Beef Birria Tacos (Cheesy Birria Tacos)

Name: Beef Birria Tacos
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck roast; 2 cups beef broth; 3 dried guajillo chiles; 2 dried ancho chiles; 1 onion, quartered; 4 cloves garlic; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp oregano; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 corn tortillas; 1 cup shredded cheese (like Oaxaca or mozzarella); Chopped cilantro for garnish; Lime wedges for serving

Jack

Update : December 15, 2025

Delicious Beef Birria Tacos with melted cheese served in a tortilla

Why Make This Recipe

Beef Birria Tacos, also known as Cheesy Birria Tacos, are a delicious and hearty dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. This dish combines tender beef, savory spices, and gooey cheese wrapped in warm tortillas. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, these tacos will impress everyone who tries them.

How to Make Beef Birria Tacos

Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck roast
2 cups beef broth
3 dried guajillo chiles
2 dried ancho chiles
1 onion, quartered
4 cloves garlic
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp oregano
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
8 corn tortillas
1 cup shredded cheese (like Oaxaca or mozzarella)
Chopped cilantro for garnish
Lime wedges for serving

Directions

In a pot, soak the dried chiles in hot water until softened.
Blend softened chiles with onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, and a bit of beef broth until smooth.
In a slow cooker, combine the beef, blended sauce, remaining beef broth, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 8 hours until the beef is tender.
Remove beef, shred it, and strain the broth.
Heat a skillet over medium heat, dip tortillas in the broth, and place a scoop of beef and cheese in the center. Fold the tortilla and cook until crispy and cheese is melted.
Serve with consommé for dipping and garnish with cilantro and lime.

How to Serve Beef Birria Tacos

Serve Beef Birria Tacos hot, with a side of its rich consommé for dipping. Add fresh cilantro and lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor. This makes a great main dish that everyone will love.

How to Store Beef Birria Tacos

To store leftover Beef Birria Tacos, keep the toppings separate. Place the cooked beef and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the beef for up to 2 months. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Tips to Make Beef Birria Tacos

Make sure to soak the chiles until they are very soft; this helps create a smooth sauce.
For a richer flavor, you can brown the beef in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
Use fresh tortillas for the best taste and texture.

Variation

You can customize your Beef Birria Tacos by adding different toppings such as diced onions, radishes, or avocado. You could also try using different types of meat, such as lamb or chicken, for a unique twist on this classic dish.

FAQs

Can I make Beef Birria Tacos ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge and assemble your tacos when you’re ready to eat.

Are Beef Birria Tacos spicy?

The spice level depends on the type of chiles you choose. Guajillo and ancho chiles provide more flavor than heat, making them suitable for most palates.

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

You can use flour tortillas, but traditional Birria Tacos are made with corn tortillas for the best flavor and texture.