As the aroma of spices wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but reminisce about those bustling street corners in Mexico, where vendors serve up crispy, juicy tacos like no other. My take on these delightful bites is my Crock Pot Beef Birria Tacos, a dish that brings that authentic street food experience right to your home. With just a few simple ingredients and a hands-off cooking method, you’ll discover how easy it is to whip up a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for Taco Tuesday or anytime you crave comfort food. The tender beef, infused with the rich flavors of guajillo and chipotle chiles, is paired with a savory consome that takes these tacos to another level. Curious about how to capture that magic in your own kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why Crock Pot Birria Tacos Rock?

Convenience: This recipe offers a hands-off cooking method – just set it and forget it! Perfect for busy days.

Authentic Flavor: Infused with aromatic spices and tender beef, these tacos deliver a truly savory experience reminiscent of street vendors.

Customizable: Tailor your tacos to your taste by swapping meats or adding toppings like jalapeños or cilantro!

Next-Level Dipping: The rich consome serves not just as a sauce, but also elevates your taco experience with its robust flavor.

Don’t forget to explore other comforting dishes like Crockpot Chicken Corn or Shrimp Mashed Potatoes for more tasty inspirations.

Crock Pot Birria Tacos Ingredients

For the Beef Filling
• Boneless Chuck Roast – This cut ensures tenderness and flavor; you can substitute with beef shoulder if that’s what you have on hand.
• Avocado Oil or Neutral Oil – Perfect for searing the beef and frying tacos; vegetable oil works as an economical substitute.
• Coarse Ground Salt and Fresh Ground Pepper – Essential for seasoning the beef; feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Dried Guajillo Chiles – Adds a unique smokiness with mild heat; if these are hard to find, dried New Mexico peppers can be a good alternative.
• Chipotle Chilis in Adobo (5-6) – They provide both heat and depth; remove seeds if you prefer milder flavors.
• Red Onion (1, thinly sliced) – A flavor base for the sauce; you can use white onion as an alternative if necessary.
• Garlic (8 whole cloves, smashed) – Adds aromatic depth; shallots are an acceptable substitute if you don’t have garlic.
• Beef Stock (32 oz) – This forms the sauce for cooking and enhances flavor; homemade or low-sodium store-bought options work great.
• Tomato Paste (1 tablespoon) – Introduces richness to the sauce; canned diced tomatoes can be swapped in for a lighter flavor.
• Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes (14.5 oz) – Contributes sweetness and acidity; regular diced tomatoes can work if fire-roasted are unavailable.
• Apple Cider Vinegar (1/4 cup) – Balances flavors with acidity; lime juice can replace it for a fresher taste.
• Ground Cumin (1 tablespoon) – Adds earthy flavor to enrich the dish.
• Dried Oregano (1 tablespoon) – Provides an herbal layer to the overall flavor profile.
• Cinnamon Stick (1) – Adds warmth, but feel free to omit if you prefer a simpler taste.
• Dry Bay Leaves (3) – Boosts depth of flavor; remember to remove them before blending.
• Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon) – Contributes a smoky undertone; regular paprika could be used as a substitute.
• Fresh Grated Ginger (1/2 tablespoon) – Introduces brightness to the sauce, powdered ginger can be swapped in if needed.
• Ground Coriander (1 teaspoon) – Offers a subtle earthy flavor; it can be omitted if you prefer.

For the Tacos and Garnish
• Corn or Flour Tortillas – Encapsulate the filling; corn tortillas add an extra crunch that many adore.
• Lime Wedges – A refreshing side that elevates the whole dish with zesty brightness.
• Fresh Cilantro Leaves – A vibrant garnish that enhances both color and flavor.
• Diced Onion – Provides added texture and freshness to your tacos.
• Shredded Oaxacan Cheese or Italian Cheese – Optional for Quesabirria, introducing a creamy touch to your tacos.

Now that you have the ingredients ready, get excited about the magic of crafting these delicious Crock Pot Birria Tacos!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crock Pot Beef Birria Tacos

Step 1: Sear Beef
Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat and add a splash of avocado oil. Season the boneless chuck roast generously with coarse salt and fresh ground pepper, then sear it in the hot skillet for 5-6 minutes on each side until a rich, brown crust forms. This step enhances the flavor of your Crock Pot Beef Birria Tacos.

Step 2: Cook in Crockpot
Transfer the seared beef to the crockpot and layer in the thinly sliced red onion, smashed garlic cloves, and dried guajillo chiles. Pour in the beef stock, followed by tomato paste, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, apple cider vinegar, and all of the spices. Stir well to combine everything evenly. Cover and set the crockpot on low for 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Shred Beef
Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the tender beef from the crockpot and place it on a rimmed baking sheet. Using two forks, shred the beef into bite-sized pieces, showcasing its juiciness and tenderness that will fill your delicious tacos. Set the shredded beef aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 4: Blend Sauce
Remove the bay leaves and cinnamon stick from the crockpot to ensure a smooth sauce. Using an immersion blender or a standard blender, blend the remaining sauce ingredients until silky and smooth. If using a standard blender, let the mixture cool slightly to avoid splattering. This rich sauce will be the perfect complement to your Crock Pot Beef Birria Tacos.

Step 5: Combine Beef and Sauce
Return the blended sauce back to the crockpot. Add 1.5 to 2 cups of the sauce to the shredded beef, mixing until every piece of beef is beautifully coated. This step elevates the flavors and ensures that each taco will be bursting with that savory goodness typical of birria.

Step 6: Prepare Tacos
To assemble, dip the corn or flour tortillas into the warm consome, then heat them on a skillet over medium heat. On one half of each tortilla, layer the shredded beef mixture, followed by diced onion and fresh cilantro, then top with cheese for a Quesabirria style. Fold the tortillas in half and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until crispy and golden brown, creating irresistible Crock Pot Beef Birria Tacos.

