The rich flavors of Puerto Rico come alive with a variety of delicious ground beef dishes. With influences from Spanish, African, and indigenous cultures, Puerto Rican cuisine offers a unique blend of spices, herbs, and ingredients that make your taste buds dance. Ground beef is a staple in many Latin American cuisines, and Puerto Rico is no exception. From savory empanadas to flavorful rice bowls, there are countless ways to prepare ground beef that showcase the island’s culinary spirit.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering Puerto Rican ground beef recipes that pack a punch of flavor. Whether you’re looking for classic dishes like picadillo and alcapurrias or innovative twists on traditional recipes, we’ve got you covered.
Picadillo with Olives and Raisins
A twist on the classic Latin American dish, this spicy picadillo combines sweet and savory flavors with a kick of heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup golden raisins
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 7-8 minutes.
5. Stir in the sliced olives and golden raisins. If using jalapeños, add them now.
6. 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 popular Puerto Rican dish that combines the flavors of ground beef, onions, and spices with crispy fried dough. This recipe puts a twist on traditional alcapurrias by using ground beef instead of traditional filling ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Optional: chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
2. Divide the mixture into 8-10 portions, depending on desired size.
3. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the alcapurrias for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total
Puerto Rican Beef Empanadas
These savory pastries are a staple in Puerto Rican cuisine, filled with tender beef and spices. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat a deep fryer or a large skillet with about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until just combined.
3. Roll out empanada dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into circles or squares, depending on your preference.
4. Place a tablespoon or two of the beef mixture onto the center of each dough piece. Fold the dough over the filling, pressing edges together to seal.
5. Fry empanadas in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Beef and Potato Pastelón
Pastelón, a classic Latin American dish, is a flavorful casserole that combines tender beef, creamy potatoes, and savory spices. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a separate pot, boil the sliced potatoes until they’re slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
5. Combine the cooked beef mixture, potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, cumin, salt, and pepper in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Mix well.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
7. Drizzle olive oil over the top.
8. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Sofrito-Seasoned Beef Stuffed Peppers
Sofrito-Seasoned Beef Stuffed Peppers: A flavorful twist on a classic dish!
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup Sofrito seasoning (available at most Latin American markets or online)
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add Sofrito seasoning, cooked rice, and olive oil to the beef mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff each pepper with the beef mixture, filling to the top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Bistec Encebollado with Ground Beef
This classic Dominican recipe is a hearty and flavorful twist on traditional ground beef. The addition of onions, garlic, and tomato paste creates a rich and aromatic sauce that’s sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil 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 onions and minced garlic; cook until the onions are translucent.
4. Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the beef broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Beef and Plantain Mofongo
Get ready to savor the bold flavors of Puerto Rico with this mouthwatering Spicy Beef and Plantain Mofongo recipe. This traditional dish is a twist on the classic mofongo, adding a spicy kick from the beef and a hint of sweetness from the plantains.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe plantains
– 1 pound beef strips (flank steak or skirt steak work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel the plantains and slice them into 1-inch pieces.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from heat and let cool.
4. Mash the plantain pieces in a mortar and pestle with the garlic, cilantro, jalapeño, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the cooled beef to the mashed plantains and mix well.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Cheese Alcapurrias
A twist on traditional Puerto Rican empanadas, these Ground Beef and Cheese Alcapurrias combine savory beef with gooey cheese inside a crispy dough wrapper.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable shortening or lard for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, and egg. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Add grated cheese to the meat mixture and mix again.
4. Divide the dough into small balls and roll out each ball into a thin circle.
5. Place about 1 tablespoon of the meat-cheese mixture in the center of each circle.
6. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a half-moon shape, and press edges together to seal.
7. Fry the alcapurrias for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, turning occasionally.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Puerto Rican-Style Beef Meatballs
A flavorful twist on traditional meatballs, these Puerto Rican-style beef meatballs are infused with the bold flavors of the island, including garlic, oregano, and cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, cilantro, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and gently roll them to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Arroz con Carne Molida (Beef and Rice)
A classic Latin American dish that combines tender beef with flavorful rice, this recipe is a staple of many family gatherings. With its rich aroma and savory taste, Arroz con Carne Molida is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket or shank, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes.
