Healthy Cuban Picadillo with Cauliflower Rice (Low-Carb, One-Pot Meal) by Dr. Cindy Tanzar
Cuban Picadillo is a beloved traditional dish known for its rich, savory flavor and comforting blend of ground beef, spices, and vegetables. In this healthy twist on the classic Cuban recipe, we skip the usual potatoes and raisins and serve the picadillo over a bed of cauliflower rice instead of white rice. The result? A lighter, low-carb version that still captures the vibrant, authentic flavors of Cuba—perfect for anyone looking for a wholesome, satisfying meal. It’s so tasty, don’t be surprised if there are no leftovers!
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Cuban Picadillo Recipe
This healthy Cuban Picadillo is a nutritious, family-friendly one-pot dinner that delivers bold flavor and effortless cleanup. Here’s why it’s worth adding to your weekly meal rotation:
- Low-Carb & Gluten-Free: Cauliflower rice makes this dish keto-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
- Packed with Flavor: Spices like cumin, cinnamon, and oregano mingle with tomatoes and olives for a rich, savory experience.
- Protein-Packed & Veggie-Rich: Ground beef and plenty of vegetables make this a balanced, hearty option.
- Quick & Easy: Comes together in one pot with minimal prep and cleanup.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Makes 8 servings—perfect for leftovers or batch cooking.
🍽️ Recipe Overview
Yield: 8 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Dietary Notes: Low-carb, gluten-free
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 lbs. grass-fed ground beef
- 2 Tbsp. coconut oil or avocado oil (divided)
- Pink Himalayan salt & ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/3 cup sliced green onions
- 1/3 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp. ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/3 cup chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup green olives with pimentos, chopped
- 2 Tbsp. tomato paste
- 1 cup water
- 2 Tbsp. Kerry Gold butter (or any unsalted butter)
- 8 cups cauliflower rice
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
To start, heat 1 tablespoon of coconut or avocado oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spatula, until fully browned. Then, use a slotted spoon to transfer the beef to a bowl and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Next, in the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Once hot, toss in the sliced green onions and diced red bell pepper. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and release their aroma. After that, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
3. Build the Flavor
Once the aromatics are fragrant, it’s time to layer in the signature Cuban flavors. Stir in the cumin, cinnamon, oregano, bay leaf, chopped tomatoes, chopped olives, tomato paste, and water. Mix everything thoroughly to create a rich base. Then, return the browned ground beef to the pot and stir again to fully combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered (or with the lid slightly ajar) for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to reduce slightly.
4. Cook the Cauliflower Rice
After simmering, remove the pot from heat and discard the bay leaf. With a small amount of sauce still in the pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the cauliflower rice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender and has absorbed the remaining flavors.
5. Assemble and Serve
Finally, it’s time to plate your meal. Spoon a generous portion of the picadillo over the cauliflower rice. Allow the juices to soak into the rice for an extra flavorful bite. Serve warm and enjoy a satisfying, nutrient-rich dinner the whole family will love.
🥄 Tips & Variations
- Customize it: Feel free to add additional vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or adjust the spices to match your preferred heat level.
- Make it spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a little kick.
- Storage: Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 4 days and are great for meal prep.
📌 Final Thoughts on Healthy Cuban Picadillo
This healthy Cuban Picadillo recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a classic comfort food dish with a nutritious, modern twist. It’s bursting with authentic flavors, made in just one pot, and ideal for low-carb and gluten-free lifestyles. Whether you’re new to Cuban cuisine or a longtime fan, this easy weeknight dinner is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
👉 Be sure to bookmark this recipe and share it with friends who love flavorful, healthy meals!