Crockpot Birria Tacos (Easy & Authentic) – The Ultimate Slow Cooker Recipe

Crockpot birria tacos have taken the food world by storm, and for a good reason. These rich, flavorful, and tender shredded beef tacos are slow-cooked in a robust, spiced consommé, creating an irresistible dish perfect for any occasion. Traditionally, birria is made with goat or lamb, but this crock pot version simplifies the process while using beef for a more accessible and widely preferred option.

Slow cooking allows the meat to absorb the deep, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors of dried chilies, garlic, onions, and aromatic spices. The result is succulent beef, shredded to perfection and tucked into crispy, pan-fried corn tortillas dipped in the same rich broth. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or looking for a satisfying meal, these birria tacos will impress with their bold flavors and authentic taste.

Using a crock pot makes the cooking process effortless, eliminating the need for constant monitoring while allowing the flavors to develop over time. The slow cooker method ensures melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and the perfect balance of heat, smokiness, and umami from the broth.

In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make birria tacos from scratch, including the best meat choices, seasoning blends, and step-by-step instructions for a foolproof result. Get ready to enjoy one of the most delicious taco variations with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Key Benefits

Making birria tacos in a crock pot offers several advantages beyond just incredible flavor. This method ensures tender, juicy meat while keeping the process hassle-free. Here are the key benefits of this slow-cooked birria recipe:

1. Effortless Cooking

Using a crock pot means minimal hands-on time. Simply prepare the ingredients, let them simmer, and allow the slow cooker to work its magic. Unlike stovetop or oven methods, there’s no need to stir or monitor constantly.

2. Incredibly Tender Meat

Slow cooking allows the meat to break down gradually, creating fall-apart tenderness that’s easy to shred. The long, slow simmer ensures that the beef absorbs all the deep flavors from the consommé (rich birria broth).

3. Bold, Authentic Flavor

The combination of dried chilies, warm spices, garlic, onions, and tomatoes infuses the meat with a smoky, slightly spicy, and savory depth of flavor. This slow infusion enhances every bite, making these tacos taste like they came straight from a taqueria.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep & Leftovers

Birria tastes even better the next day. The broth continues to develop richness overnight, making leftovers even more flavorful. You can store and reheat birria easily for multiple meals, whether for tacos, quesadillas, or burrito bowls.

5. Versatile Serving Options

While birria tacos are the star of the show, the shredded meat can also be used for burritos, quesadillas, ramen, or nachos. This recipe offers flexibility in how you enjoy your leftovers.

6. Great for Feeding a Crowd

Since birria is made in large batches, it’s perfect for family dinners, parties, or gatherings. You can easily double the recipe to serve more people without extra effort.

By using a crock pot, you simplify the process without sacrificing quality, making it easier than ever to enjoy restaurant-style birria tacos at home. Now that you know why this method is a game-changer, let’s move on to the ingredients you’ll need.

Ingredients

To make authentic crockpot birria tacos, you’ll need a combination of beef, dried chilies, aromatic spices, and flavorful broth ingredients. Here’s everything required for the birria stew and the crispy tacos.

For the Birria (Meat & Broth)

• 3 pounds beef chuck roast or short ribs (or a mix of both for richer flavor)
• 2 dried guajillo chilies, stems and seeds removed
• 2 dried ancho chilies, stems and seeds removed
• 2 dried chipotle chilies (for smoky heat, optional)
• 1 large white onion, quartered
• 6 garlic cloves, peeled
• 2 Roma tomatoes, chopped
• 3 cups beef broth (or water with beef bouillon)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for tanginess)
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from canned chipotle peppers, optional)

For the Tacos

• Corn tortillas (street taco size, about 12)
• 1 cup shredded Oaxaca cheese (or mozzarella, Monterey Jack)
• 1 small bunch cilantro, chopped
• 1 small red onion, finely diced
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 1 cup consommé (reserved from cooking liquid, for dipping)
• Oil for frying (vegetable or avocado oil)

These ingredients create a rich, smoky, slightly spicy, and deeply flavorful birria, with enough broth for dipping. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the number of chipotle or ancho chilies.

Now that the ingredients are ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions for making the best birria tacos in a slow cooker.

