Name: Savor the Flavor: Crock Pot Birria Tacos Done Right
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 480 min
Total time: 510 min
Ingredients: 3 pounds Boneless Chuck Roast (Substitution: Can use beef shank or similar cuts.); 2 tablespoons Coarse Ground Salt (Adjust to taste.); 1 teaspoon Fresh Ground Pepper (Feel free to personalize according to preference.); 2 tablespoons Avocado Oil (Substitution: Neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil works well.); 3 medium Dried Guajillo Chiles (Substitution: Can use dried New Mexico peppers if needed.); 5-6 pieces Chipotle Chilis in Adobo (Adjust for your taste! Remove seeds to reduce heat.); 1 medium Red Onion (Thinly sliced; no substitute needed.); 8 cloves Garlic (Whole and smashed; no substitute needed.); 32 ounces Beef Stock (Substitution: Homemade stock or vegetable broth (for a vegetarian option).); 1 tablespoon Tomato Paste (No substitute needed.); 14.5 ounces Fire-Roasted Diced Tomatoes (A delicious, sweet, and smoky component; no substitutions recommended.); 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar (Substitution: Fresh lime juice also works well.); 1 tablespoon Ground Cumin (No substitute needed.); 1 tablespoon Dried Oregano (No substitute needed.); 1 piece Cinnamon Stick (For warmth and depth; no substitute; can omit if unavailable.); 3 pieces Dried Bay Leaves (Enhances flavor as it cooks; no substitute needed.); 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Substitution: Sweet paprika for less heat.); 1/2 tablespoon Fresh Grated Ginger (Substitution: Ground ginger can also be used.); 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander (Substitution: Additional cumin can work in a pinch.); 12 pieces Corn or Flour Tortillas (Preference for corn for better crispiness.)

As I sat at my favorite local taco joint, I couldn’t help but relish every bite of their tantalizing Birria tacos. The crispy tortillas embraced tender beef, all lovingly dipped in a rich, flavorful consomé. Inspired, I set out to recreate this culinary delight at home, turning to my trusty crock pot for a hands-free approach. In this post, we’ll dive into making mouthwatering Crock Pot Birria Tacos that are not only utterly satisfying but also a breeze to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. You’ll love how the slow-cooked beef transforms into a delectable filling, and the homemade consomé is an epic bonus for dipping. Are you ready to bring the vibrant flavors of Mexico into your kitchen? Let’s get cooking!

Why is this recipe a must-try?

Ease of Preparation: Simply sear, slow-cook, and enjoy! This recipe makes it easy for anyone, regardless of culinary skills, to whip up delicious tacos.

Incredible Flavor: The blend of chipotle chilis, garlic, and tender beef creates a taste explosion that will have your taste buds dancing.

Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for taco nights or festive gatherings, these spicy, crispy tacos will impress your friends and family.

Versatile: Feel free to experiment with different proteins, like pork; the options are endless! For more variety, try serving with Crockpot Potato Soup or Baked Beef Tacos as side dishes.

Time-Saving: Let the slow cooker do the work for you—just set it up and come back to mouthwatering tacos. Enjoy the rich, aromatic consomé that adds an extra layer of flavor without much extra effort!

Crock Pot Birria Tacos Ingredients

For the Beef

Boneless Chuck Roast – This is your star ingredient, providing rich flavor and tenderness. Substitution: Can use beef shank or similar cuts.
Coarse Ground Salt – Essential for seasoning, enhancing the meat’s natural flavor. Note: Adjust to taste.
Fresh Ground Pepper – Adds a delightful kick. Note: Feel free to personalize according to preference.

