Top 35 Puerto Rican Recipes to Enjoy

Puerto Rican dishes bring a burst of Caribbean flavors, rich with spices and traditional ingredients that tell a story of culture and heritage.

Recipes feature staples like plantains, sofrito, and fresh seafood, creating meals that are both flavorful and vibrant.

From hearty stews to sweet treats, these recipes celebrate the unique cuisine of Puerto Rico.

Carne Guisada

Carne guisada offers a warm embrace of flavors that can transport you straight to the heart of home cooking.

This hearty dish features tender beef simmered in a rich, savory sauce, often accompanied by onions, peppers, and spices that dance together in perfect harmony.

As it cooks slowly on the stove or in a cozy oven, aromas fill your kitchen and invite everyone to gather around the table.

Enjoying carne guisada with rice or tortillas creates an experience where comfort meets satisfaction.

Bistec Encebollado (Steak & Onions)

Bistec encebollado brings a warm, hearty feeling to any meal.

This dish features tender steak bathed in a savory onion sauce that fills the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.

Each bite offers a combination of juicy meat and sweet, caramelized onions that dance on your palate.

Served alongside rice or fried plantains, it creates a satisfying experience that feels like home cooking at its best.

Arroz con Pollo

Arroz con pollo is a comforting dish that fills the table with warmth and flavor.

Tender chicken, simmered with aromatic spices, absorbs the rich notes of saffron and garlic.

Fluffy rice and vibrant vegetables come together, creating a colorful, inviting plate.

The enticing aroma promises satisfaction.

Asopao de Pollo (Puerto Rican Chicken Stew)

Asopao de pollo is a well-loved Puerto Rican stew.

It combines tender chicken in a deeply flavorful broth that’s hard to resist.

The hearty mix of rice, spices, and vegetables provides a cozy, satisfying dish for colder days.

Hints of cilantro and lime add brightness.

Puerto Rican Pinchos De Pollo (Chicken Kabobs)

Puerto Rican pinchos de pollo are a mouthwatering delight that brings the flavors of the Caribbean right to your plate.

Juicy chicken pieces marinated in a mix of garlic, oregano, and vinegar create an irresistible taste that dances on your palate.

Skewered with colorful peppers and onions, these kabobs not only look appetizing but also offer a burst of freshness in every bite.

Grilled to perfection over an open flame adds a smoky touch that elevates this dish .

Puerto Rican Beef Sancocho

Puerto Rican beef sancocho is a hearty stew that warms both the body and soul.

This dish features tender chunks of beef simmered to perfection, surrounded by an array of colorful vegetables like yuca, plantains, and corn.

The rich broth is infused with spices that create a comforting aroma as it cooks slowly on the stove.

A bowl of sancocho not only satisfies hunger but also brings a taste of Puerto Rico’s vibrant culture right into your home.

Tostones

Tostones bring a crunch that instantly captures attention.

These twice-fried green plantains are a staple in many Latin American and Caribbean cuisines, offering an irresistible contrast of textures.

The golden exterior gives way to a tender inside, creating an experience that's both satisfying and flavorful.

Often enjoyed with garlic sauce or fresh salsa, they can easily become the highlight of any gathering or meal.

Pernil (Puerto Rican Roast Pork)

Pernil, a beloved dish from Puerto Rico, showcases the rich flavors of marinated pork slow-roasted to perfection.

This culinary treasure features succulent meat infused with garlic, oregano, and citrus juices that create an unforgettable taste experience.

As it cooks slowly in the oven, aromas waft through your kitchen and invite everyone to gather around.

The crispy skin adds a crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat beneath.

Arroz con Gandules

Arroz con gandules brings a warm, inviting aroma that fills the kitchen with memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations.

This dish combines fluffy rice with tender pigeon peas, creating a harmony of textures and flavors.

Seasoned with sofrito, it carries hints of garlic, onion, and peppers that dance on your palate.

This delight can transport you to the heart of Puerto Rican culture where every meal is an occasion to connect over good food.

Puerto Rican Picadillo

Puerto Rican picadillo is a hearty dish that warms the soul with its rich flavors.

Ground beef mingles with olives, capers, and spices to create a savory mix that dances on your taste buds.

The sweetness of raisins adds an unexpected twist, balancing the savory notes beautifully.

Served over rice or in tacos, this meal brings comfort and satisfaction to any table.

Sharing it with loved ones turns every gathering into a cherished memory filled with laughter and good food.

Asopao de Camarones

Asopao de camarones brings a warm, comforting vibe to any meal.

This shrimp stew bursts with flavor, blending tender shrimp with rich broth and spices that dance on your palate.

The rice absorbs all the deliciousness, creating a hearty dish that's perfect for sharing or enjoying solo.

Fresh herbs and zesty lime add brightness to each spoonful, inviting you back for more every time.

It’s not just food; it’s an experience that warms the heart and fills the belly in nice ways.

Habichuelas Guisadas (Puerto Rican Stewed Beans)

Habichuelas guisadas brings a taste of Puerto Rico right to your kitchen.

