Carne Guisada Recipe

If you’re searching for pure comfort in a bowl, Carne Guisada is the savory beef stew your soul needs. This Tex-Mex classic transforms humble ingredients into a meal that’s deeply rich, loaded with tender beef, and brimming with home-cooked goodness.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Despite its complex, rich flavor, Carne Guisada is all about everyday ingredients working in harmony. Each element plays a vital role in building those signature savory notes and hearty texture that make this stew unforgettable.

• Chuck steak: This cut is marbled and perfect for stewing; it breaks down into juicy, tender bites as it simmers.
• Oil: For browning the beef and helping the aromatics release all their flavor; any neutral oil works here.
• Onion: Chopped onions give the stew sweetness and depth.
• Bell pepper: Adds color and a hint of earthiness; green or red peppers both shine.
• Garlic: A must-have for warmth and punchiness in every spoonful.
• Tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and adds a touch of tangy richness to the sauce.
• Fresh tomatoes: Diced tomatoes make the broth velvety and naturally thickened.
• All-purpose flour: This is the magic thickener, helping the stew get irresistibly silky as it simmers.
• Salt and pepper: Enhances and balances all the bold flavors at play.
• Cumin: The secret to the stew’s signature Tex-Mex smokiness!
• Chili powder: Adds gentle warmth and depth, not just heat.
• Beef broth: Gives the stew savory backbone and keeps the meat ultra-juicy.

Variations

One of my favorite things about Carne Guisada is how effortlessly it can be tweaked for your pantry, preferences, and family traditions. Don’t be afraid to make this stew your own—there’s plenty of room for creativity!

• Make it spicy: Toss in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to bring some heat to the party.
• Veggie-packed: Add carrots, potatoes, or even peas for a heartier, more colorful stew (and an easy way to use up stray veggies).
• Tomato twist: Swap out the fresh tomatoes for fire-roasted canned tomatoes for an extra layer of smokiness.
• Lean it up: Try substituting the chuck steak with leaner cuts like round steak or even boneless pork shoulder for a lighter spin.
• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken your gravy instead of all-purpose flour.

How to Make Carne Guisada

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating the oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and golden—this is where the foundation of flavor really starts. Add the minced garlic and let it cook just until fragrant, soaking up all that warmth without burning.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add the cubed chuck steak straight into the pot, spreading it out so each piece touches the pan. Cook the beef until it’s beautifully browned on all sides. This step seals in the juices and gives the stew a deep, savory backbone—it’s worth taking your time here!

Step 3: Add Peppers, Tomatoes, and Paste

Toss in the bell pepper and cook for a few minutes until it begins to soften. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute to let it caramelize a bit, then add the diced tomatoes. This combo brings brightness and a touch of tang to the rich stew base.

Step 4: Flour and Spice It Up

Sprinkle the flour over everything in the pot and stir well. The flour thickens the gravy as it cooks, so make sure it’s all fully mixed in. Now, add the salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder—don’t be shy! This is the moment when Carne Guisada gets its irresistible flavor and unmistakable Tex-Mex magic.

Step 5: Simmer Low and Slow

Pour in the beef broth, stir, and bring the whole pot to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let your Carne Guisada work its slow-cooked magic for two hours. Stir occasionally and add a little water if the stew gets too thick—by the end, your beef will be unbelievably fork-tender and your kitchen will smell incredible.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once your meat is tender and your gravy is perfect, ladle the Carne Guisada into bowls and finish with a generous shower of chopped cilantro. Every bite will be rich, comforting, and layered with Tex-Mex flavor—total dinnertime bliss!

How to Serve Carne Guisada

Garnishes

The right finishing touches turn a good stew into a great one! A sprinkle of chopped cilantro brings freshness and bright color, while a squeeze of lime or a few slices of fresh jalapeño can wake up every spoonful with a kick. If you love creamy toppings, don’t hesitate to plop on a spoonful of sour cream or a crumble of queso fresco.

Side Dishes

Carne Guisada begs to be scooped up with warm flour tortillas, but it’s also divine over fluffy rice, with a side of refried beans, or paired with simple roasted veggies. Mop up every drop of that velvety sauce—it’s too delicious to leave behind!

Creative Ways to Present

Try loading Carne Guisada into taco shells, spooning it inside baked potatoes, or serving as the filling for hearty breakfast burritos. For parties, set out a stew bar with toppings and warm tortillas, or pile it onto nachos for a Tex-Mex twist that’ll wow a crowd.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your leftover Carne Guisada cool to room temperature, then transfer it into an airtight container. It will stay fresh and delicious in the fridge for up to a week—perfect for meal prep and quick dinners.

Freezing

This stew freezes like a dream! Once cooled completely, portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready for another round of comfort food.

Reheating

Gently reheat Carne Guisada on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring often to keep it from sticking. A splash of water or broth will refresh the sauce if it thickens in the fridge. The microwave works too—heat in short intervals and stir in between until piping hot.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never made Carne Guisada at home, now’s the perfect time to cozy up with a pot of this soulful stew. It’s hearty, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to make your kitchen smell incredible. Dive in—your next family favorite is waiting!

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