Instructions: How To Make Crockpot Birria Tacos

Making crock pot birria tacos is a straightforward process. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing the meat to become tender and flavorful. Follow these steps for the perfect birria tacos:

Step 1: Prepare the Dried Chilies

1. Discard the stems and seeds from the guajillo, ancho, and chipotle chilies before using them.
2. In a small saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a simmer.
3. Add the dried chilies and let them soak for 10-15 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Blend the Birria Sauce

4. In a blender, combine the soaked chilies, onion, garlic, tomatoes, apple cider vinegar, adobo sauce (if using), smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper.
5. Add ½ cup of the chili soaking water and blend until smooth. Add more water as necessary to achieve a smoother, thinner consistency.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Meat

6. Place the beef chuck roast or short ribs in the crock pot.
7. Pour the blended birria sauce over the meat.
8. Add beef broth and bay leaves to the slow cooker.
9. Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 5-6 hours until the meat is fork-tender and easily shredded.

Step 4: Shred the Meat & Strain the Broth

10. Remove the cooked beef and place it on a cutting board.
11. Using two forks, pull the meat apart into tender, bite-sized shreds..
12. Strain the remaining broth through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any chili skins or solids. Reserve this consommé for dipping the tacos.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

13. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of oil.
14. Dip each corn tortilla into the reserved consommé, coating both sides lightly.
15. Place the tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with shredded Oaxaca cheese.
16. Add a portion of the shredded birria meat on top.
17. Fold the tortilla in half and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, pressing lightly, until crispy and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

18. Transfer tacos to a serving plate and garnish with chopped cilantro, diced red onions, and a squeeze of lime.
19. Serve with a side of the warm consommé for dipping.

These crispy, cheesy, and juicy birria tacos are packed with flavor and perfect for dipping into the rich broth. Now, let’s go over some pro tips and variations to make your tacos even better.

Pro Tips and Variations

To make your crock pot birria tacos even more flavorful and versatile, here are some expert tips and creative variations:

Pro Tips for the Best Birria Tacos

✔ Use a Meat Blend for Maximum Flavor

• While beef chuck roast is the most common choice, adding short ribs or beef shank creates a richer, deeper flavor. The bone-in cuts add natural gelatin to the consommé, making it silkier and more flavorful.

✔ Don’t Skip the Chili Soaking Step

• Soaking the dried chilies softens them, making them blend smoothly into the sauce. This step ensures a silky, lump-free birria sauce that coats the meat evenly.

✔ Adjust the Spice Level

• For a milder birria, reduce or omit the chipotle chilies. For more heat, add extra chipotle in adobo or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

✔ Crispier Tacos with Less Grease

• Instead of deep-frying, use just enough oil to lightly crisp the tortillas. Cooking over medium heat allows them to crisp up without burning.

✔ Make the Consommé Extra Rich

• After straining the broth, skim off excess fat, or blend a portion of the strained ingredients back into the consommé for a thicker, richer dipping sauce.

✔ Let the Meat Rest Before Shredding

• Allow the beef to sit for 10 minutes after cooking before shredding. This helps retain moisture, keeping the meat juicy and tender.

Recipe Variations

🔥 Birria Quesatacos (Cheesy Birria Tacos)

• Add an extra layer of melted cheese inside each tortilla for a gooey, cheesy twist. Oaxaca, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella work well.

🔥 Birria Ramen

• Use the leftover consommé as a broth for ramen noodles, adding shredded birria beef and toppings like scallions and a soft-boiled egg.

🔥 Birria Quesadillas

• Instead of tacos, make birria quesadillas by layering meat and cheese inside large flour tortillas, then griddling until crispy.

🔥 Birria Nachos

• Load tortilla chips with shredded birria meat, melted cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream for a next-level nacho platter.

🔥 Slow Cooker Birria Bowls

• Skip the tortillas and serve birria over rice or cauliflower rice with avocado, pickled onions, and queso fresco.

With these tips and variations, you can customize birria tacos to your taste, making them crispier, cheesier, or even turning them into entirely new dishes. Next, let’s explore the best ways to serve these delicious tacos.

Serving Suggestions

Birria tacos are best enjoyed hot, crispy, and dipped into the flavorful consommé. Here are some of the best ways to serve and pair them for a truly satisfying meal.

Traditional Serving Style

• Dip & Enjoy – Serve each taco with a small bowl of consommé for dipping. This enhances the flavor and keeps the tacos juicy.
• Garnish with Fresh Ingredients – Sprinkle chopped cilantro, diced red onions, and a squeeze of lime over the tacos for brightness and contrast.

Best Side Dishes for Birria Tacos

Pairing your tacos with complementary sides can enhance the meal:

✔ Mexican Rice – A side of fluffy, spiced rice balances the richness of the birria.
✔ Refried Beans – Creamy beans add texture and a comforting element to the meal.
✔ Guacamole & Salsa – Fresh guacamole, pico de gallo, or a smoky salsa roja pairs well with the tacos.
✔ Pickled Red Onions – The tanginess of quick-pickled onions cuts through the richness of the meat.
✔ Grilled Street Corn (Elote) – Sweet, smoky, and creamy elote complements the deep flavors of birria.