This dish features tender beans simmered in a rich, savory sauce made with garlic, onions, and bell peppers.

Each spoonful carries the warmth of spices like cumin and oregano that dance on your palate.

Pair it with rice or fried plantains for a comforting experience that feels like home no matter where you are.

Puerto Rican Sofrito

Puerto Rican sofrito brings a burst of flavor that can elevate any dish.

This aromatic blend typically includes ingredients like cilantro, garlic, onions, and peppers, creating a fragrant base for countless recipes.

The vibrant colors and fresh scents invite you into the kitchen as you prepare meals filled with warmth and tradition.

Each family may have its own twist on this beloved mixture, making it a cherished part of culinary heritage across the island.

Adding sofrito to your cooking not only enhances taste but also connects you to rich cultural roots that celebrate community through food.

Mofongo

Mofongo brings a taste of the Caribbean right to your plate.

This dish, made from green plantains that are fried and mashed, carries a texture that’s both hearty and comforting.

Seasoned with garlic, olive oil, and chicharrón (crispy pork skin), it delivers bold flavors in every mouthful.

Often served with a savory broth or topped with shrimp or chicken, mofongo becomes an experience rather than just a meal.

Chuletas Fritas (Puerto Rican Pan-Fried Pork Chops)

Chuletas fritas bring a taste of Puerto Rico right to your plate.

These pan-fried pork chops are seasoned with garlic, oregano, and a hint of lime, creating an irresistible flavor that dances on your taste buds.

The crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the tender meat inside, making every mouthful satisfying.

Served alongside rice and beans or fresh avocado slices, this dish becomes a comforting meal that feels like home cooking at its best.

Enjoying chuletas fritas is more than just eating; it’s about savoring the rich culinary traditions of Puerto Rico in every bite you take.

Puerto Rican Flan

Puerto Rican flan captures the essence of comfort with its creamy texture and rich caramel flavor.

This dessert, a staple in many households, often brings back warm memories of family gatherings and celebrations.

The blend of eggs, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla creates a luscious treat that melts in your mouth.

A golden caramel sauce drapes over the top like a warm hug, inviting you to take another bite.

Chuletas Guisadas (Puerto Rican Stewed Pork Chops)

Chuletas guisadas brings a taste of Puerto Rico right to your table.

Tender pork chops simmer in a rich, savory sauce that’s infused with garlic, onions, and bell peppers.

The aroma fills the kitchen as the spices meld together beautifully, inviting everyone to gather around for a hearty meal.

Served alongside rice and beans or fried plantains, this dish creates an experience that warms both body and soul.

Enjoying chuletas guisadas is like sharing a piece of home-cooked love with those you cherish most; it’s comfort food at its finest!

Puerto Rican Chillo Frito

Puerto Rican chillo frito is a dish that brings the essence of the Caribbean right to your plate.

This whole fried snapper, seasoned with garlic and citrus, creates a beautiful crunch that you can’t resist.

Picture yourself enjoying this delicacy at a sun-soaked beachside table, where the ocean breeze dances around you.

Served alongside rice and beans or crispy plantains, it makes every meal feel like an escape to paradise.

Bacalaitos

Bacalaitos are a delightful Puerto Rican treat that combines crispy texture with savory flavors.

These cod fritters bring a unique twist to any meal, offering a satisfying crunch on the outside while remaining tender inside.

The use of salted cod adds depth, creating an unforgettable taste experience that lingers on your palate.

Often enjoyed as street food or at festive gatherings, they provide an easy way to share delicious moments with loved ones.

Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor and let the good times roll!

Jibarito (Plantain and Steak Sandwich)

A jibarito brings a twist to the classic sandwich experience.

Instead of bread, crispy fried plantains cradle juicy steak, creating a satisfying crunch with every bite.

This Puerto Rican favorite often includes fresh toppings like lettuce, tomato, and garlic mayo that add layers of flavor and freshness.

The combination of savory meat and sweet plantains creates an unforgettable taste that dances on your palate.

Rellenos de Papa (Picadillo-Stuffed Potato Fritters)

Rellenos de papa are a treat that brings comfort and warmth to any meal.

These golden, crispy potato fritters hide a savory surprise inside, tender picadillo, filled with seasoned ground meat and vegetables.

The combination of soft potatoes on the outside and flavorful filling creates an irresistible contrast that you won't forget.

Enjoying them hot from the fryer is an experience in itself; each bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by rich flavors dancing on your palate.

Puerto Rican Oxtail Stew

Puerto Rican oxtail stew is a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly.

Tender pieces of oxtail simmer in a rich broth, infused with spices like garlic, cumin, and oregano.

Each spoonful brings together flavors from fresh vegetables such as carrots and potatoes, creating a comforting experience that feels like home cooking.

The slow-cooked meat practically falls off the bone, inviting you to savor every mouthful alongside fluffy rice or crusty bread.

Puerto Rican Empanadas

Puerto Rican empanadas are filled with savory ingredients like seasoned meats, cheese, or vegetables.