Make Ahead Options

These Crock Pot Beef Birria Tacos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the beef fill and sauce up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, simply sear the beef, combine it with the onions, spices, and stock in the crockpot, and let it cook. After cooking, shred the beef and blend the sauce, then refrigerate both components separately. This way, the flavors will meld beautifully without sacrificing quality. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the beef and sauce, assemble the tacos, and fry them to crispy perfection. You’ll enjoy delicious, homemade tacos on busy weeknights with minimal effort!

Storage Tips for Crock Pot Birria Tacos

Fridge: Store leftover Crock Pot Birria Tacos in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep the beef and consome separate to maintain texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shredded beef and consome together in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, warm the beef on the stovetop with some consome for a juicy texture. For tacos, crisp them up in a skillet to regain that delicious crunch.

Consome Storage: Store any extra consome in jars in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it in ice cube trays for easy future use.

Crock Pot Birria Tacos Variations

Feel free to tailor these delicious Crock Pot Birria Tacos to your taste and dietary needs, because there’s always room for creativity in the kitchen!

Instant Pot Method: For a speedy option, cut the beef into chunks and pressure cook for 60 minutes. It’s a fantastic shortcut without sacrificing flavor!
Pork Alternative: Swap out the chuck roast for pork shoulder. It will bring a different yet equally delightful flavor to your tacos.
Taco Heat: Enhance the spice level with the addition of fresh jalapeños or sliced serrano chiles to the filling for a zesty kick.
Vegetarian Twist: Use mushrooms or jackfruit instead of beef. Both options absorb the consome beautifully, creating a hearty vegetarian taco.
Toppings Galore: Get creative with toppings! Pickled red onions, avocado, or crumbled queso can elevate your tacos to new heights.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses, like crumbled feta or pepper jack, to add a unique twist to the quesabirria!
Consome Infusion: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of beer or a dollop of mole sauce to the consome while blending.

You might also enjoy making these savory toppings alongside your tacos, like Lemon Herb Potatoes to create a full feast or trying out Crockpot Chicken Corn for another comforting meal option. Chaos in the kitchen can lead to the best surprises, so don’t hesitate to experiment!

Expert Tips for Crock Pot Birria Tacos

Sear for Flavor: Always sear the beef before transferring it to the crockpot; this caramelization enhances the depth of flavor in your Crock Pot Birria Tacos.
Taste and Adjust: Before blending the sauce, taste it. If it’s too spicy, remove some chipotle chilis to tailor the heat to your preference.
Sauce Consistency: Blend the sauce to your liking; for a smoother consistency, strain it after blending. This ensures a velvety dip for your tacos.
Warm Tortillas: Keep your tortillas warm by dipping them in the consome before frying; this helps prevent sogginess and enhances flavor.
Taco Assembly: Don’t overload your tortillas; simpler fillings create a better balance and make it easier to fold and fry, leading to perfect Crock Pot Birria Tacos.

What to Serve with Juicy Crock Pot Beef Birria Tacos

As the fragrant steam rises from your beautifully crafted tacos, it’s time to think about delightful bites and sips that will complement this mouthwatering feast.

Creamy Avocado Salad: The rich creaminess of avocado contrasts perfectly with the savory tacos, adding freshness and color to your plate.
Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice, seasoned lightly with spices, serves as a perfect canvas to soak up the consome, creating a filling meal.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: This sweet, charred treat adds a delightful crunch and complements the spice of the birria, bringing summer vibes to your table.
Zesty Pickled Red Onions: Tangy and bright, these onions cut through the richness of the tacos, offering a refreshing bite that enhances every mouthful.
Fresh Pico de Gallo: A vibrant mix of tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the tacos, elevating the whole experience.
Frosty Margarita: A tangy, chilled margarita pairs beautifully, balancing the spicy notes of the birria with its citrusy zing, making for a perfect pairing!
Churros with Chocolate Sauce: For a sweet finale, indulge in light and crispy churros that offer a warm, sweet contrast to the spicy tacos, paired with rich chocolate sauce for dipping.
Lime Wedges: Never underestimate the power of lime! A squeeze adds a zesty brightness that refreshes your palate with every bite, elevating your tacos even further.

Crock Pot Beef Birria Tacos Recipe FAQs

What kind of beef should I use for Birria Tacos?
For the best flavor and tenderness, I recommend using boneless chuck roast. If unavailable, beef shoulder makes a great substitute as it also offers a rich texture. Just ensure whatever cut you choose has enough marbling to maintain moisture during the slow cooking process.

How should I store leftover Crock Pot Beef Birria Tacos?
Absolutely! Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To maintain the texture, I suggest keeping the shredded beef and consome separate until you’re ready to enjoy them again. This way, your tacos won’t get soggy when reheated!

Can I freeze Crock Pot Beef Birria Tacos?
Yes! You can freeze the shredded beef and consome together in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Just make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the bags in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stovetop with a splash of consome for juiciness.

What should I do if my sauce is too spicy?
If you find that your sauce is a bit too spicy for your taste, don’t worry! Before you blend it, simply remove some of the chipotle chilis. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime juice after blending to help balance out the heat. Always taste as you go; this way, you’ll craft a flavor that suits your palate perfectly!

Can pets eat Birria Tacos?
While the beef itself is generally safe for dogs, the spices and ingredients such as onion and garlic present in Birria Tacos are harmful to pets. It’s best to keep these delicious tacos for yourself and treat your furry friends to a vet-approved snack instead.

How long can I keep the consome in the fridge?
You can refrigerate leftover consome in a sealed jar for about a week. To store it longer, consider pouring it into ice cube trays and freezing. This allows you to use small portions whenever you desire, perfect for soups or sauces!