Drink Pairings

To complement the bold, spiced flavors of birria tacos, consider these drink options:

✔ Classic Agua Fresca – Refreshing drinks like horchata, tamarindo, or hibiscus (Jamaica) balance the spice.
✔ Margaritas or Micheladas – A tangy lime margarita or a spicy michelada pairs well with the smoky meat.
✔ Cold Mexican Beer – Crisp lagers like Modelo, Pacifico, or Negra Modelo help cut through the richness.

Birria Taco Party Idea

For a fun gathering, set up a birria taco bar with:
✅ Warm tortillas
✅ Shredded birria beef
✅ Assorted cheeses
✅ Fresh toppings (onions, cilantro, limes)
✅ Consommé for dipping

Let guests build their own tacos, making it an interactive and delicious experience.

Crock Pot Birria Tacos – Easy & Authentic Slow Cooker Recipe

This Crock Pot Birria Tacos recipe delivers fall-apart tender beef slow-cooked in a rich, spiced consommé. Learn the easy step-by-step method to make crispy, cheesy, and juicy tacos with minimal effort. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Resting Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 8 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Mexican, tex-mex

Servings 8 Tacos

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Slow Cooker (Crock Pot)
• Blender
• Skillet or Griddle
• Tongs
• Fine Mesh Strainer

Ingredients

  

• For the Birria Meat & Broth
• 3 lbs beef chuck roast or short ribs
• 2 dried guajillo chilies stems and seeds removed
• 2 dried ancho chilies stems and seeds removed
• 2 dried chipotle chilies optional for smoky heat
• 1 large white onion quartered
• 6 garlic cloves peeled
• 2 Roma tomatoes chopped
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tbsp adobo sauce from canned chipotle peppers, optional
• For the Tacos
• 12 corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded Oaxaca cheese or mozzarella
• 1 small bunch cilantro chopped
• 1 small red onion diced
• 1 lime cut into wedges
• 1 cup reserved consommé for dipping
• Oil for frying vegetable or avocado oil

Instructions

 

• 1️⃣ Prepare the Dried Chilies
• Remove stems and seeds from guajillo, ancho, and chipotle chilies.
• Simmer them in hot water for 10-15 minutes until softened.
• 2️⃣ Blend the Birria Sauce
• Blend soaked chilies with onion, garlic, tomatoes, vinegar, spices, and a little soaking water until smooth.
• 3️⃣ Slow Cook the Meat
• Place beef in the crock pot and pour the blended sauce over it.
• Add beef broth and bay leaves. Cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 5-6 hours.
• 4️⃣ Shred the Meat & Strain the Broth
• Remove the beef, shred it with two forks, and discard bones.
• Strain the cooking liquid to create a smooth consommé.
• 5️⃣ Assemble & Fry the Tacos
• Dip corn tortillas in consommé, place them on a hot skillet, and fill with shredded beef and cheese.
• Fold and fry until crispy and golden brown.
• 6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy
• Garnish with cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime.
• Serve with a side of consommé for dipping.

Notes

✔ Make-Ahead Option: Store leftover birria in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
✔ Spice Level: Adjust chipotle and adobo sauce to control heat.
✔ Serving Ideas: Use leftover meat for birria quesadillas, nachos, or ramen!

Keyword Authentic Birria, Beef Birria Recipe, Birria Consommé, Crock Pot Birria Tacos, Easy birria tacos, Mexican Birria Tacos, Quesabirria, Slow Cooker Birria

Conclusion

Crock pot birria tacos are an irresistible fusion of tender, slow-cooked beef, rich consommé, and crispy, cheese-filled tortillas. This recipe simplifies the traditional birria-making process, using a slow cooker to achieve deep, authentic flavors without constant supervision.

By following this guide, you’ll create restaurant-quality tacos that are packed with smoky, slightly spicy, and savory notes. The combination of dried chilies, aromatic spices, and long, slow cooking ensures melt-in-your-mouth beef with a flavorful broth perfect for dipping.

Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, party, or meal prep, birria tacos offer versatility and unbeatable taste. From classic tacos to creative dishes like quesatacos, birria ramen, and nachos, there are endless ways to enjoy this flavorful meat.

With the right ingredients, pro tips, and serving suggestions, you’ll master the art of making crispy, juicy, and cheesy birria tacos at home. Get ready to impress with one of the most delicious and popular Mexican street food dishes, all from the convenience of your slow cooker

FAQs

If you have any doubts about making birria tacos in a crock pot, here are some frequently asked questions to help: