Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the sun sets, the smoky aroma of grilled burgers fills the air, but hold on—what if I told you that there’s a way to elevate this classic comfort food into something extraordinary? Enter the Smoked Beef Birria Burgers, a delicious fusion of juicy smoked patties and rich, slow-braised beef birria bursting with flavor. This recipe is perfect for casual dining, promising a unique twist that your palate won’t forget. Not only do these burgers stand out at any gathering, but they’re also surprisingly easy to make, allowing you to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Want to experience the satisfying blend of spices and texture in each bite? Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together! Why are Smoked Beef Birria Burgers unique? Bold Fusion: These Smoked Beef Birria Burgers bring together the best of both worlds, merging the irresistible taste of smoked burgers with the rich, traditional flavors of birria. Flavor Explosion: Each bite is a delightful experience, combining juicy, smoky patties with tender, savory beef birria, creating a multi-layered taste that’s simply unforgettable. Versatile Variations: Customize them easily—try swapping in ground turkey or lamb, or adding cheese for an extra delicious twist! Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for gatherings, these burgers will impress guests and family alike while remaining a breeze to prepare. Make-Ahead Magic: Prep the beef birria a day in advance to save time and enhance flavors—this step is a game-changer! Try pairing them with sides like fresh salads or Mongolian Ground Beef for a complete meal. Smoked Beef Birria Burger Ingredients Get ready to create a flavor-packed culinary delight with these ingredients! For the Birria Dried Guajillo Chiles – Adds depth and heat; substitute with Pasilla chiles for a milder flavor. Dried Ancho Chiles – Contributes sweetness and complexity; can be replaced by Mulato chiles if unavailable. Dried Chipotle Chiles – Imparts smoky flavor; substitute with smoked paprika for less heat. Water – Used to hydrate chiles and form the sauce. Beef Broth – Enhances flavor in the consomé. Garlic Cloves – Adds robust flavor; reduce the amount for a milder taste. Mexican Oregano – Offers authentic herbaceous notes; regular oregano can also be used. Dried Thyme – Provides earthy undertones. Ground Cinnamon – Adds subtle sweetness and warmth; essential for depth in the birria. Kosher Salt – Key seasoning; adjust to taste. Chuck Roast (4 lbs) – Ideal for braising due to its balance of fat and meat; substitute with short ribs for more richness. For the Burgers Ground Beef (2 lbs, 85/15 preferred) – The core of your smoked burger patty; ground turkey can be used for a leaner option. Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning. Canola Oil – For searing the beef; any neutral oil works well. For the Toppings Chopped Cilantro (1 cup) – A fresh garnish that brightens flavor. Diced White Onion (1 cup) – Adds crunch and freshness. Burger Buns (6) – Best served toasted for a delightful texture and taste. With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to enjoying Smoky, tender, and flavorful burgers that will keep everyone coming back for more! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Smoked Beef Birria Burgers Step 1: Make the Chile Sauce Start by toasting 3 dried Guajillo chiles, 2 dried Ancho chiles, and 1 dried Chipotle chile in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes, until fragrant. Then, soak the chiles in 4 cups of hot water for 30 minutes. After they soften, blend the chiles with 4 garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon Mexican oregano, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 2 cups beef broth until smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve for a velvety sauce. Step 2: Sear the Beef In a large Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of canola oil over medium-high heat. Season a 4-pound chuck roast generously with kosher salt and black pepper. Sear the roast on all sides for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until beautifully browned. This step builds a rich flavor base for your smoked beef birria burgers. Once browned, remove the roast from the pot and set it aside. Step 3: Sauce and Braise Return the seared beef to the Dutch oven and pour the blended chile sauce over it, ensuring the meat is well coated. Cover with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it braise for 2-4 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fork-tender and shreds easily. The sauce should bubble gently throughout, infusing your kitchen with a tantalizing aroma. Step 4: Shred the Meat Once the beef is tender, carefully remove it from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding any excess fat. If the sauce appears too oily, skim off some fat from the top. Return the shredded beef to the pot and stir it to absorb the delicious sauce. Step 5: Prepare the Burgers While the beef cools slightly, form 2 pounds of ground beef into 6 equal patties, approximately ¾ inch thick. Indent the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent puffing during cooking. Chill the patties in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, which helps maintain their shape and enhances flavor. Season the patties with salt and pepper just before cooking. Step 6: Smoke and Sear Preheat