Taco nights are about to get an epic upgrade! These crispy beef birria tacos (quesabirria) are not just a meal; they are a flavorful journey that will awaken your senses and tantalize your taste buds. Slow-cooked to perfection, the juicy beef mingles with melty Oaxacan cheese and is embraced by golden, crisp tortillas that add a satisfying crunch. One of the best perks? You can indulge in this high-protein comfort food without any of the guilt; they even offer a gluten-free option with cassava flour tortillas! The perfect blend of savory and crunchy, these tacos become an experience when dipped in a rich, flavorful consommé. Are you ready to transform your taco game this week?

Why Are Birria Tacos a Must-Try?

Pure Flavor Explosion: These crispy beef birria tacos deliver a delightful combination of rich, savory beef and gooey cheese, creating an irresistible flavor masterpiece.
Slow-Cooked Goodness: The slow-cooking process allows the spices to meld beautifully, enhancing every bite with warmth and depth.
Versatile Options: With a gluten-free alternative using cassava flour tortillas, everyone can enjoy this comfort food without the worry of dietary restrictions.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these tacos will impress and satisfy, leaving no leftovers behind. For more delicious taco ideas, don’t forget to check out my Shrimp Poblano Tacos for another tasty twist!
Quick to Assemble: Once cooked, preparing the tacos is a breeze; you’ll be enjoying them in no time. Get ready to take your taco nights to a whole new level!

Beef Birria Tacos Ingredients

For the Birria Filling

Beef Chuck Roast – Tender and flavorful, it’s the star of your beef birria tacos. Alternative meats like pork or chicken work wonderfully too!
Guajillo Chiles – They bring mild heat and a deep flavor; if you can’t find them, use chili powder and paprika as substitutes.
Ancho Chilies – Adds a touch of sweetness and mild spiciness; you can swap it with pasilla chiles if needed.
Arbol Chilies – Offers a kick of heat, so adjust to your spice preference by reducing or removing them.
Roma Tomatoes – Contributes acidity and sweetness; canned tomatoes can be a quick alternative in a pinch.
White Onion – For aromatic depth in the sauce; feel free to use yellow onion if that’s what you have.
Garlic Cloves – Fresh garlic enhances the overall flavor, making it a must-have!
Low-Sodium Beef Broth – This creates a rich sauce base; vegetable broth can be an excellent lighter alternative.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Balances the flavors perfectly; lemon juice is a good substitute if you’re out of vinegar.
Kosher Salt & Ground Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; always taste and adjust based on your preferences.
Ground Cumin, Mexican Oregano, Ground Cloves, Ground Cinnamon, Ground Ginger – This spice blend adds warmth and is customizable based on your taste.
Bay Leaves – Infuse your filling with flavor; remember to remove them before serving.

For the Tacos

Corn Tortillas (or Cassava Flour Tortillas) – The base for your tacos; cassava flour is excellent for a gluten-free option.
Oaxacan Cheese – Melts beautifully for that perfect cheesy bite; if unavailable, try a Mexican cheese blend instead.

For Toppings

Diced White Onion – Offers a refreshing crunch and elevates the flavors of your beef birria tacos.
Cilantro – Adds brightness and freshness; adjust the amount based on personal preference.

These beef birria tacos are not just a meal; they’re a flavorful experience waiting to happen. Grab your ingredients and get ready to create a dish that brings everyone to the table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Beef Birria Tacos with Flavorful Consommé

Step 1: Prepare Chilies
Begin by de-seeding the guajillo, ancho, and arbol chiles. Place them in a pot, cover with water, and simmer for 15 minutes until they soften and become plump. This step infuses your beef birria tacos with an essential depth of flavor. Once done, drain them and set aside for blending.

Step 2: Broil Vegetables
Preheat your broiler and line a baking sheet with foil. On the sheet, place the Roma tomatoes, halved white onion, and peeled garlic cloves. Broil these ingredients for 4-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are charred and fragrant. This caramelization enhances the sauce’s richness, ensuring your birria tacos will have an irresistible taste.

Step 3: Blend Sauce
Transfer the softened chiles, broiled vegetables, and about 1 cup of their liquid into a blender. Add low-sodium beef broth, apple cider vinegar, and the spices—cumin, oregano, cloves, cinnamon, and ginger—into the mix. Blend everything until smooth and vibrant. This sauce will be the heart of your beef birria tacos, providing unmatched flavor.

Step 4: Cook Beef
In a slow cooker, combine chunks of beef chuck roast with the blended sauce. Cover and cook on low for 8-9 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender and shreds easily. The slow cooking allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, ensuring your tacos are bursting with deliciousness.

Step 5: Shred Beef
Once the beef is tender, remove it from the slow cooker and discard the bay leaves. Using two forks, shred the beef into bite-sized pieces, capturing all the flavorful juices. Return the shredded beef to the sauce, allowing it to soak up the delicious flavors for your beef birria tacos.

Step 6: Prepare Tacos
Heat a skilled over medium heat and add a splash of broth from the slow cooker. Dip a corn tortilla into the broth and then place it on the skillet. On one half, add a generous amount of shredded beef and a sprinkle of Oaxacan cheese. Fold the tortilla over and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Serve
Arrange your crispy beef birria tacos on a platter and serve them hot alongside a small bowl of the rich consommé for dipping. Garnish with fresh diced onion and cilantro for a pop of flavor. Dive into this delightful experience and enjoy every bite of your homemade goodness!

How to Store and Freeze Beef Birria Tacos

Fridge: Store leftover beef birria tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. This keeps them fresh and flavorful for quick meals during the week.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the shredded birria filling in a sealed freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. This lets you enjoy the meal at a later date without loss of taste.

