Carne Con Papas is a hearty and comforting dish featuring tender beef simmered with soft, flavorful potatoes. This classic combination brings together rich, meaty goodness and the warmth of home-cooked simplicity, making it a perfect choice for any day when you want something satisfying and easy to love.
I always think of this dish as a cozy hug on a plate. The slow-cooked beef gets so tender it almost melts in your mouth, and the potatoes absorb all those savory juices, turning every bite into a little bit of happiness. When I make Carne Con Papas, I like to add a touch of paprika or fresh herbs to give it a subtle lift that keeps it feeling fresh but still familiar.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy Carne Con Papas is with a side of warm bread or a simple green salad. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together around the table, perfect for sharing and savoring those classic flavors that never fail to satisfy. Whenever I make this, it reminds me of family dinners where everyone leaves the table feeling full and content.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: This cut is perfect because it becomes tender when simmered slowly. If you can’t find stew meat, chuck roast cut into chunks works well too. For a leaner option, consider using beef sirloin, but cook it gently to keep it tender.
Potatoes: I recommend using starchy potatoes like Russets as they absorb flavors and become soft without falling apart. Yukon Golds are a great choice too; they hold their shape nicely. You can swap with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet twist.
Tomatoes: Fresh diced tomatoes add bright freshness, but canned crushed tomatoes work just as well for convenience. If you prefer, tomato sauce can be used for a smoother base.
Spices: Paprika and cumin bring warmth and depth to the dish. Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor if you want to mix it up. Feel free to adjust spice levels to your taste.
How Do You Get Tender Beef and Flavorful Potatoes in Carne Con Papas?
Slow simmering is the key to tender beef and perfectly cooked potatoes in this dish. Here’s how I do it:
- Brown the beef well first to lock in juices and add flavor—don’t rush this step.
- After adding liquids and spices, simmer covered on low heat to allow meat to become tender—this usually takes 45 minutes to an hour.
- Add potatoes later so they cook through but don’t turn mushy. Keep the heat gentle and check often as potatoes can overcook quickly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning at the end to get the right balance of salt and spice.
This slow and steady cooking method makes the beef melt in your mouth and the potatoes soak up all those rich, comforting flavors.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or Dutch oven – I like using a deep pan to brown the beef and simmer everything in one pot, making cleanup easier.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – for chopping onions, garlic, potatoes, and tomatoes easily and safely.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – helps stir ingredients without damaging the pan.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for spices and liquids, ensuring precise flavors.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Switch beef for pork or chicken to change the protein; longer cooking may be needed for pork.
- Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Mix in some chopped bell peppers or carrots for extra vegetables and crunch.
- Finish with a squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a fresh twist before serving.
Carne Con Papas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) beef stew meat, cut into chunks
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced or 1/2 cup canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and browning the beef and vegetables, plus around 65 minutes for simmering to make the beef tender and cook the potatoes perfectly. So, plan for approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks and cook them until browned on all sides, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step adds great flavor, so don’t skip it!
2. Cooking the Aromatics:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté them until they become soft and smell wonderful, about 3 to 4 minutes.
3. Adding Tomatoes and Spices:
Mix in the diced tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes), paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to let the flavors blend.
4. Simmering the Beef:
Pour in the beef broth or water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the beef simmer gently for about 45 minutes, or until it becomes nice and tender.
5. Cooking the Potatoes:
Add the cubed potatoes to the pot. Cover again and keep simmering for another 20 to 25 minutes until the potatoes are tender but still hold their shape.
6. Final Taste and Serve:
Give it a quick taste and add more salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley for a lovely fresh touch. Enjoy your comforting Carne Con Papas!
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef stew meat, but be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking to ensure even cooking and tenderness.
Can I Substitute Potatoes with Another Vegetable?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes or carrots make great substitutions and add a nice twist. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they become tender without turning mushy.
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.
Can I Make Carne Con Papas Ahead of Time?
Definitely! This dish tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to meld. Refrigerate overnight and reheat gently before serving.
