When it comes to Mexican cuisine, there’s one ingredient that stands out as a staple: carne molida. This rich and flavorful ground beef is the perfect base for a variety of delicious dishes. From classic tacos and enchiladas to hearty chilies and casseroles, carne molida can do it all. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of carne molida. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy and adventurous or comforting and familiar, there’s a dish on this list that’s sure to hit the spot.
Read on to discover our top picks for delicious carne molida recipes…
Classic Mexican Picadillo with Carne Molida
This traditional recipe from Mexico’s Yucatan region is a flavorful and hearty ground beef mixture, perfect for tacos, burritos, or serving as a main course. With its rich aroma and deep flavor, it’s no wonder this picadillo has become a beloved staple in Mexican cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of 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 and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Add the chopped tomatoes and stir to combine.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Carne Molida Tacos with Fresh Salsa
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful recipe featuring tender ground beef, bold spices, and a zesty fresh salsa. Perfect for any occasion, these tacos are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Fresh Salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
Fresh Salsa:
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Combine ingredients in a bowl. Stir well and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Carne Molida Stuffed Bell Peppers
Savor the rich flavors of Latin America with this easy-to-make recipe for Carne Molida Stuffed Bell Peppers. This dish combines tender beef, savory spices, and sweet bell peppers in a delightful harmony.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef (Carne Molida)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
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 onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, leaving room for rice.
6. Top each pepper with cooked rice, drizzle with olive oil, and cover with foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hearty Carne Molida Chili with Beans
This comforting chili recipe combines the rich flavors of beef, beans, and spices for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the water and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the chili has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Carne Molida and Potato Empanadas
Elevate your snack game with these savory empanadas filled with tender Carne Molida and creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for a quick bite or as an appetizer, these empanadas are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup Carne Molida (shredded beef cooked with onions, garlic, and spices)
– 1 large potato, peeled and mashed
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out empanada dough to desired thickness.
3. Place a spoonful of Carne Molida in the center of each circle.
4. Top with mashed potatoes and grated cheese.
5. Fold empanadas into triangles or squares, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carne Molida Lasagna with Zucchini Noodles
This recipe combines the richness of carne molida (ground beef) with the simplicity and healthiness of zucchini noodles, creating a unique and delicious twist on traditional lasagna.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 zucchinis
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ground beef in a pan until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Combine tomato sauce with cooked meat mixture; season with salt and pepper.
5. Slice zucchinis into noodle-like strips; cook in microwave or sauté until tender.
6. Assemble lasagna by layering cooked meat mixture, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and zucchini noodles.
7. Top with Parmesan cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Carne Molida and Rice Stuffed Tomatoes
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed tomatoes, this recipe combines the richness of carne molida (ground beef) with the comfort of rice. Perfect for a hearty meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes
– 1 pound ground beef (carne molida)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add the ground beef, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking up with a spoon, until the meat is fully cooked.
5. Stir in the cooked rice.
6. Stuff each tomato with the meat-rice mixture, filling to the top.
7. Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carne Molida and Black Bean Enchiladas
This recipe combines the rich flavors of tender beef and black beans with a blend of spices, wrapped in tortillas and smothered in a savory tomato sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef (Carne Molida)
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook until the mixture is fully browned.
4. Stir in black beans and tomato sauce.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble enchiladas by spooning beef mixture onto a tortilla, rolling up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and top with cheese (if using); return to oven for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Carne Molida Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Potatoes
A twist on the classic shepherd’s pie, this recipe combines tender ground beef with rich mole sauce and creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty, comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup Carne Molida (Mexican-style browned ground beef)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 3-4 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
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 as it cooks.
3. Add Carne Molida, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes with green chilies, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is well combined and heated through.
4. Boil chopped potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with milk or heavy cream and butter.
5. Transfer the beef mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes and smooth out the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Carne Molida and Cornbread Casserole
A hearty casserole that combines the rich flavors of Carne Molida (ground beef) with the comforting warmth of cornbread.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup canned condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. In a separate bowl, prepare cornbread mix according to package instructions.
6. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
7. Layer cooked ground beef mixture, then cornbread mixture in the prepared baking dish.
8. Top with chopped cilantro (if using) and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carne Molida and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and satisfying recipe, featuring tender carne molida (shredded beef) and wilted spinach wrapped in jumbo shells.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ground beef (carne molida)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook shells according to package directions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium-high heat; drain excess fat.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
5. Stir in spinach, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg; season with salt and pepper.
6. Stuff cooked pasta shells with the meat mixture.
7. Place shells in a baking dish, cover with marinara sauce, and top with mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Carne Molida and Cheese Quesadillas with Guacamole
A Mexican-inspired twist on classic quesadillas, these Carne Molida and cheese-filled tortillas are served with a creamy guacamole dip for the ultimate snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup Carne Molida (shredded beef)
– 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with cheese, Carne Molida, cilantro, and jalapeño.
3. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
5. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
7. Serve warm with guacamole dip (mash avocado in a bowl, add salt and pepper to taste).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Carne Molida and Lentil Soup with Cilantro
This rich and flavorful soup is a staple of Latin American cuisine, made with tender carne molida (shredded beef), nutritious lentils, and fresh cilantro. Perfect for a cozy evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound carne molida (shredded beef)
– 2 cups brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the carne molida, lentils, chicken broth, onion, garlic, cumin, and paprika.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Carne Molida and Sweet Potato Hash
This recipe combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked beef with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, creating a satisfying breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket or chuck roast
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the beef with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook the beef in a slow cooker or Dutch oven for 8-10 hours until tender.
4. Roast the sweet potatoes in the oven for 45-50 minutes until caramelized.
5. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in olive oil until softened.
6. Combine the cooked beef, roasted sweet potatoes, and sautéed onion mixture.
7. Add lime juice to taste (optional).
8. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 hours (including slow cooker time)
Carne Molida and Egg Breakfast Burritos
Start your day with a flavorful twist on traditional breakfast burritos, featuring tender carne molida (shredded beef) and scrambled eggs wrapped in a warm flour tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb carne molida (shredded beef)
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 flour tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Salsa or hot sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the carne molida in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, and pepper. Scramble the eggs in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño to the scrambled eggs and cook until vegetables are softened.
4. Warm flour tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble burritos by filling warmed tortillas with carne molida, scrambled egg mixture, and shredded cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately with salsa or hot sauce (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carne Molida and Pasta Bolognese Sauce
This classic Italian dish combines tender ground beef with a rich tomato-based sauce, served over al dente pasta. With its deep flavors and satisfying heartiness, Carne Molida and Pasta Bolognese Sauce is a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or pappardelle)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, and carrot; cook until the vegetables are softened.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, red wine, tomato paste, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer sauce for 20-30 minutes or until thickened.
6. Serve Carne Molida over cooked pasta, topped with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Carne Molida and Plantain Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the rich flavors of shredded beef, sweet plantains, and crispy cheese for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Carne Molida (shredded beef), heated through
– 3 ripe plantains, sliced into 1-inch rounds
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the plantain slices and cook for 5 minutes, or until they start to brown.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the Carne Molida, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the plantains in an even layer.
6. Top with the beef mixture, then sprinkle with half of the cheese.
7. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carne Molida and Avocado Tostadas
This recipe combines tender shredded beef with creamy avocado and crispy tortillas, perfect for a flavorful snack or light meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying these delicious tostadas in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 corn tortillas
– 2 ripe avocados, sliced
– Lime wedges, for serving
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, or diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, brown the beef and onion over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic, beef broth, and tomato paste. Cover and simmer for 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
4. Shred the beef with two forks and season with salt and pepper.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tostadas by spooning shredded beef onto tortillas, topping with avocado slices, and serving with lime wedges.
Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these delicious Carne Molida recipes! From classic Mexican dishes like Picadillo and Tacos, to comforting casseroles and soups, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at stuffed peppers, empanadas, lasagna, and more. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty chili or a flavorful quesadilla, these recipes are sure to satisfy. With Carne Molida as the star of the show, you’ll be cooking up a storm in no time.
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