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 or brisket; 4 dried guajillo chiles; 3 dried ancho chiles; 1 onion, chopped; 4 garlic cloves; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Corn tortillas; 1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., Oaxaca or Monterey Jack); Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Lime wedges, for serving

Jena Ellison

Update : January 7, 2026

Cheesy Beef Birria Tacos served with flavorful consomme

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Why Make This Recipe

Beef Birria Tacos, also known as Cheesy Birria Tacos, are a delicious twist on a traditional Mexican dish. These mouthwatering tacos are filled with tender, flavorful beef and melted cheese, making them a popular choice for gatherings and special occasions. The savory broth, or consommé, adds an extra layer of taste that elevates this dish to the next level. Whether you are a taco lover or just looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to impress.

How to Make Beef Birria Tacos

Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck or brisket
4 dried guajillo chiles
3 dried ancho chiles
1 onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves
2 cups beef broth
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Corn tortillas
1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., Oaxaca or Monterey Jack)
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving

Directions

Prepare the chiles by removing the stems and seeds. In a saucepan, combine the chiles with enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil and let simmer for about 10 minutes until they soften.
In a blender, combine the softened chiles, onion, garlic, beef broth, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Blend the mixture until smooth.
Place the beef in a slow cooker or pot and pour the blended sauce over the meat. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the meat is tender and shreds easily.
Once cooked, shred the beef and put it back into the broth to soak up the flavors.
To make the tacos, heat a skillet over medium heat. Dip the tortillas in the broth, then place them in the skillet. Add shredded beef and cheese to one half of the tortilla, fold it, and cook until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese has melted.
Serve with the consommé for dipping and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

How to Serve Beef Birria Tacos

Serve these tacos hot, with small bowls of the rich broth for dipping. The combination of flavors from the beef, spices, and cheese creates a delightful meal. Fresh cilantro and lime wedges add a bright touch to each bite, enhancing the overall experience.

How to Store Beef Birria Tacos

To store leftovers, let the beef and broth cool completely. Place the beef in an airtight container and pour some broth over it to keep it moist. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the beef and broth in sealed containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

Tips to Make Beef Birria Tacos

If you want more heat, you can add some chili powder or use spicier chiles.
For a richer flavor, let the beef marinate in the sauce for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
Use fresh tortillas for the best texture. If you can’t find them, heat up store-bought tortillas before serving.

Variation

Feel free to add toppings like diced onions, radishes, or avocado for added flavor and texture. You can also experiment by using different types of meat, such as pork or chicken, to create your own version of birria tacos.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh chiles instead of dried chiles?
Yes! If you can find fresh varieties, you can use them. Adjust the quantity based on your spice preference.

2. What kind of tortillas should I use?
Corn tortillas are traditional for birria tacos, but you can also use flour tortillas if you prefer.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, the beef can be cooked the day before and stored in the fridge. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.