Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with my all-time Fave Birria Tacos recipe! Picture tender, shredded beef, oozing with cheese, and crisped to perfection—these are hands down the best homemade tacos you’ll ever sink your teeth into. We’re talking braising a rich birria de rez, crafting a flavorsome consomé, and frying up tacos with luscious Oaxacan cheese. Get ready for taco perfection! Make-ahead, gluten-free, dairy-free + vegan option.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Birria
- For Serving
- How to Make My Fave Birria Tacos
- Step 1: Prepare the Chiles
- Step 2: Blend the Sauce
- Step 3: Cook the Beef
- Step 4: Braise
- Step 5: Assemble Tacos
- Step 6: Serve
- How to Serve My Fave Birria Tacos
- With Fresh Toppings
- In a Flavorful Consomé
- Accompanied by Sides
- How to Perfect My Fave Birria Tacos
- Best Side Dishes for My Fave Birria Tacos
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing My Fave Birria Tacos
- Reheating My Fave Birria Tacos
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken instead of beef in My Fave Birria Tacos?
- What are the best toppings for My Fave Birria Tacos?
- How do I make a vegetarian version of My Fave Birria Tacos?
- Can I customize the spice level in My Fave Birria Tacos?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: The combination of spices and chiles creates a deep, rich flavor that will leave you wanting more.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create an impressive meal without hassle.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the birria in advance for easy assembly when you’re ready to serve.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like cilantro and Pico de Gallo for a personal touch.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to make your Fave Birria Tacos come together smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
- Frying pan
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for slow-cooking the beef until tender while developing rich flavors.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients efficiently.
- Ladle: Perfect for serving the flavorful consomé alongside your tacos.

Ingredients
For the Birria
- 4 dried guajillo peppers
- 4 dried ancho chiles
- 4 chipotle peppers in adobo
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup organic beef stock (You can sub with water)
- 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 Tbsps Mexican oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground allspice
- 3 lbs. organic chuck roast beef, chopped into medium-large chunks
- 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
For Serving
- 12 organic corn tortillas
- Shredded Oaxaca cheese
- 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Pico de Gallo
How to Make My Fave Birria Tacos
Step 1: Prepare the Chiles
Begin by removing stems and seeds from the dried guajillo and ancho chiles. In a large pot, add these chiles along with chipotle peppers. Cover them with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until softened.
Step 2: Blend the Sauce
Once softened, transfer the chiles to a blender. Add chopped onion, garlic cloves, crushed tomatoes, beef stock (or water), apple cider vinegar, bay leaves, Mexican oregano, thyme, cumin, cinnamon, smoked paprika, ground allspice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
In the same large pot over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sear the chuck roast pieces on all sides until browned. Pour the blended sauce over the meat and add additional beef stock if needed to cover the meat partially.
Step 4: Braise
Cover the pot with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer gently for about 2 hours or until the beef is fork-tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Assemble Tacos
Once cooked, shred the beef using two forks. Warm corn tortillas in a frying pan over medium heat until pliable. Fill each tortilla with shredded beef and top with shredded Oaxaca cheese.
Step 6: Serve
Serve your tacos hot with fresh cilantro and Pico de Gallo on top. Enjoy your delightful Fave Birria Tacos!
How to Serve My Fave Birria Tacos
Serving my Fave Birria Tacos is all about enhancing their delicious flavors while keeping the experience fun and vibrant. Here are some fantastic ways to serve them:
With Fresh Toppings
- Chopped Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a burst of color and flavor.
- Sliced Avocado: Add creamy avocado slices for richness that complements the beef.
- Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges for a tangy squeeze that brightens each bite.
In a Flavorful Consomé
- Savory Broth: Offer a small bowl of the birria broth as a dipping sauce for a delightful, rich experience.
- Garnished with Onions: Top the consomé with diced onions and cilantro for added freshness.
Accompanied by Sides
- Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa adds zest and crunch, making each taco even more enjoyable.
- Mexican Rice: Serve alongside fluffy Mexican rice for a hearty meal.
How to Perfect My Fave Birria Tacos
To ensure your birria tacos reach their peak flavor and texture, consider these helpful tips:
- Bold Flavors: Use high-quality beef stock and spices to deepen the flavors of your birria.
- Marinate Overnight: For optimal tenderness, marinate the beef in the spice blend overnight before cooking.
- Crisp Tortillas: Fry tortillas in a bit of oil until golden brown for extra crunch and flavor.
- Cheese Melting Method: Place shredded cheese on the meat before folding the tortilla to achieve gooey perfection.
Best Side Dishes for My Fave Birria Tacos
Pairing side dishes with my Fave Birria Tacos can elevate your meal. Here are some great suggestions:
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice, perfect for adding sweetness.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and complement the tacos well; serve topped with cheese or onions.
- Guacamole: This classic avocado dip adds creaminess and freshness; serve it with tortilla chips or as a taco topping.
- Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips paired with zesty salsa offer a crunchy contrast to soft tacos.
- Cabbage Slaw: A light slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and lime provides crispness that balances the richness of the tacos.
- Rice and Beans Salad: A refreshing salad combining rice, black beans, corn, bell peppers, and lime dressing adds a healthy touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your My Fave Birria Tacos from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Bold choice of meat: Using the wrong cut of beef can lead to tough tacos. Always opt for chuck roast for tender, flavorful results.
- Bold seasoning errors: Not tasting your marinade before adding it may result in bland flavors. Adjust seasonings as needed for a perfect balance.
- Bold tortilla mishaps: Using stale or cold tortillas can ruin the taco experience. Warm them up properly before filling for the best texture.
- Bold ignore the broth: Skipping the consomé or not letting the beef cook long enough in it can lead to dry tacos. Take your time to develop those rich flavors.
- Bold toppings oversight: Neglecting fresh toppings, like cilantro and Pico de Gallo, will miss out on added freshness and flavor. Always top generously!

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover My Fave Birria Tacos in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing My Fave Birria Tacos
- Place cooled tacos in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating My Fave Birria Tacos
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap tacos in foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Check and stir halfway through for even heating.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add tacos and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about My Fave Birria Tacos that might help you.
Can I use chicken instead of beef in My Fave Birria Tacos?
Yes! Chicken can be a great substitute, just adjust cooking times accordingly.
What are the best toppings for My Fave Birria Tacos?
Chopped cilantro, diced onions, and Pico de Gallo are fantastic choices that add flavor and freshness.
How do I make a vegetarian version of My Fave Birria Tacos?
You can use mushrooms or jackfruit as a meat substitute, along with vegetable broth instead of beef stock.
Can I customize the spice level in My Fave Birria Tacos?
Absolutely! You can adjust the number of chiles used based on your heat preference.
Final Thoughts
My Fave Birria Tacos are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for any occasion. You can easily customize these tacos with various meats or toppings to suit your taste. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—your friends and family will thank you!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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My Fave Birria Tacos
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people (12 tacos) 1x
Description
Prepare to indulge in My Fave Birria Tacos—an irresistible combination of tender, flavorful beef and melted cheese nestled in warm corn tortillas. This recipe is perfect for taco night or any casual gathering, showcasing the rich flavors of a traditional birria while being easy to prepare and customize. With a savory consomé for dipping, these tacos will elevate your meal to new heights. Ideal for make-ahead preparation and versatile enough for various dietary preferences, you’ll be ready to impress family and friends with this fantastic dish.
Ingredients
- 4 dried guajillo peppers
- 4 dried ancho chiles
- 4 chipotle peppers in adobo
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes
- 3 lbs. organic chuck roast beef, chopped
- 12 organic corn tortillas
- Shredded Oaxaca cheese
- 1/2 cup organic beef stock (or water)
- 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 Tbsps Mexican oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground allspice
- 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Pico de Gallo
Instructions
- Prepare the chiles by removing stems and seeds; boil them with chipotle peppers until softened.
- Blend the boiled chiles with onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, beef stock (or water), vinegar, bay leaves, oregano, thyme, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- In a large pot, sear the beef in olive oil until browned; pour over the blended sauce and cover partially with stock.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for about 2 hours until the beef is tender.
- Shred the beef and warm the tortillas; fill each with shredded beef and Oaxaca cheese.
- Serve hot with fresh toppings like cilantro and Pico de Gallo.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling, Blending, Searing, Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos (150g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg





