The Tastiest Beef Birria Tacos!

Name: The Tastiest Beef Birria Tacos!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks; 1 onion, quartered; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2-3 dried guajillo chiles, stemmed and seeded; 1 dried ancho chile, stemmed and seeded; 2 tsp cumin; 2 tsp oregano; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp salt; 4 cups beef broth; 2 bay leaves; Corn tortillas; Chopped cilantro; Chopped onions; Lime wedges

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Savor the rich, authentic flavors of Mexico with these mouthwatering Beef Birria Tacos. Slow-cooked until tender and bursting with spices, these tacos are served with a savory consommé for dipping, making them perfect for entertaining or a cozy family meal. Elevate your taco night with this delicious recipe that will leave everyone craving more!

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2025-11-26T15:09:33.276Z

Authentic Mexican Cuisine

Beef Birria Tacos are a beloved staple of Mexican cuisine, offering a celebration of flavors that are both rich and comforting. Originating from the state of Jalisco, birria was initially prepared using goat meat, but over time, variations have emerged that utilize beef, making it more accessible to many. This dish showcases the essence of traditional Mexican cooking, incorporating robust spices and fresh ingredients, resulting in a meal that is both satisfying and full of character.

What sets Birria apart from other taco fillings is the cooking method. The beef is slow-cooked to perfection, allowing the meat to become tender and infused with the deep flavors of the spices and broth. The process is a labor of love, but the reward is a dish that not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul. Every bite of these tacos transports you to the vibrant streets of Mexico, where culinary heritage is cherished.

The Perfect Pair for Taco Night

Birria tacos make an excellent main attraction for your next taco night, bringing an element of excitement and indulgence to the table. These delectable tacos are versatile; you can pair them with an array of sides and toppings to suit the preferences of your guests. Serve them with a choice of salsas, guacamole, or a zesty slaw to add texture and flavor contrasts. The richness of the beef combined with tangy accompaniments creates an unforgettable tasting experience.

Moreover, Birria is not just for taco night. This dish can elevate any gathering or special occasion, making it a crowd-pleaser that friends and family will love. The accompanying consommé serves as a delightful dipping sauce that enhances the flavors and offers a unique twist to the meal. Dive into the aromatic world of Birria tacos and watch your guests savor every bite.

Cooking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Beef Birria Tacos, be sure to choose high-quality beef chuck roast. The marbling in the meat is essential for creating a flavorful, tender result as it breaks down during the slow cooking process. Don’t rush the cooking; allowing the beef to simmer for several hours will yield the best texture and flavor. You can also prepare the dish a day ahead, as Birria often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld.

Another useful tip is to customize the spice level to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the number of chiles or remove the seeds from them before blending. On the other hand, for those who like a kick, experimenting with additional spices or heat-enhancing chiles can add excitement. The key to crafting the ideal Beef Birria Tacos lies in patience and attention to detail.

Ingredients

For the Beef Birria

2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
1 onion, quartered
4 cloves garlic, minced
2-3 dried guajillo chiles, stemmed and seeded
1 dried ancho chile, stemmed and seeded
2 tsp cumin
2 tsp oregano
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt
4 cups beef broth
2 bay leaves

For Serving

Corn tortillas
Chopped cilantro
Chopped onions
Lime wedges

Prepare your ingredients before you start cooking for the best experience!

Instructions

Prepare the Chiles

Soak the guajillo and ancho chiles in hot water for about 15 minutes until soft. Drain and blend with a bit of beef broth until smooth.

Cook the Beef

In a large pot, add the beef chunks, onion, garlic, blended chiles, cumin, oregano, black pepper, salt, beef broth, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 3 hours until the beef is tender.

Shred the Meat

Remove the beef from the pot and shred it with a fork. Return the shredded beef to the pot to absorb the flavors.

Prepare the Tacos

Warm the corn tortillas on a skillet and fill them with the tender beef mixture. Serve with chopped cilantro, onions, and lime wedges.

Enjoy your delicious Beef Birria Tacos with the leftover consommé for dipping!

Serving Suggestions

When serving Beef Birria Tacos, consider creating a taco bar that allows guests to assemble their own tacos, offering a variety of toppings such as avocados, pickled onions, or jalapeños. This interactive dining experience encourages creativity and can make the meal even more fun. Additionally, providing a selection of beverages, like refreshing aguas frescas or cold beers, will heighten the festive atmosphere.

Don't forget about the side dishes! Traditional options like Mexican rice, refried beans, or elote (Mexican street corn) complement the richness of the Birria beautifully. Offering a fresh salad or coleslaw can also bring a light balance to the meal, creating a well-rounded dining experience.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, you’ll be pleased to know that Beef Birria can be stored for later enjoyment. Allow the birria to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making for a delicious meal when reheated. You can also freeze the leftover beef and consommé for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

When reheating, gently warm the beef in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to maintain moisture. The consommé can be warmed on the stovetop or in the microwave. To enjoy your tacos again, simply warm up fresh corn tortillas and load them with the beef and desired toppings. This makes for an easy and delicious meal that reminds you of why Beef Birria Tacos are so irresistible!

Variations to Explore

While the classic Beef Birria Tacos are undoubtedly delightful, experimenting with variations can provide new taste experiences. One popular twist is to use different meats, such as pork or chicken, for those looking for alternatives. Each meat will bring its unique flavor profile to the dish, while still retaining the essence of traditional birria.

Vegetarians can also indulge in Birria by using hearty vegetables or plant-based proteins. Prepare a vegetable broth infused with spices and use mushrooms, jackfruit, or lentils in place of beef to capture the richness of the original dish. These adaptations ensure that everyone can enjoy the delights of Birria Tacos, regardless of dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use brisket or short ribs for different flavors and textures.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the leftover beef and consommé in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.