Carne Con Papas is a classic comfort dish that brings together tender chunks of beef and hearty potatoes in a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s all about simple ingredients coming together to make something wonderfully satisfying and warm. The beef is slow-cooked until it’s melt-in-your-mouth soft, while the potatoes soak up all the savory juices, making each bite a perfect mix of meatiness and warmth.
I love making Carne Con Papas when I want something that feels like a big, warm hug on a plate. It’s one of those recipes that fills the house with a mouthwatering aroma that instantly makes you feel at home. What I really enjoy is how versatile it is—you can keep it straightforward or add your favorite spices and veggies to make it your own. I usually like to sprinkle a little fresh cilantro on top at the end for a bright pop of flavor.
For me, the best way to enjoy Carne Con Papas is with a side of warm, crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy white rice. It’s the kind of meal that works well for dinner with family or for leftovers that taste even better the next day. Every time I make it, it reminds me of cozy meals shared with loved ones, where the food brings everyone together and fills the room with laughter and good vibes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: This cut is great because it becomes tender when cooked slowly. If you can’t find stew meat, chuck roast cut into cubes works well too.
Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for fluffy, soft results. If you want firmer potatoes, try red potatoes instead.
Spices: Cumin and paprika add warmth and color. If you like spice, keep the chili powder; otherwise, leave it out or add a pinch of smoked paprika for a different flavor.
Beef Broth vs. Water: Broth adds more flavor, but water works fine if you don’t have broth on hand. Just be sure to season well.
How Can I Make the Beef Tender and Flavorful?
Tender beef is key to this recipe. Here are some tips:
- Brown the beef well on all sides before stewing. This adds flavor and helps lock in juices.
- Cook the beef low and slow, simmering covered for at least 1 ½ hours. Patience here pays off.
- Adding a bay leaf and sautéed onions/garlic infuses the meat with savory taste.
- Use a heavy pot or Dutch oven to maintain even heat, helping the meat cook tenderly.
Following these steps ensures your beef will be soft and full of flavor, making Carne Con Papas truly comforting.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven – I recommend this because it heats evenly and keeps the stew at a steady simmer.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping the beef, onions, garlic, and potatoes comfortably.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to ensure accurate spice and liquid amounts.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – perfect for stirring and scraping the tasty bits from the bottom.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap beef stew meat for pork shoulder or chicken thighs for different protein options—each adds new flavors and textures.
- Add chopped bell peppers or carrots along with potatoes for extra veggies and color.
- Stir in a splash of soy sauce or lime juice at the end for a tangy twist.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime before serving for fresh, bright flavor enhancements.
How to Make Carne Con Papas?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into cubes
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, then about 1 ½ hours of slow simmering to make the beef tender, plus an additional 20-30 minutes for cooking the potatoes. Overall, plan for around 2 hours from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics and Spices:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring to avoid burning. Then, stir in the cumin, paprika, chili powder (if using), and oregano. Cook the spices for about a minute until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Beef:
Return the beef to the pot and stir to coat with the spices and onion mixture. Pour in the beef broth or water, and add the bay leaf. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer gently for about 1 ½ hours, or until the beef is tender.
4. Add and Cook the Potatoes:
Once the beef is tender, add the potato chunks to the pot. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then gently stir to combine. Cover the pot and cook for another 20-30 minutes until the potatoes are soft and infused with all the flavors.
5. Final Touches and Serving:
Remove the bay leaf from the stew before serving. Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top for a fresh, vibrant touch. Serve the Carne Con Papas hot, ideally with warm bread or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef stew meat, but make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps the meat brown properly and cook evenly.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
To add more heat, increase the chili powder or include a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onions. You could also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or serve with hot sauce on the side.
Can I Prepare Carne Con Papas in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, adding the potatoes during the last hour.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally for even heating.