For the Consomé

Avocado Oil – Perfect for searing the beef and frying your tacos. Substitution: Neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil works well.
Dried Guajillo Chiles – These add depth with mild heat. Substitution: Can use dried New Mexico peppers if needed.
Chipotle Chilis in Adobo (5-6) – Infuse smokiness and spiciness; adjust for your taste! Tip: Remove seeds to reduce heat.
Red Onion (1, thinly sliced) – Provides an aromatic base. No substitute needed.
Garlic (8 whole cloves, smashed) – Intensifies flavor. No substitute needed.
Beef Stock (32 oz) – The flavorful base for your cooking. Substitution: Homemade stock or vegetable broth (for a vegetarian option).
Tomato Paste (1 tbsp) – Adds richness and a tangy note. No substitute needed.
Fire-Roasted Diced Tomatoes (14.5 oz can) – A delicious, sweet, and smoky component. No substitutions recommended.
Apple Cider Vinegar (1/4 cup) – Brightens the flavors beautifully. Substitution: Fresh lime juice also works well.
Ground Cumin (1 tbsp) – This warm spice adds depth. No substitute needed.
Dried Oregano (1 tbsp) – Infuses an earthy flavor. No substitute needed.
Cinnamon Stick (1) – For warmth and depth in the consomé. No substitute; can omit if unavailable.
Dried Bay Leaves (3) – Enhances flavor as it cooks. No substitute needed.
Smoked Paprika (1 tsp) – Provides an extra layer of smokiness. Substitution: Sweet paprika for less heat.
Fresh Grated Ginger (1/2 tbsp) – Introduces a warm note. Substitution: Ground ginger can also be used.
Ground Coriander (1 tsp) – Adds a citrusy flavor to the mix. Substitution: Additional cumin can work in a pinch.

For the Tacos

Corn or Flour Tortillas – The base for your tasty tacos. Preference for corn for better crispiness.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crock Pot Birria Tacos

Step 1: Sear the Beef
Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Season the boneless chuck roast with coarse ground salt and fresh ground pepper, then carefully place it in the hot skillet. Sear each side for 5-6 minutes until it’s nicely browned. This step enhances the flavor, creating a delicious crust on the beef.

Step 2: Slow Cook
Transfer the seared beef to your crock pot and add all remaining ingredients, except the tortillas and toppings. This includes the dried guajillo chiles, red onion, smashed garlic, beef stock, tomato paste, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, and spices. Set your crock pot to low and let it cook for 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the beef to tenderize.

Step 3: Shred the Beef
Once cooking time is complete, carefully remove the beef from the crock pot. Use two forks to shred the meat, ensuring it’s fully pulled apart and tender. Discard the bay leaves and cinnamon stick from the pot, then return the shredded beef to the crock pot, allowing it to soak up the remaining consomé.

Step 4: Blend the Consomé
Using either a high-powered blender or an immersion blender, blend the remaining liquid in the crock pot until smooth. This will create a rich, cohesive consomé for dipping your tacos. Return the blended consomé to the crock pot to keep everything warm and flavorful.

Step 5: Coat the Beef
Take 1.5 to 2 cups of the blended consomé and pour it over the shredded beef in the crock pot. Toss gently to coat the beef evenly with the delicious, aromatic sauce. This step ensures each bite of your Crock Pot Birria Tacos is bursting with flavor as you prepare for the final assembly.

Step 6: Prepare the Tacos
To assemble the tacos, dip your corn or flour tortillas into the warm consomé to coat them lightly. Then, heat one tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the dipped tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side until crispy and golden. Add a sprinkle of cheese, followed by the flavorful shredded beef mixture, diced onions, and cilantro, then fold and fry again until golden.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the tacos are ready, serve them hot with the remaining consomé on the side for dipping. Garnish with lime wedges, fresh cilantro, and diced onion for a burst of freshness. Enjoy your delicious Crock Pot Birria Tacos, immersing yourself in the rich flavors that will keep everyone coming back for more!

Crock Pot Birria Tacos Variations

Feel free to get creative with these variations that elevate your Crock Pot Birria Tacos experience!

Pork Option: Swap the beef for pork shoulder for a slightly sweeter flavor. This variation captures the essence of classic birria with a twist.
Vegetable Delight: For a vegetarian option, use hearty mushrooms and proceed with the same cooking method. You’ll achieve a delightful depth of flavor while enjoying a plant-based feast.
Spice It Up: Increase the number of chipotle chilis for a spicier kick. Adjusting the heat can take your flavor profile to a whole new level!
Texture Upgrade: For added crunch, incorporate fried jalapeños or crispy cabbage on top of the tacos. This will provide a wonderful contrast to the tender beef.
Herbal Twist: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the shredded beef before serving. This brightens the dish and adds a fresh element that beautifully complements the rich consomé.
Smoky Variation: Experiment with a smoked paprika blend for the seasoning or use smoky adobo sauce instead of chipotle. This brings a robust smokiness that pairs wonderfully with the slow-cooked flavors.
Instant Pot Shortcut: In a pinch, use the Instant Pot to make these tacos. Sear the beef as directed, then cook everything on high pressure for about 45 minutes. This saves time without compromising flavor!
Rich & Creamy: For a luxurious twist, add a spoonful of sour cream or Mexican crema right before serving. This creamy addition will elevate your tacos, making each bite velvety and rich.

