Cuban Dinner Recipes

Turkey Picadillo (Cuban Picadillo de Pavo)

Ground turkey is one of those staples that I always have in my kitchen. Unfortunately, it’s also super bland and boring. Until now! Turning ground turkey into Cuban picadillo de pavo is the move. The Latin flavors of this traditional dish are out of this world (kinda like my…

  • Ready 30 minutes
  • Serves 6 servings
  • Prep 10 minutes
  • Cook 20 minutes
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Turkey Picadillo (Cuban Picadillo de Pavo)

Turning ground turkey into Cuban picadillo de pavo is the move. The Latin flavors of this traditional dish are out of this world (kinda like my Cuban arroz imperial or my arroz con camarones).

Think savory, bold, saucy, comforting, and delicious!

What is Picadillo de Pavo?

In case you’re new here or have never heard of Cuban picadillo [pronounced pee-ca-dee-yo], it’s a classic Cuban dish made with ground beef, tomato sauce, raisins, olives, and lots of spices.

This recipe is an alternative to the traditional Cuban picadillo made with ground turkey instead of ground beef. It’s just as flavorful as the authentic version. Never spicy, always delicious!

You can serve it over white rice just like you do with Cuban picadillo. And it’s an easy-to-make Cuban main dish!

“Hubby and I cooked this recipe… This recipe is incredibly easy and I will be cooking it tomorrow while I watch the Bachelor for my lunch the rest of the week. I am Cuban and feel I can cook Cuban food thanks to you! Xoxo” —Tanya
turkey picadillo cooked in a skillet

Skillet

A 10-inch skillet perfect for cooking all kinds of dishes! It’s non-stick, with a wide flat bottom for frying, sautéing, or browning.

When you’re done with this recipe, make another one of my delicious Cuban dinners!

Serving Tips

Turkey picadillo is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few of my faves:

Storage Tips

Make sure the turkey picadillo is cooled then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating and serving.

P.S. You can totally make a double batch of this recipe and place it in the freezer for later!

easy turkey picadillo on a white plate with sliced avocados and white rice

Can’t wait for you guys to make it!

Recipe

30 Minute Turkey Picadillo (Cuban Picadillo de Pavo)

Turkey Picadillo is a flavorful alternative of the traditional Cuban picadillo dish. Made with ground turkey, Cuban sofrito, and a tomato-based sauce with spices and Spanish olives, this is the perfect weeknight meal that cooks in less than 30 minutes!

  • Serves 6 servings
  • Prep 10 minutes
  • Cook 20 minutes
  • Total 30 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1/2 cup diced green pepper
  • 1/4 cup diced jarred red pimientos
  • 3-4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 lb ground turkey (make sure it's dark meat)
  • 1/3 cup vino seco (dry cooking wine)
  • 6 ounces tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste (start with 1/4 teaspoon then adjust from there)
  • 1/4 cup Spanish olives (cut in half)

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add onions, green peppers, pimientos, and sauté for 2-3 minutes or until softened. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.

  2. 2

    Next, add ground turkey and cook, breaking the meat apart, until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Reduce the heat down to medium-low.

  3. 3

    Stir in cooking wine, tomato sauce, cumin, oregano, and, salt + pepper to taste. Simmer for 10-12 minutes. Stir in olives. Serve with white rice. Enjoy!

Nutrition

  • Serving1 serving
  • Calories209 kcal
  • Carbohydrates19 g
  • Protein28 g
  • Fat3 g
  • Saturated Fat1 g
  • Cholesterol62 mg
  • Sodium350 mg
  • Potassium673 mg
  • Fiber3 g
  • Sugar3 g
  • Vitamin A283 IU
  • Vitamin C17 mg
  • Calcium29 mg
  • Iron2 mg