These Smoky Beef Birria Burgers are a tasty twist on the classic burger! Juicy beef patties are mixed with spices and smoky flavors, making each bite a burst of deliciousness.
You’ll love how easy it is to make these! I like to top mine with cheese and serve them on fresh buns. It’s like a fiesta for your taste buds, and they’re perfect for sharing! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80/20 ground beef gives you juicy burgers. If you prefer leaner meat, 90/10 works, but you might lose some juiciness. You can also try ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter option.
Shredded Beef Birria: This adds fantastic flavor! If you don’t have birria on hand, you can substitute with leftover beef stew or roast beef, but the flavor will vary. Choose a recipe or pre-made birria that’s flavorful.
Dried Chilies: Guajillo and ancho chilies are key for the smoky flavor. If you can’t find them, consider using chili powder or cayenne for heat, but the taste won’t be the same. A little smoked paprika can help with the smokiness.
Cheese: I love using Oaxaca cheese for its melty texture. However, mozzarella or even cheddar works well too. For a dairy-free option, look for nut-based cheeses that melt nicely.
Burger Buns: Brioche buns are soft and rich, but you could use whole wheat or gluten-free buns to suit your needs. Make sure they are sturdy enough to hold the juicy fillings!
How Do You Get Perfectly Juicy Burgers?
Cooking burgers right can be tricky, but here’s how to get that perfect juicy bite. The key is to handle the meat gently and cook it at the right temperature.
- Mix the beef and spices just until combined; overmixing can make them tough.
- Maintain a medium-high heat when cooking; this creates a nice sear and locks in flavors.
- Use your thumb to create a small indentation in the center of each patty. This helps them cook evenly without puffing up.
- Avoid pressing down on the patties while cooking! It squeezes out juices and dries them up.
- Check for doneness with a meat thermometer if unsure; about 160°F is a safe temperature for beef.
Following these tips will ensure your burgers are juicy and bursting with flavor every time!
How to Make Smoky Beef Birria Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burger Patties:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
- 1 cup shredded beef birria (prepared or leftover birria meat)
- 3 dried guajillo chilies, stems and seeds removed
- 2 dried ancho chilies, stems and seeds removed
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt, divided
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 4 burger buns, preferably soft brioche or similar
- 1/2 cup finely chopped white onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Optional: melted cheese (like Oaxaca, mozzarella, or cheddar)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes of active cooking time, plus an additional 15 minutes to prepare the sauce. If you’re using leftover birria, this will speed things up! Overall, you can have these delicious burgers ready in under an hour.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Smoky Birria Sauce:
Start by preparing the smoky birria sauce. In a small pot, add the guajillo and ancho chilies, covering them with enough water. Bring to a simmer and let the chilies soak for around 15 minutes until they’re softened.
2. Blend the Sauce:
Once the chilies are soft, drain them and transfer to a blender. Add the chipotle pepper, garlic, beef broth, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, apple cider vinegar, and 1/2 tsp of salt. Blend all the ingredients together until you have a smooth sauce.
3. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with half of your smoky birria sauce (be sure to reserve the rest for serving later). Mix gently until combined, being cautious not to overwork the beef, which could make your burgers tough.
4. Form the Patties:
Divide the beef mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into burger patties.
5. Cook the Burgers:
Heat a grill or a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the burger patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on how you like them cooked. Aim for a tasty sear on the outside!
6. Warm the Shredded Birria:
While your burgers are cooking, take the reserved shredded birria meat and warm it in the remaining smoky birria sauce. This will keep the meat flavorful and moist.
7. Toast the Buns:
Lightly toast your burger buns on the grill or skillet for added texture and flavor.
8. Assemble Your Burgers:
Once everything is cooked, it’s time to put your burgers together! Start with a bottom bun, place a burger patty on top, then add a generous amount of the warm shredded birria meat. Top with the chopped onions and cilantro.
9. Add the Cheese (Optional):
If you’d like to include cheese, you can place it on the patty while it’s still on the grill for melty goodness, or sprinkle it over the birria meat.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Place the top bun on your burger and serve immediately. Don’t forget to include a small bowl of the reserved smoky birria sauce on the side for extra dipping!
Enjoy the rich smoky flavors and juicy beef patties that are enhanced by tender birria meat and fresh garnishes. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef! Just keep in mind that turkey may be a bit drier. To help with moisture, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or some sautéed onions to the turkey mixture.
Can I Make the Birria Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the smoky birria sauce a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just reheat it on the stove before using it in your burgers.
How Should I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them gently in the microwave or on a skillet, adding a splash of the reserved birria sauce to keep them moist.
What Can I Serve with These Burgers?
These Smoky Beef Birria Burgers pair wonderfully with crispy fries or tortilla chips. You can also serve them with a side salad or some roasted vegetables for a more balanced meal!
