sweetness of cornmeal, wrapped in a flaky crust. Perfect for a comforting meal or a crowd-pleasing snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
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 onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together cornmeal, milk, and egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour cooked beef mixture into the pie crust, followed by the cornmeal mixture.
6. Roll out remaining pie crust for top crust and place over filling. Crimp edges to seal.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ground Beef and Yuca Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the richness of ground beef with the creamy texture of yuca, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium yuca roots, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, yuca, peas and carrots, and paprika to the skillet; cook for 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in cream of mushroom soup and shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Chickpea Stew
This flavorful stew is a perfect blend of tender ground beef, nutritious chickpeas, and aromatic spices. Serve it with crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
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 chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Pumpkin Stew
Cozy up with this comforting fall-inspired stew that combines tender ground beef with the warmth of pumpkin, carrots, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 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 and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in pumpkin puree, carrot, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the meat is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Green Banana Hash
This hearty hash combines the richness of ground beef with the natural sweetness of green bananas, making it a perfect comfort food for any time of day. The crispy texture from the pan-frying adds an extra layer of flavor and satisfaction.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large green bananas, diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves 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 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 diced green bananas; stir to combine with the meat mixture.
5. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the bananas are tender and lightly caramelized.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Beef and Sofrito Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this flavorful combination of ground beef, sofrito, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup sofrito (a mixture of sautéed onions, garlic, bell peppers, tomatoes, and herbs)
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp cumin
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, sofrito, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, and cumin. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Serve with your favorite marinara sauce and pasta, or enjoy as an appetizer!
Ground Beef and Cheese Empanadillas
These savory pastries are a staple in Latin American cuisine, filled with seasoned ground beef and melted cheese. Perfect for a quick snack or satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in cheese until melted.
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out empanada dough to 1/8-inch thickness.
6. Spoon beef mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
7. Fold other half over filling and press edges to seal.
8. Brush with beaten egg and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Avocado Stuffed Arepas
A twist on traditional arepa fillings, these savory treats combine the richness of ground beef with the creaminess of avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 arepas (or cornmeal patties)
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– Optional: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, cilantro for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add cooked rice, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until combined and heated through.
4. Stuff each arepa with about 1/4 cup of the ground beef mixture.
5. Bake arepas for 10-12 minutes or until crispy on the outside and warm throughout.
6. Top with mashed avocado and optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Ground Beef and Coconut Rice Bowl
This flavorful bowl combines the richness of ground beef with the creamy sweetness of coconut rice and a hint of Asian-inspired flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with soy sauce and salt to taste.
4. Cook the mixture for about 5-7 minutes or until the beef is browned and cooked through.
5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the unsweetened shredded coconut.
6. Serve the ground beef mixture over the coconut rice, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Summary
Experience the bold flavors of Puerto Rico with these 20 mouth-watering ground beef recipes! From classic dishes like Picadillo with Olives and Raisins to creative twists like Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers, there’s something for every palate. Try traditional favorites like Puerto Rican Beef Empanadas or Pastelón de Carne (Ground Beef Plantain Lasagna), or explore new flavors with recipes like Ground Beef and Coconut Rice Bowl. Whether you’re looking for a hearty stew, savory empanada, or satisfying casserole, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and transport you to the vibrant culinary scene of Puerto Rico.