your smoker to a temperature of 250-275°F. Place the chilled patties into the smoker for about 1-1.5 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. For an added smoky crust, finish by searing the burgers in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side, allowing them to develop a beautiful char. Step 7: Assemble and Serve Toast the burger buns on the grill until golden brown. Layer each toasted bun with a smoked patty, generously top with the shredded beef birria, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro and diced white onion. Serve these Smoked Beef Birria Burgers with a small bowl of the rich consomé on the side for dipping, creating a messy yet delightful dining experience! How to Store and Freeze Smoked Beef Birria Burgers Fridge: Keep leftover smoked beef birria in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its savory flavors. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked beef birria separately from the burger patties in airtight containers. It can last up to 3 months without compromising taste. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat the beef in a saucepan over low heat, and warm the burger patties in a skillet or microwave until heated through. Assembly Tips: When assembling, toast the buns fresh before serving to retain their delightful texture alongside the rich, flavorful birria. What to Serve with Smoked Beef Birria Burgers As the enticing aroma of these delicious burgers wafts through your kitchen, consider these delightful pairings to create a complete meal. Grilled Corn: Sweet and smoky, grilled corn on the cob adds a charred sweetness that complements the rich flavors of the burgers. Crispy Fries: The classic crunch of golden fries balances the tender texture of the birria, making every bite a joy. Fresh Guacamole: Creamy, tangy, and full of flavor, guacamole adds a refreshing element that brightens each savory mouthful; serve it as a dip for chips or spread on the buns. Zesty Slaw: A vibrant slaw with lime and cilantro provides the perfect crispy contrast to the richness of the smoked beef birria burgers, adding lightness to the dish. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with a zesty salsa make for a delightful appetizer that complements the bold flavors of the burgers before the main event. Refreshing Beverage: Pair with a light cerveza or a fresh lemonade to cleanse the palate and elevate the experience with a thirst-quenching refreshment. When you set the table with these delightful sides, each element will shine alongside your Smoked Beef Birria Burgers, creating a dining experience that’s both satisfying and memorable! Make Ahead Options These Smoked Beef Birria Burgers are fantastic for meal prep, making busy weeknights easier and more delicious! You can prepare the beef birria up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the braising steps, allowing the flavors to deepen. Once cooled, store the shredded beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its moistness. For the burger patties, you can form and chill them up to 3 days ahead of time—just season them right before cooking. When ready to serve, smoke and sear the patties as directed, then assemble with the shredded birria, cilantro, and onion for a meal that’s just as spectacular as if made fresh! Variations & Substitutions for Smoked Beef Birria Burgers Customize your Smoked Beef Birria Burgers to make them your own and delight your taste buds! Ground Turkey: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner, healthier burger without compromising on flavor. Cheesy Goodness: Add a slice of your favorite cheese, like pepper jack or sharp cheddar, for an extra burst of richness. Melting cheese over the burger just before serving creates an irresistible appeal. Spicy Twist: Elevate the heat by adding smoked pickled jalapeños or a homemade spicy mayo for a delicious kick. You might just turn the tables on those who think they can handle spice! Vegetarian Option: Use black bean patties or add grilled portobello mushrooms for a hearty, vegetarian-friendly alternative that keeps all the flavors intact. Herb Swap: For a fresh twist, substitute cilantro with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of fresh lime juice for bright flavor notes. Your guests might be surprised at how a simple herb change can elevate their experience. Flavor Boost: Incorporate a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce into the ground meat mixture to enhance the umami flavor, creating a richer and more complex patty. Bun Variety: Switch up the burger buns! Try using brioche or whole wheat buns for different flavor profiles—or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative. Sides Recommendation: Pair your burgers with a vibrant fresh salad or serve alongside some comforting Beef Stroganoff Cozy for a complete meal that everyone will love! Feel free to explore these variations and dive deeper into a delightful culinary adventure! Expert Tips for Smoked Beef Birria Burgers Chill Before Cooking: Allow your burger patties to chill for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This helps maintain their shape and enhances flavor. Strain for Smoothness: Use a fine mesh strainer when preparing the chile sauce for your birria to achieve a velvety texture in the final dish. Check Internal Temperature: Ensure your smoked patties reach an internal temperature of 160°F for perfectly