Introduction
If you love flavorful Mexican dishes, beef birria is a must-try! This dish is a traditional Mexican stew made with tender beef and rich, spicy broth. Cooking it in a crockpot makes it even easier because you don’t need to stand by the stove for hours. Just add the ingredients, let the crockpot do the work, and in a few hours, you’ll have a meal full of bold flavors.
Birria is perfect for family dinners, tacos, or even special gatherings. It’s juicy, spicy, and comforting—a true crowd-pleaser. In this recipe, we will guide you step by step to make delicious Crockpot Mexican Beef Birria with minimal effort.
Ingredients – Crockpot Mexican Beef Birria
Here’s what you’ll need to make this tasty beef birria:
For the Beef:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Birria Sauce:
- 4 dried guajillo chilies
- 2 dried ancho chilies
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Diced onions
- Corn tortillas for serving
Tips:
- Remove the seeds from dried chilies for milder flavor.
- You can use blender or food processor to make the sauce smooth.
Step by Step Process – Crockpot Mexican Beef Birria
Follow these simple steps for a perfect birria:
Step 1: Prepare the Chilies
- Remove the stems and seeds from guajillo and ancho chilies.
- Soak them in hot water for 15 minutes until soft.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- Add soaked chilies, garlic, onion, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, cloves, apple cider vinegar, and diced tomatoes into a blender.
- Blend until smooth to create the birria sauce.
Step 3: Sear the Beef
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Season beef chunks with salt and pepper.
- Brown the beef on all sides for extra flavor (optional but recommended).
Step 4: Cook in the Crockpot
- Place the browned beef into the crockpot.
- Pour the blended birria sauce over the beef.
- Add beef broth and mix gently to combine.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.
- Check occasionally to ensure the beef is tender and fully cooked.
Step 5: Shred the Beef
- Once cooked, remove beef chunks and shred them with two forks.
- Return shredded beef to the crockpot and mix with the sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve hot with warm corn tortillas.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro, diced onions, and lime wedges.
- Enjoy your delicious, homemade Mexican beef birria!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Cholesterol | 85 mg |
| Sodium | 620 mg |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make birria without a crockpot?
Yes! You can cook it on the stove in a large pot on low heat for 3–4 hours until beef is tender.
Q2: Can I use other types of beef?
Absolutely! Chuck roast is ideal, but brisket or short ribs work well too.
Q3: How spicy is birria?
It depends on the chilies used. Removing seeds reduces heat, while keeping them makes it spicier.
Q4: Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat before serving.
Q5: Can I make it ahead of time?
Definitely. In fact, birria tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
Final Thoughts
Making Crockpot Mexican Beef Birria is easier than it looks. With simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can enjoy a traditional Mexican dish without stress. The tender beef, rich sauce, and aromatic spices make it perfect for family dinners or a festive meal.
Whether you enjoy it in tacos, over rice, or just as a hearty stew, this birria recipe is a guaranteed hit. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro, onions, and lime for that authentic Mexican touch. Next time you want a delicious and easy Mexican dish, try this recipe—you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner!
