If you love rich, comforting stews that are bursting with bold, savory flavors, then this Carne Guisada Recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food. Tender chunks of chuck steak simmered slowly with onions, peppers, and a perfect blend of spices create a mouthwatering dish that warms both the heart and the soul. This traditional favorite is surprisingly simple to make but packs a depth of flavor you won’t forget anytime soon. Whether you’re crafting a family dinner or wanting to impress friends with authentic, home-style cooking, this Carne Guisada Recipe delivers every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two black pans with wooden handles on a white marbled surface. In the left pan, there is one layer of finely chopped white onions spread evenly across the bottom. In the right pan, three layers can be seen: the same chopped white onions laying flat at the bottom, next to medium-sized chunks of raw red meat stacked in the middle, and a layer of finely chopped green bell peppers on the right side. The colors in the pans contrast clearly, with the white onions, red meat, and green peppers distinct and fresh-looking. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients come together effortlessly to create a stew that’s both hearty and vibrant. Each component plays a key role in balancing texture, flavor, and color to make the perfect carne guisada.

2 1/2 tablespoons oil: Essential for browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables, giving the stew a wonderful base flavor.
2 pounds chuck steak (cubed): The star of the dish, chuck is perfect for slow cooking because it becomes tender and juicy.
1 large onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and depth when softened, creating a tasty aroma that fills the kitchen.
1 large bell pepper (chopped): Brings subtle sweetness and a pop of color, harmonizing beautifully with the other ingredients.
3 cloves garlic (minced): Offers a fragrant punch that lifts the flavors to savory perfection.
1 tablespoon tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the stew just right.
2 large tomatoes (diced): Freshness and natural acidity that balance the richness of the meat.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps to thicken the sauce for that hearty consistency every stew needs.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and is key to a perfectly seasoned stew.
1/2 teaspoon pepper: Adds a mild heat that complements the spices without overwhelming.
1 teaspoon ground cumin: Gives a warm, earthy undertone that defines this classic Latin dish.
1 teaspoon chili powder: Introduces a gentle smoky spice, rounding out the robust taste profile.
2 cups beef broth: The liquid base that infuses the stew with rich, meaty flavor and allows the meat to slow cook to tenderness.

How to Make Carne Guisada Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating your oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the chopped onions and cook until they turn translucent, softening enough to release their natural sweetness. Then, add the minced garlic and stir for just a minute or two until your kitchen fills with that irresistible garlic aroma. This simple base builds a flavorful foundation for your Carne Guisada Recipe.

Step 2: Brown the Meat and Add Peppers

Next, add the cubed chuck steak to the pot. Brown it on all sides, which locks in juices and creates beautiful caramelized bits that intensify the stew’s depth. Once the meat is nicely browned, toss in the chopped bell peppers and cook them for a couple of minutes until they soften. These peppers add just the right crunch and sweetness to balance the rich meat.

Step 3: Mix in Tomato Paste and Fresh Tomatoes

Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for about a minute to deepen its flavor. Then, add the diced fresh tomatoes and cook everything together for a few minutes so the tomatoes start to break down and mingle with the meat and vegetables. This layer adds vibrant color and a slight tang that brightens the stew.

Step 4: Thicken and Season the Stew

Sprinkle the flour into the pot and stir it through until it’s fully incorporated and heated, which helps thicken the stew nicely. Pour in the beef broth and sprinkle in the salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. This is where the magic begins, allowing all the spices and flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Slow Simmer for Tender Meat

Cover your pot and let the stew simmer slowly for about two hours, stirring occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom. Keep an eye on the texture and add a little water if it gets too thick. This long, slow cooking is what turns the chuck steak mouthwateringly tender and allows the flavors to fully develop in our Carne Guisada Recipe.

Step 6: Serve Warm with Fresh Cilantro

When the meat is fork-tender and the stew has thickened to your liking, remove from heat and get ready to serve. For an extra burst of freshness and color, sprinkle chopped cilantro on top right before serving. It really lifts the dish and adds a lovely herbal contrast.

How to Serve Carne Guisada Recipe

The image shows a black cooking pot with wooden handles placed on a white marbled surface. Inside the pot, there is a thick orange-brown stew with chunks of meat and small pieces of vegetables like peas and carrots spread evenly throughout. On the right side of the image, the same pot contains the stew base with added bright orange and yellow powders of spices on the surface, slightly mixed in but still mostly distinct. Above the pot on the right side, there are two small white bowls with different spices, one of which has a spoon. The whole scene is lit softly with no harsh shadows, creating a clean and warm cooking setting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley are simple, classic garnishes that brighten every bite of your carne guisada. A squeeze of lime can also add a zesty finish, while some sliced jalapeños bring a little heat if you like things spicy. These small touches elevate the dish and add visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Carne guisada is delicious served over fluffy white rice or warm, soft flour tortillas that soak up all the flavorful sauce. Refried beans or black beans make excellent companions too, adding creaminess and protein. For a fresh side, try a crisp salad or pickled vegetables to provide contrast to the rich stew.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling adventurous, turn this Carne Guisada Recipe into a hearty filling for tacos, burritos, or even stuffed peppers. You can also layer it over baked potatoes for a comforting, family-style meal. For a fun twist, serve it with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese to add richness and texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer your leftover carne guisada into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day or two, making your leftovers just as tempting as freshly made.

Freezing

This stew freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results and reheat gently.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the carne guisada slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot throughout. Adding a splash of water or broth will keep the stew nice and saucy. Avoid microwaving too aggressively to maintain that tender texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this Carne Guisada Recipe?

Absolutely! While chuck steak is ideal for its tenderness when slow-cooked, you can also use beef brisket or sirloin tips. Just remember that some cuts may require slightly different cooking times to become perfectly tender.

Is this stew spicy?

This recipe has a mild to moderate level of spice thanks to the chili powder and pepper. You can easily adjust the heat by adding more chili powder or some fresh chilis if you like it hotter, or reduce them for a gentler flavor.

Can I make Carne Guisada in a slow cooker?

Definitely! After browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. This method yields an incredibly tender and flavorful stew with minimal hands-on time.

What can I use instead of tomato paste?

If you don’t have tomato paste on hand, you can substitute with tomato sauce or even a small amount of ketchup in a pinch. The flavor might be slightly different but still delicious.

How thick should the stew be?

The ideal carne guisada has a thick, gravy-like consistency that coats the meat and veggies. If it’s too thin, continue simmering uncovered to reduce the liquid. If too thick, add a bit more broth or water until it reaches the perfect texture.

Final Thoughts

This Carne Guisada Recipe is a timeless crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. The blend of tender beef, robust spices, and rich tomato flavors makes it a dish you’ll want to return to again and again. Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own by playing with garnishes and sides—just get ready for a delicious, soul-nourishing meal that feels like a big, warm hug from the inside out.