Reheating (Fridge): Reheat tacos in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through. You can add a splash of broth to refresh the moisture.

Reheating (Freezer): Thaw the birria overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, then enjoy your delectable beef birria tacos!

Make Ahead Options

These beef birria tacos are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor the deliciousness without a fuss! You can cook the beef and prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain flavor and moisture. For the best results, wait to fry the tortillas until just before serving, as they’ll stay crispier that way. When you’re ready to enjoy your tacos, simply heat the filling in a saucepan, dip the tortillas in the broth, and fry them for that fresh, crispy texture. This method not only saves time but ensures you enjoy restaurant-quality birria tacos with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Crispy Beef Birria Tacos with Flavorful Consommé

Pair your beef birria tacos with delightful sides and drinks to create an unforgettable meal experience.

Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice adds a fresh, zesty flavor that balances the richness of the tacos perfectly. The bright lime notes and earthy cilantro contrast beautifully with the savory beef.
Fresh Guacamole: Creamy and luscious, guacamole brings a cool and delicious element to your meal. It pairs wonderfully with the crunchy tacos, enriching every bite with creamy avocado goodness.
Spicy Pickled Jalapeños: These tangy bites add a spicy kick that complements the flavor of the birria. They also provide a crunchy texture, creating a delightful contrast to the softness of the beef.
Mango Salsa: Sweet and vibrant, mango salsa brings a hint of sweetness that offsets the spice in the tacos. The fresh ingredients elevate the dish, making every bite an explosion of flavors.
Refried Beans: Creamy and hearty, refried beans serve as a filling side, enhancing your meal’s comforting nature. Their smooth texture pairs well with the crispy tacos, providing another layer of flavor.
Mexican Street Corn Salad: Also known as Esquites, this salad features corn with lime, cheese, and spices. Its refreshing, crunchy texture complements the savory tacos, creating a well-rounded dining experience.
Horchata: This sweet, creamy rice drink is incredibly refreshing and wonderfully complements the flavors of the birria tacos. It’s the perfect way to cleanse your palate between bites.
Churros with Chocolate Sauce: Finish your meal with these sweet treats! The crispy exterior and soft inside, combined with chocolate sauce for dipping, create a satisfying dessert that rounds out your taco night beautifully.

Tips for the Best Birria Tacos

Chili Selection: Ensure you select quality guajillo, ancho, and arbol chiles for depth. If they’re stale or old, your birria tacos may lack flavor.
Time is Key: Don’t rush the slow cooking; allowing the beef to cook for the full 8-9 hours makes a significant difference in tenderness.
Monitor Tortilla Crispiness: Be careful not to over-fry the tortillas; they should be golden brown but not burnt for the ideal crunchy texture.
Heat Level Control: Adjust the number of spicy chiles based on your family’s preference. If you prefer milder birria tacos, reduce the arbol chiles.
Storage Wisdom: Store any leftover birria in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days, ensuring it’s perfect for quick meals later on.

Beef Birria Tacos Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to put your own spin on these delicious tacos and make them uniquely yours!

Gluten-Free: Swap in cassava flour tortillas for a completely gluten-free option that doesn’t skimp on taste. They add a wonderful texture without the gluten.
Different Protein: Try using shredded chicken or pork in place of beef. Each option offers a delightful twist while retaining the rich flavor profile.
Vegetarian Delight: For a meatless version, use shredded jackfruit or sautéed mushrooms and black beans for a hearty filling that still satisfies.
Add Heat: Want more spice? Toss in some diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers with adobo sauce for a smoky kick that’ll fire up your taste buds.
Creamy Avocado: Enhance the creaminess by adding sliced or mashed avocado as a topping. It provides a nice contrast to the crispy tortillas and spicy beef.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into your spice blend for an extra layer of depth and warmth; it truly complements the hearty flavors of the birria.
Fresh Twist: Add more crunch and freshness with sliced radishes or cabbage slaw as a topping. This vibrant addition will brighten up your tacos beautifully.
Milder Option: If you’re not a fan of heat, simply reduce the arbol and guajillo chiles in your sauce, or include more tomatoes for extra sweetness.

Exploring different variations can make each taco night special! For more taco inspiration, check out my Shrimp Poblano Tacos for a delightful twist on taco perfection.

Beef Birria Tacos Recipe FAQs

What is the best meat for birria tacos?
For the most flavorful birria tacos, I recommend using beef chuck roast. It’s tender and full of flavor when slow-cooked. However, you can also try pork or chicken for a different variation if you desire.

How should I store leftover birria tacos?
Absolutely! Store leftover beef birria tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Additionally, place any extra birria filling in a sealed container, and it can be stored in the fridge as well. This ensures you can enjoy delicious meals throughout the week!

Can I freeze the birria filling?
Yes, you can! For longer storage, freeze the shredded beef birria filling in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container for up to 3 months. Make sure to let the mixture cool completely before freezing to preserve its quality. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop!

What should I do if my birria turns out too spicy?
If you find your birria tacos are too spicy, don’t worry! You can balance out the heat by adding more broth to the mixture and adjusting your seasonings accordingly. Adding a touch of sugar or tangy components, like apple cider vinegar, can also help mellow the spiciness. It’s all about finding that delightful balance!

Can my dog eat birria tacos?
While it may be tempting to share, avoid giving your dog birria tacos. The chili and spices can be harmful to dogs, causing upset stomachs. Instead, consider making a simple, meat-only version for your furry friend as a treat!

What type of tortillas can I use for birria tacos?
Corn tortillas are traditional and delicious, but if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, cassava flour tortillas work wonderfully! These tortillas keep the essence of the tacos while catering to dietary preferences. Enjoy the crispy goodness!