6. Add the beef broth and bring to a boil.
7. Return the beef to the pot, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash
Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash Recipe
A hearty and satisfying dish that combines the savory flavors of ground beef with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, all wrapped up in a crispy hash.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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 diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the hash is crispy.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef-Stuffed Yuca Balls
A delicious twist on traditional yuca recipes, these crispy outside and tender inside beef-stuffed yuca balls are perfect for a flavorful snack or appetizer. With a rich beef filling and a hint of spice, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 4 large yucas
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Boil yucas until tender, then drain and let cool.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Cut cooled yuca into small pieces and mix with the beef mixture.
5. Shape mixture into small balls (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter).
6. Fry yuca balls in hot oil until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Puerto Rican Beef and Bean Stew
This hearty stew is a staple of Puerto Rican cuisine, made with tender beef, flavorful beans, and aromatic spices. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or as a comforting meal to share with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket or chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the beans, beef broth, and browned beef. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 2 hours or until the beef is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Ground Beef and Corn Empanadillas
A twist on traditional empanadas, these savory pastries are filled with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, corn, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 package empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). If using homemade dough, roll out to desired thickness.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add corn, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until corn is tender, about 5 minutes.
4. On a floured surface, roll out empanada dough to desired thickness. Cut into squares or circles.
5. Place a spoonful of the beef and corn mixture in the center of each square. Fold dough over filling, forming a triangle or half-moon shape. Press edges together to seal.
6. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry empanadillas until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total, including frying and baking time.
Spicy Beef and Cheese Empanadas
Empanadas are a staple in many Latin American cuisines, but this recipe adds a bold twist with spicy beef and melted cheese. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, these empanadas will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients (see below)
– Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Filling:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced jalapeño pepper
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
3. Add shortening and warm water; mix until dough forms.
4. Divide dough into 8-10 equal pieces.
5. Roll out each piece into a thin circle.
6. Place 1 tablespoon of beef filling in the center of each circle.
7. Fold empanada in half, forming a triangle or crescent shape.
8. Brush edges with beaten egg.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carne Molida con Papas (Beef with Potatoes)
A classic Latin American dish that combines tender beef and creamy potatoes, perfect for a cozy meal or gathering. This recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket or chuck, cut into small pieces
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pot and add enough water to cover the ingredients.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Ground Beef and Plantain Lasagna
A creative twist on traditional lasagna, this recipe combines the savory flavor of ground beef with the sweetness of plantains and the comfort of a classic Italian dish. Perfect for a unique dinner party or family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 ripe plantains, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Arrange lasagna noodles on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Spread half of the meat mixture, followed by half of the marinara sauce, and half of the plantain slices.
6. Repeat layers, ending with mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Puerto Rican Beef and Eggplant Casserole
This hearty casserole combines tender beef, rich eggplant, and flavorful spices, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner. With its bold flavors and textures, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 crackers, crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Brown ground beef in a skillet; drain excess fat.
3. In a separate pan, sauté eggplant slices until tender.
4. Combine cooked beef, eggplant, onion, garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish; top with shredded cheese and crushed crackers.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Pigeon Peas Rice Bowl
Savor the flavors of Asia with this simple yet satisfying dish that combines tender beef, savory pigeon peas, and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 1/2 cup pigeon peas (or substitute with green beans or snow peas)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the pigeon peas and soy sauce to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the peas are tender.
5. Combine the cooked beef, rice, and pea mixture in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Beef and Avocado Tostadas
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful combination of ground beef, creamy avocado, and crispy tortillas. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 4-6 corn tortillas
– 2 ripe avocados, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in taco seasoning and cook for an additional minute.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tostadas by spreading ground beef mixture onto tortillas, topping with sliced avocado, and adding desired toppings.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your culinary game with these 20 flavorful Puerto Rican ground beef recipes! From savory empanadas and pastelones to hearty stews and casseroles, this collection has something for everyone. Discover classic dishes like Picadillo with Olives and Raisins and Beef-Stuffed Yuca Balls, or try new twists on old favorites like Spicy Beef and Plantain Mofongo and Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Hash. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a show-stopping dish for your next gathering, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.