cooked burgers. This is crucial for both flavor and safety. Build Flavor While Braising: Use a Dutch oven for an even heat distribution while braising the chuck roast. This method enhances the depth of flavor in the birria. Add Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Consider smoked pickled jalapeños or a sprinkle of cheese to elevate your Smoked Beef Birria Burgers even more. Serve with Consomé: Don’t forget to serve your burgers with the rich consomé on the side for dipping. It adds a delightful finish to the overall experience! Smoked Beef Birria Burgers Recipe FAQs What type of chiles should I use for the birria sauce? For the birria sauce, I recommend using dried Guajillo chiles, dried Ancho chiles, and dried Chipotle chiles for the best flavor. However, if you’re looking for a milder option, you can substitute the Guajillo with Pasilla chiles and the Chipotle with smoked paprika. How should I store leftover smoked beef birria? Store leftover smoked beef birria in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to preserve its flavor and moisture. You can also enjoy the burger patties separately if you’d like! Can I freeze smoked beef birria? Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked beef birria in airtight containers for up to 3 months. It’s best to freeze it separately from the burger patties to maintain the best texture. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove. What can I do if the birria sauce is too thin? If your birria sauce ends up too thin, don’t worry! Simply simmer it in a saucepan over low heat until it thickens. Stir frequently to avoid burning the bottom. You can also blend in a little cornstarch mixed with water to help it thicken more quickly while keeping the flavor intact. Is this recipe suitable for people with gluten allergies? Yes, by using gluten-free burger buns, you can certainly make these Smoked Beef Birria Burgers gluten-friendly. Just ensure that any additional ingredients or sauces you’re using are also gluten-free. Always read labels for any pre-made ingredients like broth or seasoning. Can I prepare the beef birria in advance? Very much so! I often prepare the birria a day ahead of time. The flavors meld beautifully as it sits, enhancing the dish. Just refrigerate it and reheat gently before serving to enjoy a delicious meal without the stress on the day of your gathering! Smoked Beef Birria Burgers: A Bold Flavor Adventure Awaiting You Experience the bold fusion of smoked burgers and rich beef birria in this unforgettable recipe. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 1 hour hrCook Time 4 hours hrsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 5 hours hrs Servings: 6 burgersCourse: BeefCuisine: MexicanCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Birria3 pieces Dried Guajillo Chiles Substitute with Pasilla chiles for a milder flavor.2 pieces Dried Ancho Chiles Replace with Mulato chiles if unavailable.1 piece Dried Chipotle Chile Substitute with smoked paprika for less heat.4 cups Water Used to hydrate chiles and form the sauce.2 cups Beef Broth Enhances flavor in the consomé.4 cloves Garlic Cloves Reduce amount for a milder taste.1 tablespoon Mexican Oregano Regular oregano can also be used.1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Provides earthy undertones.½ teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Essential for depth in the birria.to taste teaspoon Kosher Salt Adjust seasoning to taste.4 lbs Chuck Roast Substitute with short ribs for more richness.For the Burgers2 lbs Ground Beef 85/15 preferred; ground turkey can be used for a leaner option.to taste teaspoon Black Pepper Essential for seasoning.2 tablespoons Canola Oil For searing the beef; any neutral oil works.For the Toppings1 cup Chopped Cilantro A fresh garnish that brightens flavor.1 cup Diced White Onion Adds crunch and freshness.6 pieces Burger Buns Best served toasted for delightful texture. Equipment Dutch ovenSkilletSmokerfine-mesh sieve Method Make the Chile SauceToast the dried chiles in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Soak the chiles in hot water for 30 minutes. Blend with garlic, oregano, thyme, cinnamon, and beef broth until smooth. Strain through a fine mesh sieve.Sear the BeefHeat canola oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chuck roast with salt and pepper. Sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned. Remove from pot.Sauce and BraiseReturn the seared beef to the Dutch oven, pour in the chile sauce, coat well, cover, and braise for 2-4 hours until fork-tender.Shred the MeatRemove the beef, shred with forks, return to pot, and stir to absorb the sauce.Prepare the BurgersForm ground beef into 6 patties, chill for 30 minutes, and season with salt and pepper.Smoke and SearPreheat smoker to 250-275°F. Smoke patties for 1-1.5 hours until internal temperature reaches 160°F. Finish by searing in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side.Assemble and ServeToast buns, layer with smoked patty, top with shredded beef birria, cilantro, and onion. Serve with consomé for dipping. Nutrition Serving: 1burgerCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 40gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 4mg NotesPrep the beef birria a day ahead for enhanced flavors. Serve with sides like fresh salads or Mongolian Ground Beef for a full meal. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
