Name: My Fave Birria Tacos
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3 lbs chuck roast; 4 guajillo chiles; 2 ancho chiles; 2 chipotle peppers in adobo; 1 white onion; 5 garlic cloves; 2 bay leaves; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground clove; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 4 cups beef broth; 12 corn tortillas; 2 cups shredded Oaxaca cheese or mozzarella; 1/2 cup chopped white onion (for garnish); 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

When you’re craving something rich, cheesy, crispy, and absolutely soaked in bold flavor, Birria Tacos are your answer. These beloved Mexican street-style tacos are filled with slow-cooked, chili-spiced beef tucked into a crispy pan-fried tortilla, all served with a side of the ultimate flavor booster: the rich, deeply savory consommé.

Imagine a taco that crackles when you bite into it, bursting with melty cheese and dripping with juicy, spiced beef. The dipping sauce alone will make you question every taco you’ve ever eaten. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just want to level up taco night at home, Birria Tacos are a knockout dish that delivers comfort with every bite.

What Kind of Tortillas Should I Use for Birria Tacos?

Corn tortillas are the traditional pick here. They hold up beautifully to the frying process and soak up the rich consommé without falling apart. If you’re after that signature crispy bite, don’t skimp on this detail. For extra structure, a quick dip in the beef fat before frying is the secret to golden, flavorful edges.

Ingredients for the Birria Tacos

Chuck Roast: The star of the show. Its marbling gives the tacos that tender, juicy texture after hours of simmering.

Guajillo and Ancho Chiles: These dried peppers add depth, smokiness, and just the right amount of heat to the stew base.

Chipotle Peppers in Adobo: For that signature smoky heat and rich body in the consommé.

Aromatics (Garlic, Onion, Bay Leaf): Essential for layering flavor into the braising liquid.

Spices (Cumin, Clove, Oregano, Thyme, Cinnamon): These warm, bold spices make the stew rich and earthy.

Beef Broth: Forms the base of the braise and the dipping sauce. Go for low sodium to control the salt level.

Corn Tortillas: Crisp up beautifully and hold the filling without tearing.

Oaxaca Cheese or Mozzarella: A melting cheese is key to creating that cheesy pull we all love.

Fresh Cilantro and White Onion: Chopped and added at the end for brightness and crunch.

How To Make the Birria Tacos

Step 1: Toast and Soak the Chiles

Toast the guajillo and ancho chiles in a dry skillet until fragrant, then soak them in hot water for 15 minutes to soften.

Step 2: Blend the Sauce

Add soaked chiles, chipotles in adobo, garlic, onion, and spices into a blender. Add a bit of beef broth and blend until smooth.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

In a large Dutch oven or pot, sear chunks of chuck roast until browned on all sides. This adds flavor and texture.

Step 4: Braise the Beef

Pour the blended sauce over the beef, add bay leaves, remaining beef broth, and simmer for 3 hours until the meat is fall-apart tender.

Step 5: Shred and Reserve Broth

Remove beef, shred it, and return to the pot. Strain the consommé if preferred. Save some for dipping.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos

Dip corn tortillas into the top layer of the consommé, then fry in a hot skillet. Add cheese and beef, fold, and crisp on both sides.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh cilantro and chopped onion. Serve with a bowl of warm consommé on the side for dipping.

How to Serve and Store These Birria Tacos

Serve your birria tacos straight off the skillet while the cheese is gooey and the edges are crisp. They pair perfectly with a bowl of hot consommé for dipping. For leftovers, store the beef separately from the tortillas in the fridge. Reheat the meat in the consommé and re-crisp tortillas in a skillet before assembling. They freeze well too—just portion the beef in freezer bags and thaw as needed for a quick flavor-packed dinner.

What to Serve With Birria Tacos?

Mexican Street Corn (Elote)

Sweet corn slathered in crema, cheese, and chili powder is the perfect creamy-spicy side.

Avocado Salsa

Smooth, fresh, and just the right amount of heat to cool things down.

Cilantro Lime Rice

Fluffy rice with citrusy zest pairs beautifully with the rich beef.

Pickled Red Onions

Add tang and brightness to balance the richness of the tacos.

Refried Black Beans

Creamy, smoky, and a total comfort food classic.

Jalapeño Poppers

Crispy and spicy, they’re always a hit on the side.

Spicy Mango Salad

Sweet mangoes with chili-lime seasoning for a tropical kick.

Want More Taco Ideas?

If these Birria Tacos have you hooked, here are more creative and flavor-loaded recipes to keep your taco nights exciting:

Chicken Street Tacos with zesty lime and creamy avocado.
Cheesy Taco Cupcakes for a fun, bite-sized twist.
Taco Ranch Bites that are perfect for parties.
Walking Taco Casserole when you want tacos in comfort-food form.
Mexican Tortilla Casserole for a hearty layered bake that’s taco-inspired.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with mozzarella or keep it traditional with Oaxaca? Add a twist or keep it classic?

I love hearing how others bring their own touch to birria. Got questions? Let’s talk taco tips.

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