Name: Carne con Papas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 20 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: Latin
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into chunks; 1 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1 cup tomato sauce; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 bay leaf; 2 cups beef broth; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

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I love making Carne con Papas when I want something hearty, comforting, and full of rich flavor. This classic Latin dish combines tender beef and soft potatoes simmered in a savory tomato-based sauce. I find it perfect for family dinners because it feels both simple and deeply satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I appreciate how this recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients but delivers bold, comforting flavor. I enjoy how the beef becomes incredibly tender as it simmers, and the potatoes soak up all the delicious sauce. I also like that it’s a one-pot meal, which makes cleanup easy and keeps all the flavors beautifully blended together.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into chunks
salt
black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 cup tomato sauce
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 bay leaf
2 cups beef broth
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Directions

I season the beef chunks with salt and black pepper.
I heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat and brown the beef on all sides. I remove it and set it aside.
In the same pot, I sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened and fragrant.
I stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, cumin, oregano, and bay leaf.
I return the beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth. I bring everything to a gentle boil.
I reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the beef starts to become tender.
I add the cubed potatoes and continue simmering for another 20–25 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender and the sauce thickens.
I remove the bay leaf and stir in fresh cilantro before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add carrots or peas for extra color and sweetness. When I want a bit of heat, I include a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes. I also enjoy making it in a slow cooker by browning the beef first, then cooking everything on low for 6–8 hours. If I prefer a richer sauce, I let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to thicken.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I find that the flavors deepen the next day, which I really enjoy. When reheating, I warm it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. I can also reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

I like using beef chuck because it becomes tender with slow cooking, but I can also use stew meat or beef round if that’s what I have on hand.

Can I make Carne con Papas ahead of time?

I often make it a day in advance because the flavors develop even more overnight. I simply reheat it before serving.

What can I serve with Carne con Papas?

I enjoy serving it with white rice, warm tortillas, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Can I freeze Carne con Papas?

I freeze it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. I thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

I let it simmer uncovered to reduce naturally. If I need a quicker fix, I mash a few potato pieces into the sauce to help thicken it.

Conclusion

I find Carne con Papas to be one of the most comforting and reliable meals I can prepare. The tender beef, soft potatoes, and rich, seasoned sauce come together in a way that always feels satisfying. It’s a dish I turn to when I want something warm, filling, and full of homemade flavor.