Easy Birria Tacos Recipe

Posted on September 7, 2025

Easy Birria Tacos Recipe

If you’re searching for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress family and friends, look no further than this easy birria tacos recipe. Bursting with rich flavors and tender meat, these tacos are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply want to enjoy a flavorful dinner at home, birria tacos offer a unique twist that will keep your taste buds dancing. The combination of slow-cooked beef, aromatic spices, and fresh toppings creates a culinary experience that’s both comforting and exciting.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of making easy birria tacos from scratch. From preparing the flavorful broth to assembling your tacos, we’ll share tips and tricks to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time. Plus, we’ll explore why this recipe has gained popularity and why you should definitely give it a try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this easy birria tacos recipe. Firstly, the flavors are just incredible. The slow-cooked beef chuck roast and short ribs create a rich and hearty filling, while the blend of guajillo, ancho, and pasilla chiles adds depth and a hint of spice. This combination results in a flavor profile that is both complex and comforting.

Secondly, the versatility of birria tacos makes them a fantastic choice for any meal. Serve them for a cozy family dinner, a festive gathering, or even at taco night with friends. These tacos are incredibly easy to customize; you can add your favorite toppings, such as cilantro, onions, and lime, or even experiment with different salsas for an extra kick.

Furthermore, the cooking process is straightforward and rewarding. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be able to create a dish that tastes like it came from a high-end restaurant. The slow cooking allows the meat to become tender and soak up all the delicious flavors from the spices and chiles. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about preparing a meal from scratch that your loved ones will rave about.

Lastly, birria tacos are perfect for meal prep! You can make a large batch of the beef and store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week. Simply reheat and assemble your tacos for a delightful and hassle-free meal any day. The rich flavors only get better as the beef sits, making it a great option for leftovers.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

This easy birria tacos recipe is not just about the taste; it’s about creating a memorable experience in the kitchen. Cooking birria tacos provides a chance to explore traditional Mexican flavors and techniques, allowing you to deepen your culinary skills. By preparing the dish yourself, you gain insight into the authenticity of the ingredients, making your tacos even more special.

Moreover, birria tacos have a rich cultural heritage. Originating from the state of Jalisco in Mexico, birria is traditionally made with goat meat, but beef has become a popular substitute. By making birria tacos at home, you’re participating in a beloved culinary tradition that has been passed down through generations.

Additionally, birria tacos are a fantastic way to impress your guests. When you serve these delicious tacos at your next gathering, your friends and family are sure to be amazed by the depth of flavor and the artistry involved in their preparation. It’s a dish that showcases your culinary talents while providing a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

Lastly, the joy of cooking is best when shared. Inviting family or friends to join you in the kitchen can turn this cooking experience into a fun and engaging activity. Everyone can pitch in, from shredding the beef to assembling the tacos, creating lasting memories over delicious food.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

Ingredients

  • 3 lbs beef chuck roast
  • 1 lb beef short ribs
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 3 dried guajillo chiles
  • 3 dried ancho chiles
  • 2 dried pasilla chiles
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Corn tortillas
  • Chopped onion, for serving
  • Chopped cilantro, for serving
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Necessary Utensils

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Blender
  • Skillet for heating tortillas
  • Two forks for shredding meat
  • Chopping board and knife
  • Measuring spoons
  • Serving plates and bowls

Having the right ingredients and utensils ready will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Make sure to gather everything before you start for an efficient cooking process!

Detailed Recipe Steps

  1. Prepare the Chiles: Start by removing the stems and seeds from the dried guajillo, ancho, and pasilla chiles. Toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant but be cautious not to burn them.
  2. Blend the Sauce: In a blender, combine the toasted chiles, chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, ground cinnamon, black pepper, and salt. Add about 1 cup of beef broth and blend until the mixture is smooth.
  3. Brown the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef chuck roast and short ribs with salt and pepper. Brown the meat on all sides for about 5-7 minutes to develop a rich flavor.
  4. Add the Sauce: Pour the blended sauce over the browned meat. Add the remaining beef broth and bay leaves. Stir everything to combine well.
  5. Cook the Birria: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and can be easily shredded. Alternatively, you can cook it in a slow cooker on low for about 8 hours for a hassle-free option.
  6. Shred the Meat: Once the meat is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Discard any bones from the short ribs and set the shredded meat aside.
  7. Serve the Tacos: Heat the corn tortillas on a skillet until warm and pliable. Place some shredded meat in the center of each tortilla. Top with chopped onion and cilantro to enhance the flavors.
  8. Enjoy: Serve the tacos with lime wedges and the reserved broth for dipping. Enjoy your delicious birria tacos!

**Tip:** If you want to add extra crunch, consider frying your tortillas in a bit of oil before adding the filling. This creates a delightful texture contrast!

FAQs

What is birria?

Birria is a traditional Mexican dish made from slow-cooked meat, typically goat or beef, and seasoned with a variety of spices. It’s often served in a rich broth and is famous for its deep, savory flavor.

Can I use chicken for birria tacos?

Yes, you can use chicken as a substitute for beef in birria tacos. Adjust the cooking times accordingly, as chicken will cook faster than beef.

How do I store leftover birria?

Store leftover birria in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

What toppings go well with birria tacos?

Popular toppings for birria tacos include chopped onions, fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime. You can also add salsa for an extra kick.

In conclusion, this easy birria tacos recipe is a delightful way to explore Mexican cuisine in your own kitchen. With its rich flavors, tender meat, and customizable toppings, it’s a dish that will surely please everyone at the table. Don’t hesitate to share your results and any twists you put on this recipe! We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. Happy cooking!

For more delicious recipes, check out this spicy honey garlic shrimp recipe that’s sure to impress!

Don’t forget to share this article with your friends and family, and try out this easy birria tacos recipe during your next cooking adventure!

Easy Birria Tacos Recipe

Easy Birria Tacos Recipe

These easy birria tacos are filled with tender, flavorful meat and served with lime and cilantro for a deliciously authentic taste.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Dutch Oven
  • Blender

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 3 lbs Beef chuck roast
  • 1 lb Beef short ribs
  • 4 cups Beef broth
  • 3 Dried guajillo chiles
  • 3 Dried ancho chiles
  • 2 Dried pasilla chiles
  • 1 medium Onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 2 tsp Ground cumin
  • 2 tsp Dried oregano
  • 1 tsp Ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp Black pepper
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 2 Bay leaves
  • 12 Corn tortillas
  • 1/2 cup Chopped onion, for serving
  • 1/2 cup Chopped cilantro, for serving
  • 1 whole Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions
 

Instructions

  • Prepare the Chiles: Remove the stems and seeds from the guajillo, ancho, and pasilla chiles. Toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
  • Blend the Sauce: In a blender, combine the toasted chiles, chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, ground cinnamon, black pepper, and salt. Add about 1 cup of beef broth and blend until smooth.
  • Brown the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef chuck roast and short ribs with salt and pepper. Brown the meat on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Add the Sauce: Pour the blended sauce over the browned meat. Add the remaining beef broth and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
  • Cook the Birria: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and shreds easily. Alternatively, you can cook it in a slow cooker on low for 8 hours.
  • Shred the Meat: Once cooked, remove the meat from the pot and shred it using two forks. Discard any bones from the short ribs.
  • Serve the Tacos: Heat the corn tortillas on a skillet. Place some shredded meat in the center of each tortilla. Top with chopped onion and cilantro.
  • Enjoy: Serve the tacos with lime wedges and the reserved broth for dipping. Enjoy your delicious birria tacos!

Notes

For added flavor, you can marinate the meat overnight with the blended sauce before cooking.
Keyword beef, Birria, tacos

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