Carne Guisada (Slow-Cooked Beef Stew)
A bold and comforting Tex-Mex classic simmered to perfection!
Tender chunks of beef, slow-simmered in a savory tomato-based sauce with warm spices and vibrant peppers — that’s the magic of Carne Guisada. This beloved Tex-Mex stew is rich, hearty, and absolutely packed with flavor. Serve it over fluffy rice or wrap it up in warm tortillas for a soul-soothing dinner the whole family will devour.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a make-ahead meal to impress, this beefy, saucy classic never disappoints!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deep, rich flavor from the slow simmer
- Customizable heat level — make it as mild or spicy as you like
- Perfect for tacos, rice bowls, or burritos
- Great for leftovers — the flavor gets even better the next day!
Ingredients
- 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)
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1½ cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 bay leaves
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
How to Make Carne Guisada
1. Brown the Beef
In a large Dutch oven or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
Sear the beef chunks in batches, browning them well on all sides.
Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper.
Sauté for about 5 minutes, until soft and fragrant.
Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste, and cook for 2–3 more minutes to deepen the flavor.
3. Simmer Until Tender
Return the browned beef to the pot.
Add beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and bay leaves.
Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
Cover and cook for 1½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the sauce is thick and luscious.
4. Finish & Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Discard the bay leaves.
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.
Serving Ideas
- With rice: Classic and hearty.
- In tacos: Load it into tortillas with cheese and avocado.
- Over mashed potatoes: A Tex-Mex twist on comfort food.
- With beans and cornbread: Pure Southern soul!
Recipe Notes
- Want it spicier? Add a diced jalapeño or a splash of hot sauce with the tomatoes.
- Thicker gravy? Simmer uncovered for the last 15 minutes or mash a few chunks of beef into the sauce.
- Leftovers? This stew tastes even better the next day. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Nutrition Info
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Total Time: ~2 hours 15 minutes
- Calories: ~420 per serving (serves 4–6)
Carne Guisada is the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with the coziest aroma and brings people running to the table. It’s hearty, flavorful, and endlessly versatile — just one bite and you’ll see why it’s a beloved favorite across Texas and beyond!
Tag your delicious stews with #SlowCookedComfort — I’d love to see your take on it!
