Burrito Bowls

Carne Guisada Burrito Bowl

Name: Carne Guisada Burrito Bowl
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 180 min
Total time: 210 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs (900g) beef brisket or beef shank, cut into large pieces; 1 large onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 dried ancho chiles, stemmed and seeded; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cups beef broth; 2 cups cooked white rice; 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

By Opal Ingram · June 19, 2026 · Burrito Bowls

Prep30 min

Cook180 min

Total210 min

Serves6

Carne Guisada Burrito Bowl — Savor the flavors of Mexico

As a second-generation Mexican-American, I grew up surrounded by the vibrant flavors and aromas of my family's traditional cooking. One of my favorite childhood meals was Carne Guisada, a hearty beef stew that simmered all day on the stovetop, filling our home with its rich, comforting scent. In this recipe, I'll show you how to transform this classic dish into a modern Carne Guisada Burrito Bowl, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The key to a great Carne Guisada is the slow-cooked beef, which becomes tender and flavorful after hours of simmering in a rich broth. To make it even more delicious, we'll add some sautéed onions, garlic, and dried chiles, which will add depth and complexity to the dish. And to make it a burrito bowl, we'll serve it over a bed of fluffy rice, topped with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream.

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves Mexican food and wants to try something new and exciting. It's also a great option for a crowd, as it makes a large batch of beef and broth that can be served with a variety of toppings. So go ahead, gather your friends and family, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and authentic Carne Guisada Burrito Bowl.

In this recipe, I'll guide you through every step of the process, from preparing the ingredients to cooking the beef and assembling the burrito bowls. I'll also share some tips and variations to help you make the dish your own and customize it to your taste. So let's get started and make some delicious Carne Guisada Burrito Bowls!

One of the things I love about this recipe is that it's perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner. The beef and broth can be cooked ahead of time, and the burrito bowls can be assembled just before serving. This makes it a great option for a busy family or a group of friends who want to enjoy a delicious meal together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
The Carne Guisada is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cold winter's night.
The burrito bowls are customizable, so everyone can add their favorite toppings.
The recipe makes a large batch of beef and broth, which can be used for multiple meals.
The dish is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.
The flavors are rich and complex, with a depth of flavor that is hard to find in other dishes.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great Carne Guisada is the slow-cooked beef, which becomes tender and flavorful after hours of simmering in a rich broth. The acidity in the tomatoes and the heat from the chiles help to break down the connective tissues in the meat, making it tender and easy to shred. The onions and garlic add a depth of flavor and aroma to the dish, while the cilantro and lime juice add a bright and freshness.

The technique of toasting the chiles and spices is also important, as it helps to bring out their natural flavors and aromas. This is a traditional Mexican technique that is used in many dishes, and it adds a rich and complex flavor to the Carne Guisada. By toasting the chiles and spices, we can bring out their natural oils and flavors, which helps to create a deep and satisfying flavor profile.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of a rich and flavorful broth. The beef broth is made with a combination of beef stock, tomatoes, and spices, which gives it a deep and satisfying flavor. The broth is also simmered for hours, which helps to reduce it and concentrate the flavors. This makes it perfect for serving over rice or with some crusty bread.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious Carne Guisada Burrito Bowl, you'll need a few ingredients, including beef, onions, garlic, dried chiles, and spices. The beef is the star of the show, so make sure to choose a cut that is tender and flavorful. The onions and garlic add a depth of flavor and aroma to the dish, while the chiles and spices add heat and complexity.

When shopping for the ingredients, look for fresh and high-quality produce. The beef should be lean and tender, with a good balance of fat and meat. The onions and garlic should be fresh and firm, with no signs of spoilage. The dried chiles should be fragrant and slightly flexible, with no signs of mold or decay.

2 lbs (900g) beef brisket or beef shank, cut into large piecesThe beef is the star of the show, so make sure to choose a cut that is tender and flavorful. Beef brisket or beef shank work well for this recipe, as they are both tough cuts that become tender and flavorful after slow-cooking.
1 large onion, dicedThe onions add a depth of flavor and aroma to the dish, so make sure to choose a fresh and firm onion. You can use any type of onion you like, but yellow or white onions work well for this recipe.
3 cloves garlic, mincedThe garlic adds a pungent flavor and aroma to the dish, so make sure to choose fresh and firm cloves. You can use any type of garlic you like, but elephant garlic or silverskin garlic work well for this recipe.
2 dried ancho chiles, stemmed and seededThe dried ancho chiles add a rich and slightly sweet flavor to the dish, so make sure to choose chiles that are fragrant and slightly flexible. You can use any type of dried chile you like, but ancho or guajillo chiles work well for this recipe.
1 teaspoon ground cuminThe cumin adds a warm and earthy flavor to the dish, so make sure to choose a high-quality spice. You can use any type of cumin you like, but Mexican or Indian cumin works well for this recipe.
1 teaspoon paprikaThe paprika adds a smoky and slightly sweet flavor to the dish, so make sure to choose a high-quality spice. You can use any type of paprika you like, but smoked or sweet paprika works well for this recipe.
1/2 teaspoon saltThe salt enhances the flavors of the dish, so make sure to choose a high-quality salt. You can use any type of salt you like, but kosher or sea salt works well for this recipe.
1/4 teaspoon black pepperThe black pepper adds a sharp and pungent flavor to the dish, so make sure to choose a high-quality pepper. You can use any type of pepper you like, but freshly ground black pepper works well for this recipe.
2 tablespoons olive oilThe olive oil is used to cook the onions and garlic, so make sure to choose a high-quality oil. You can use any type of oil you like, but olive or avocado oil works well for this recipe.
2 cups beef brothThe beef broth adds moisture and flavor to the dish, so make sure to choose a high-quality broth. You can use any type of broth you like, but homemade or store-bought beef broth works well for this recipe.
2 cups cooked white riceThe cooked white rice is used as a base for the burrito bowls, so make sure to choose a high-quality rice. You can use any type of rice you like, but white or brown rice works well for this recipe.
1 cup diced fresh tomatoesThe diced fresh tomatoes add a burst of freshness and flavor to the dish, so make sure to choose fresh and firm tomatoes. You can use any type of tomato you like, but cherry or grape tomatoes work well for this recipe.
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantroThe chopped fresh cilantro adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish, so make sure to choose fresh and fragrant cilantro. You can use any type of cilantro you like, but Mexican or Asian cilantro works well for this recipe.