For a comforting side dish to complement these tacos, consider serving them alongside a bowl of Crockpot Potato Soup or crispy, cheesy Baked Beef Tacos. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Expert Tips for Crock Pot Birria Tacos

Choose Quality Beef: Use a well-marbled boneless chuck roast for maximum flavor and tenderness. Avoid lean cuts, as they may dry out during slow cooking.
Sear Well: Don’t skip the searing step! Properly browning the beef adds a rich depth of flavor that elevates your Crock Pot Birria Tacos.
Adjust Heat Levels: Test chipotle chilis for spice and adjust to taste. Remove seeds for milder tacos, ensuring everyone enjoys them without overwhelming spice.
Thickening the Consomé: If you prefer a thicker consomé, blend only half and add the rest back to the crock pot slowly. This creates a luscious, rich dipping sauce.
Tortilla Prep: For the crispiest results, soak the tortillas in consomé before frying. This adds flavor while giving a delightful crunch to your tacos.
Leftover Love: Store any leftovers in an airtight container. They stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months without losing flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Crock Pot Birria Tacos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can actually prepare the beef and consomé up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the initial steps of searing and slow cooking the beef, then let the consomé cool before refrigerating it in an airtight container. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the beef and consomé in the crock pot until warmed through, shred the beef, and proceed with the taco preparation as outlined in the recipe. With this make-ahead strategy, you’ll save valuable time and still serve delicious, restaurant-quality Crock Pot Birria Tacos with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Juicy Crock Pot Birria Tacos?

Elevate your taco night with these mouthwatering pairings that complement each bite of your delicious Birria tacos!

Crispy Tortilla Chips: Freshly fried or baked, these hearty chips provide the perfect crunch and are ideal for dipping in the rich consomé.
Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Charred corn slathered in creamy lime mayo and cheese brings bright flavors and a touch of sweetness alongside your savory tacos.
Fresh Guacamole: The creamy, zesty avocado dip offers a cooling contrast to the spicy, rich flavors of the tacos while adding a luscious texture.
Mexican Rice: Fragrant and flavorful, this dish rounds out your meal with comforting carbs that soak up the flavors beautifully.
Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa adds vibrant colors and a zesty crunch, balancing the richness of the Birria while enhancing every mouthful.
Margaritas: Refreshing and citrusy, a classic margarita pairs exceptionally well, cutting through the richness and enhancing the meal’s festive vibe.
Flan or Tres Leches Cake: End your meal on a sweet note with these traditional desserts, providing a luscious finish that contrasts beautifully with the savory flavors.

How to Store and Freeze Crock Pot Birria Tacos

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days to preserve flavor and freshness. This way, you can enjoy the savory goodness anytime!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the beef and consomé together in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s well-sealed to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or consomé to maintain moisture.

Assembling Tacos: If you have leftover components, reassemble your tacos by dipping tortillas in the warmed consomé, frying them up, and filling them with that irresistible beef mixture!

Crock Pot Birria Tacos Recipe FAQs

What type of beef is best for making Crock Pot Birria Tacos?
Absolutely, I recommend using a boneless chuck roast for its rich flavor and tenderness. It’s well-marbled, which helps it stay juicy during the slow cooking process. If you can’t find chuck roast, beef shank is a great alternative and will still deliver excellent results.

How should I store leftovers from Crock Pot Birria Tacos?
To ensure the best flavor, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to let them cool before sealing, which helps prevent excess moisture. You can also store the shredded beef in its consomé to keep it moist.

Can I freeze Crock Pot Birria Tacos?
Yes, you can freeze these tacos! For optimal flavor retention, place the beef and consomé in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove.

What if my consomé is too thick?
No worries! If your consomé turns out thicker than desired, you can easily adjust the consistency. Just add a little beef stock or water to the consomé while gently reheating it on low heat, stirring until you reach your preferred thickness. This tip helps keep your dipping sauce deliciously adaptable!

Are there any dietary considerations for making these tacos?
Very much so! You can make these Crock Pot Birria Tacos gluten-free by choosing corn tortillas instead of flour. Additionally, if you’re accommodating allergies, always verify that the ingredients, especially any stock or broth, are allergy-friendly. Enjoy the rich flavors without worry!

How do I know if my beef is tender enough for shredding?
Great question! The beef is ready for shredding when it becomes fork-tender, which usually takes around 8 hours of slow cooking in the crock pot. You should be able to shred it easily with two forks without any resistance. If it’s still tough, let it cook for an additional 30 minutes to an hour.