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Crispy, Cheesy Quesabirria Tacos

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  • Author: cozykitcheneats
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours
  • Total Time: 3 hours 20 minute
  • Yield: 12 tacos
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

These Crispy, Cheesy Quesabirria Tacos are a mouthwatering twist on traditional birria tacos. Filled with juicy, flavorful beef, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas, these tacos are perfect for taco lovers craving something extra special!


Ingredients

  • 2 lbs beef chuck roast or short ribs (cut into large chunks)

  • 4 dried guajillo chilies, stems and seeds removed

  • 2 dried ancho chilies, stems and seeds removed

  • 1 onion, quartered

  • 4 cloves garlic, peeled

  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon cumin

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • 4 cups beef broth

  • Salt to taste

For the Tacos:

 

  • 12 small corn tortillas

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella or Oaxaca cheese

  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro

  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion

  • Lime wedges (for serving)


Instructions

  1. Make the Birria:

    • In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the dried guajillo and ancho chilies for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.

    • Place the toasted chilies into a bowl of hot water and soak for 15 minutes until softened.

    • In a blender, combine the soaked chilies, onion, garlic, apple cider vinegar, oregano, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth.

    • In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the beef chunks and pour in the chili sauce mixture. Add the beef broth and bring to a boil.

    • Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2-3 hours until the beef is tender and easily shreddable.

    • Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Strain the remaining broth and set it aside for dipping.

  2. Assemble the Quesabirria Tacos:

    • Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly warm the corn tortillas for 30 seconds on each side.

    • Dip each tortilla into the strained birria broth, then place it back onto the hot skillet.

    • Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese onto one half of the tortilla, and top with a handful of the shredded beef.

    • Fold the tortilla over to form a taco and cook until the outside is crispy and golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.

    • Repeat the process for the remaining tacos.

  3. Serve:

    • Top the tacos with chopped cilantro and onion.

    • Serve with lime wedges and a side of the birria broth for dipping.


Notes

  • You can use flour tortillas instead of corn for a different texture.

  • The birria broth can be used for dipping the tacos for an authentic experience.

  • If you prefer a spicier version, add more dried chilies or a jalapeño when making the sauce.