Ah, Carne Guisada! Just saying the name conjures up cozy memories of family gatherings, fragrant spices wafting through the kitchen, and the unmistakable warmth that comes from a pot of simmering stew. Growing up in a household that celebrated rich, flavorful dishes, this Mexican beef stew was a staple that always brought a smile to my face. I can still hear the sizzle of the meat hitting a hot pan and the playful chatter of my family around the dinner table, all eagerly anticipating that comforting meal. Whether it’s a breezy autumn evening or a busy weeknight, this Crock Pot Carne Guisada is my go-to choice for satisfying both belly and soul.
Not only does this recipe deliver deep, savory flavors that embrace you on every spoonful, but it also lets your slow cooker do most of the hard work. So grab a comfy chair, snuggle up, and let’s dive into this warm, comforting dish that you’ll want to make over and over again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy weeknight dinner: Just toss in the ingredients and let the Crock Pot do the magic.
- Budget-friendly: Made with affordable cuts of beef, this recipe won’t break the bank.
- Comforting flavors: The rich sauce and tender beef will warm your heart and soul.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as is, with rice, in tacos, or over mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this fabulous stew!
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning the meat)
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced (fresh garlic adds more punch than powdered!)
- 2 green bell peppers, diced
- 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Warmed tortillas, for serving (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s make some magic happen! Follow these steps for cozy Carne Guisada perfection.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed beef and brown it on all sides (about 4-5 minutes). This step builds that deep flavor and caramelization you’ll love. Don’t rush it!
- Prep the Veggies: While the beef is browning, chop your onion and bell peppers. Fresh veggie crunch is a great contrast to the tender meat.
- Mix It All Together: Once the beef is nicely browned, transfer it to your slow cooker. Add the browned beef, onion, bell peppers, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, oregano, paprika, bay leaves, and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper. Give it a gentle stir—not too vigorous or you might break up that beautiful beef.
- Set the Slow Cooker: Put the lid on your slow cooker and set it to low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. I usually choose low because it allows the flavors to deepen, making it all the more delicious. The aroma will take over your kitchen, so be prepared to be tempted!
- Final Touch: Once the cooking time is up, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Discard the bay leaves before serving. The beef should be so tender it practically melts in your mouth!

Pro Tips & Variations
Here are some playful twists you can try with this recipe:
- Spicy Kick: Add a couple of sliced jalapeños or a tablespoon of chipotle sauce for some heat!
- Herb Boost: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can add an extra layer of flavor. Add them in the last half hour of cooking!
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the beef for hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Serving Suggestions
Carne Guisada is the kind of dish that’s perfect for gathering around the table with loved ones. Serve it steaming hot over a bed of fluffy rice or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. Add a side of warm tortillas for a delightful taco experience, or go the traditional route with a simple salad to balance the richness. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top adds a pop of color and fresh flavor, making it look as good as it tastes!

Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (though I won’t judge if you gobble it all up!), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigeration: Let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
- Freezing: This stew freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers, allowing space at the top for expansion, and it will last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, or use the microwave, stirring halfway to ensure even heating. Add a splash of beef broth if it seems too thick!
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While chuck roast is perfect for stews due to its rich flavor and tenderness, you can also use brisket, round, or even flank steak. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut.
Can I make this on the stovetop instead?
Yes! If you’re short on time, you can make Carne Guisada on the stovetop. After browning the meat, add all the ingredients to a large pot and simmer covered for about 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender, stirring occasionally.
What can I add to make it thicker?
If you like a thicker sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour with cold water to form a slurry and add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Just give it a good stir and let it thicken up!
What sides go well with Carne Guisada?
Oh, so many options! Try serving it with white rice, warm tortillas, or creamy mashed potatoes. A side of black beans or a fresh green salad also works beautifully to balance the richness of the stew.
Conclusion
There you have it, dear friends! A delightful and comforting Crock Pot Carne Guisada that’s not only easy to make but packed full of flavor. I hope you find this recipe as heartwarming and delicious as my family does. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you—feel free to share your experiences or variations in the comments below! Happy cooking!

Savory Crock Pot Carne Guisada Mexican Beef Stew Recipe
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Discover a flavorful Crock Pot Carne Guisada a musttry Mexican beef stew recipe perfect for family dinners Easy prep rich taste
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
A delightful and comforting Crock Pot Carne Guisada that’s not only easy to make but packed full of flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g





Leave a Comment