These hand-held pastries offer a satisfying crunch on the outside and a burst of flavor within.

The dough is often made from simple ingredients like flour and water, yet it transforms into something extraordinary when fried to golden perfection.

Pastelon (Puerto Rican Plantain Lasagna)

Pastelon is a tasty dish that brings the flavors of Puerto Rico right to your table.

Layers of sweet plantains, savory ground meat, and rich cheese come together in a warm embrace that feels like home.

Each mouthful delivers a comforting mix of textures and tastes, where the sweetness of ripe plantains balances beautifully with seasoned beef or chicken.

This dish invites you to gather around with loved ones, sharing stories as you savor every delicious layer.

Coquito

Coquito brings a taste of Puerto Rico to your gatherings, blending creamy coconut with rich spices.

This festive drink, often enjoyed during the holiday season, warms the heart and ignites memories of family celebrations.

You might find yourself savoring its velvety texture as it dances on your palate, leaving a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg behind.

Made with simple ingredients like coconut milk and rum, this concoction invites everyone to share in its joy.

Yuca Frita (Yuca Fries)

Yuca frita, those crispy golden delights, bring a taste of the tropics right to your plate.

These fries are made from yuca root, a starchy vegetable that offers a unique flavor and texture unlike traditional potatoes.

When cooked to perfection, they have an irresistible crunch on the outside while remaining soft and fluffy inside.

Dipping them in garlic sauce or spicy mayo elevates the experience ; each bite becomes an adventure for your taste buds.

Pavochon

Pavochon combines the best of two worlds: a succulent turkey and a savory pork roast.

This dish offers an enticing blend of flavors that dances on your palate, inviting you to savor every mouthful.

The crispy skin envelops tender meat, creating an irresistible contrast that keeps you coming back for more.

With spices and herbs woven throughout, each bite delivers warmth and comfort reminiscent of family gatherings during the holidays.

Mofongo con Carne Frita

Mofongo con carne frita brings a taste of Puerto Rico right to your plate.

This dish features mashed green plantains, skillfully blended with garlic and pork cracklings, creating a comforting base that’s both hearty and satisfying.

Topped generously with crispy fried meat, it offers an irresistible crunch that complements the softness below.

Camarones a la Criolla

Camarones a la criolla brings the warmth of coastal flavors right to your table.

Juicy shrimp swim in a rich, zesty sauce made from tomatoes, onions, and peppers that dance together in harmony.

This dish captures the essence of Latin cuisine with its vibrant colors and bold tastes that invite you to savor every moment.

Enjoying it alongside rice or crusty bread makes for a satisfying meal that feels like a hug on your plate.

Pina Colada

A piña colada brings a tropical escape to your glass, combining the sweet flavors of pineapple and coconut.

This drink has a creamy texture that dances on your palate, inviting you to unwind and relax.

With every sip, hints of rum add warmth and depth, transporting you straight to sandy beaches under swaying palm trees.

Churrasco (Skirt Steak)

Churrasco, a beloved dish from Latin America, brings together the rich flavors of marinated skirt steak grilled to perfection.

The marinade often includes garlic, lime juice, and fresh herbs that infuse the meat with a zesty kick.

When cooked over an open flame or hot coals, it develops a mouthwatering char that complements its juicy tenderness beautifully.

Served alongside chimichurri sauce, vibrant blend of parsley, garlic, vinegar and oilthis dish, creates an explosion of taste in every bite.

Croquetas de Jamon

Croquetas de jamón offer an amazing experience for your taste buds.

These little bites of heaven feature a creamy filling made from rich béchamel sauce, infused with the savory goodness of Spanish ham.

Crispy on the outside, they provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with their soft interior.

Enjoy them as an appetizer or snack; they pair wonderfully with a glass of wine or even just some fresh bread.

Puerto Rican Shrimp Ceviche

Puerto Rican shrimp ceviche offers a refreshing taste of the Caribbean that dances on your palate.

Fresh shrimp, marinated in zesty lime juice, soak up vibrant flavors from cilantro, onion, and diced tomatoes.

This dish showcases the island's rich culinary heritage while providing a crunch from added cucumbers and peppers.

Enjoying it chilled makes for an invigorating appetizer or light meal that brightens any occasion.

Puerto Rican Pollo Fricassee (Chicken Fricassee)

Puerto Rican pollo fricassee includes tender chicken simmered in a rich, flavorful sauce made with tomatoes, bell peppers, and a hint of garlic.

The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly anticipating dinner time.

A splash of olives adds a delightful brininess that balances the sweetness of the vegetables perfectly.

Serve it over fluffy rice for an unforgettable meal that feels like home on every plate.

Pollo Guisado

Pollo guisado offers a warm embrace of flavors that feels like home.

This traditional dish, often simmered to perfection, combines tender chicken with a medley of spices and vegetables.

Each ingredient plays its part in creating a comforting harmony that many cherish.

The rich aroma wafting through the kitchen invites everyone to gather around the table and share stories over hearty servings.