If you’re craving something warm, savory, and full of bold flavor, Carne Guisada with Flour Tortillas is the ultimate comfort food. This Tex-Mex favorite features tender beef chunks simmered in a rich, spiced gravy until melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Wrapped up in soft, homemade (or store-bought) flour tortillas, it’s a meal that feels like a big hug on a plate.
Perfect for family dinners, special weekends, or casual gatherings, carne guisada is hearty, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.
1. Why You’ll Love Carne Guisada with Flour Tortillas
Carne guisada isn’t just another beef stew — it’s a bold, flavorful dish with tons of character. Here’s why it stands out:
- Tender Beef: Slow-cooked until perfectly tender and juicy.
- Flavorful Gravy: Rich and thick, packed with spices, onions, and peppers.
- Perfect for Wrapping: The stew-like texture makes it ideal for scooping into soft tortillas.
- Comforting and Filling: This is a stick-to-your-ribs kind of meal — perfect for hearty appetites.
- Easy to Make Ahead: Carne guisada gets even better after sitting, making it great for meal prep.
2. Ingredients You’ll Need for Carne Guisada
A few simple, pantry-friendly ingredients come together to make this savory Tex-Mex masterpiece:
For the Carne Guisada:
- Beef Stew Meat: 2 pounds (cut into 1-inch cubes; chuck roast works great)
- Flour: 2 tablespoons (for thickening)
- Oil: 2 tablespoons (vegetable or canola oil)
- Onion: 1 large, diced
- Green Bell Pepper: 1 diced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Tomato Sauce: 1/2 cup
- Beef Broth: 2 cups
- Cumin: 2 teaspoons
- Chili Powder: 2 teaspoons
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon (smoked if you have it)
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
For the Flour Tortillas:
- Flour Tortillas: Store-bought or homemade (soft and warm)
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped cilantro
- Diced onions
- Shredded cheese
- Lime wedges
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Carne Guisada
1. Sear the Beef:
In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat oil over medium-high heat.
Add the beef cubes in batches and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté the diced onion and green bell pepper until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Build the Gravy:
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and peppers. Stir well to coat and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
4. Simmer the Beef:
Add the tomato sauce, beef broth, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Return the seared beef to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Slow Cook Until Tender:
Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Simmer gently for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fork-tender and the sauce is thickened.
(Tip: Add a splash more broth if it thickens too much.)
6. Serve with Tortillas:
Warm the flour tortillas. Spoon carne guisada into each tortilla, sprinkle with toppings if desired, and enjoy!
4. Tips for the Best Carne Guisada
- Choose the Right Beef: Chuck roast or stew meat has the fat and connective tissue needed for tender, flavorful results.
- Brown the Meat Well: Searing the beef locks in flavor — don’t skip this step!
- Low and Slow is Key: The longer you simmer, the more tender the beef becomes.
- Adjust the Spice: Add jalapeños, serranos, or chipotle powder if you want it spicier.
- Flour Tortillas Only: Corn tortillas don’t hold up as well with the hearty gravy — stick to soft, fluffy flour tortillas for the best experience.
5. Serving Ideas for Carne Guisada with Flour Tortillas
Carne guisada is super versatile — serve it up any of these tasty ways:
- Taco Style: Spoon into tortillas, top with shredded cheese and cilantro.
- Rice Bowls: Serve over steamed white or Spanish rice for a hearty meal.
- Breakfast: Top carne guisada with a fried egg and serve with tortillas for a Tex-Mex breakfast.
- Nachos: Spoon carne guisada over tortilla chips, add cheese, and broil until bubbly.
- Stuffed Potatoes: Spoon over a baked potato for an extra-hearty twist.
6. Nutritional Benefits (and Comfort Joy)
While hearty, carne guisada offers several nutritional perks:
- High Protein: Beef provides a solid source of protein for muscle building and energy.
- Rich in Iron: Great for energy and immune support.
- Veggie Boost: Onions and peppers add fiber and important vitamins.
- Homemade Goodness: Making it yourself means you control the ingredients — no preservatives, no fillers.
Plus, sometimes the best nourishment is a comforting, homemade meal shared with loved ones.
FAQs
- Can I make carne guisada in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours. - Can I freeze carne guisada?
Absolutely. Let it cool completely, pack into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. - Can I use different cuts of beef?
Yes, but cuts like chuck or shoulder roast are best for becoming tender through slow cooking. - How spicy is carne guisada?
As written, it’s mildly spiced. Feel free to adjust by adding extra chili powder or hot peppers. - Can I use pre-made gravy instead of flour and broth?
You could, but making the gravy from scratch gives the best, most authentic flavor. - What if my sauce is too thin?
Simmer uncovered for a little longer to let the liquid reduce and thicken naturally. - Can I add potatoes to the stew?
Yes! Diced potatoes added during the last 45 minutes of cooking turn it into a complete meal. - How do I reheat leftovers?
Warm gently on the stove over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. - Do I have to use flour tortillas?
They’re traditional because they hold up better, but you can use corn tortillas if you prefer. - What sides go well with carne guisada?
Mexican rice, refried beans, pico de gallo, or a simple green salad make great sides!
Carne Guisada with Flour Tortillas is the ultimate comfort food — rich, savory, and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a Tex-Mex night, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving something delicious, this dish is guaranteed to hit the spot every time!