Carne Guisada (Slow-Cooked Beef Stew)


A Tex-Mex classic that’s rich, tender, and packed with bold flavor!

If you’re craving a deeply savory, slow-simmered stew that fills your kitchen with the most mouthwatering aroma, Carne Guisada is calling your name! This classic dish features melt-in-your-mouth beef cooked low and slow in a robust tomato-based gravy infused with warm spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika.

Served with fluffy rice, warm tortillas, or even tucked into a taco, this dish is comfort food perfection — hearty, flavorful, and full of Latin soul.


Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (any color you like!)
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1½ cups beef broth
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish

How to Make Carne Guisada

1️⃣ Brown the Beef

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Working in batches, sear the beef cubes on all sides until browned. This step builds flavor, so take your time! Remove the beef and set aside.


2️⃣ Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add onions, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Add the diced tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring well to combine. Cook for 2–3 minutes to deepen the flavor.


3️⃣ Simmer Low and Slow

Return the browned beef to the skillet. Pour in the beef broth, then add chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and the bay leaves.
Bring everything to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, and cover. Let cook for 1½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fork-tender and the sauce is thick and rich.


4️⃣ Finish and Serve

Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaves and sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top.

Serve hot with:

  • Steamed rice
  • Flour tortillas
  • Or spooned into tacos or burritos for an unforgettable meal!

Tips & Variations

  • Make it spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne for heat.
  • Thicker sauce? Simmer uncovered for the last 20 minutes or mash a few cubes of beef into the sauce.
  • No fresh tomatoes? Use canned diced tomatoes in a pinch.
  • Make-ahead magic: This stew tastes even better the next day—perfect for meal prep!

Storage & Reheating

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze in meal-sized portions for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or microwave until heated through.

What to Serve With Carne Guisada

  • Mexican rice or white rice
  • Refried beans or black beans
  • Warm tortillas or cornbread
  • Pickled onions or sliced avocado for a fresh contrast

Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4–6

This Carne Guisada is the definition of comfort in a bowl — warm, savory, and made with love. Perfect for Sunday dinner or an easy freezer-friendly meal to keep on hand.


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