Ingredients for Carne Guisada Burrito Bowl

Equipment You’ll Need

Large Dutch oven or heavy pot with a tight-fitting lidInstant-read thermometerSharp chef's knifeCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or spatula

How to Make Carne Guisada Burrito Bowl

1
Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C) on an instant-read thermometer.
2
Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until it is translucent and starting to caramelize, stirring occasionally, about 8-10 minutes.
3
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
4
Add the dried ancho chiles to the pot and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
5
Add the ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the pot and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
6
Add the beef to the pot and cook until it is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
7
Add the beef broth to the pot and bring to a boil.
8
Reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, until the beef is tender and the broth has reduced slightly, about 2-3 hours.
9
Shred the beef with two forks and return it to the pot.
10
Stir in the diced fresh tomatoes and cook until they are heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
11
To assemble the burrito bowls, place a scoop of cooked white rice in the bottom of a bowl, followed by a portion of the Carne Guisada, some diced fresh tomatoes, and a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro.
12
Serve the burrito bowls immediately, with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, shredded cheese, and diced avocado.

Expert Tips

Use a high-quality beef broth to add depth and richness to the dish.
Don't overcook the beef, as it can become tough and dry.
Use a variety of toppings to customize your burrito bowls and add flavor and texture.
Make the Carne Guisada ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use.
Use a flavorful oil, such as olive or avocado oil, to cook the onions and garlic.
Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to the dish just before serving to add brightness and flavor.
Use a variety of spices and seasonings to add depth and complexity to the dish.
Don't be afraid to experiment and try new ingredients and toppings to make the dish your own.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the beef, which can make it tough and dry.
Not using a high-quality beef broth, which can result in a bland and unflavorful dish.
Not cooking the onions and garlic long enough, which can result in a raw and unpleasant flavor.
Not using a variety of toppings, which can result in a boring and uninteresting dish.
Not making the Carne Guisada ahead of time, which can result in a rushed and stressful cooking experience.
Not using a flavorful oil, such as olive or avocado oil, which can result in a bland and unflavorful dish.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some diced bell peppers or zucchini to the pot with the onions and garlic for added flavor and nutrients.
Use a different type of chile, such as guajillo or chipotle, for a different flavor profile.
Add some diced fresh cilantro or scallions to the pot with the beef for added flavor and freshness.
Use a different type of protein, such as chicken or pork, for a different flavor and texture.
Add some diced tomatoes or tomatillos to the pot with the beef for added flavor and moisture.
Use a different type of broth, such as chicken or vegetable broth, for a different flavor profile.
Add some grated cheese, such as queso fresco or Monterey Jack, to the burrito bowls for added flavor and creaminess.

What to Serve With Carne Guisada Burrito Bowl

The Carne Guisada Burrito Bowls are perfect for serving with a variety of toppings, such as sour cream, shredded cheese, and diced avocado. You can also serve them with some crusty bread or tortilla chips on the side.

Some other ideas for serving the Carne Guisada Burrito Bowls include adding some diced fresh cilantro or scallions on top, or serving them with a side of Mexican street corn or roasted vegetables.

Serve the Carne Guisada Burrito Bowls with a side of Mexican street corn or roasted vegetables.Add some diced fresh cilantro or scallions on top of the burrito bowls for added flavor and freshness.Serve the Carne Guisada Burrito Bowls with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese.Use a different type of protein, such as chicken or pork, for a different flavor and texture.Add some diced bell peppers or zucchini to the pot with the onions and garlic for added flavor and nutrients.Serve the Carne Guisada Burrito Bowls with a side of crusty bread or tortilla chips.

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

The Carne Guisada can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use. To refrigerate, cool the Carne Guisada to room temperature, then cover it and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To freeze, cool the Carne Guisada to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the Carne Guisada overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in a pot on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

The cooked white rice can also be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use. To refrigerate, cool the rice to room temperature, then cover it and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To freeze, cool the rice to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the rice overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in a pot on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of beef is best for Carne Guisada?

Beef brisket or beef shank work well for Carne Guisada, as they are both tough cuts that become tender and flavorful after slow-cooking.

Can I use a different type of chile?

Yes, you can use a different type of chile, such as guajillo or chipotle, for a different flavor profile.

Can I make the Carne Guisada ahead of time?

Yes, the Carne Guisada can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use.

What type of toppings are best for Carne Guisada Burrito Bowls?

Some popular toppings for Carne Guisada Burrito Bowls include sour cream, shredded cheese, diced avocado, and diced fresh cilantro.

Can I use a different type of protein?

Yes, you can use a different type of protein, such as chicken or pork, for a different flavor and texture.

How do I reheat the Carne Guisada?

To reheat the Carne Guisada, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in a pot on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Can I freeze the cooked white rice?

Yes, the cooked white rice can be frozen for later use. To freeze, cool the rice to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months.

How do I assemble the burrito bowls?

To assemble the burrito bowls, place a scoop of cooked white rice in the bottom of a bowl, followed by a portion of the Carne Guisada, some diced fresh tomatoes, and a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro.

The Full Recipe

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