Easy Birria Quesadilla Recipe: A Savory Mexican Feast

Discover how to make the perfect birria quesadillas with tender, slow-cooked meat and gooey cheese. Served with a rich consommé dip, this flavorful Mexican dish is sure to become a favorite!

If you’re a fan of flavorful Mexican dishes like birria quesadillas, you might also love our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for a delicious pasta dinner option

What Are Birria Quesadillas?

Birria quesadillas are a delicious and unique fusion of two beloved Mexican dishes: birria and quesadillas. While a traditional quesadilla consists of cheese and other fillings placed between two tortillas and then cooked to crispy perfection, birria quesadillas take this concept to the next level by incorporating birria, a flavorful, slow-cooked meat, into the mix.

Birria itself is a rich and savory stew made from goat, beef, or lamb, simmered for hours in a blend of spices and chilies, resulting in tender, flavorful meat. This tender meat is typically served with its own broth (consommé) and enjoyed as a soup or in tacos. In the case of birria quesadillas, the cooked birria meat becomes the star filling, replacing the usual cheese-only center of a classic quesadilla.

Ingredients for Birria Quesadillas

To make delicious birria quesadillas, you’ll need a combination of savory birria meat, cheese, and tortillas. Below is a list of the ingredients with suggested measurements:

1. Birria Meat (2-3 cups)

• Meat: You can use goat, beef, or lamb for the birria. Beef chuck roast is a popular choice for a tender, flavorful result.
• Seasoning: For the birria stew, you’ll need dried chilies (such as guajillo and ancho), garlic, onion, cumin, oregano, and cinnamon. The meat should be slow-cooked to tender perfection and shredded for the quesadilla filling.

2. Cheese (1 ½ cups shredded)

• Cheese Options: Oaxaca cheese or mozzarella works well for its meltiness. You can also add cheddar or Monterey Jack for a creamier texture.

3. Tortillas (4-6 small flour tortillas)

• Tortillas: Flour tortillas are preferred for birria quesadillas as they crisp up nicely and hold the filling well. You can use corn tortillas as well if you prefer a more traditional taste.

4. Oil or Butter (2 tablespoons)

• Oil or Butter: To cook the quesadilla to golden, crispy perfection, use either butter or vegetable oil to lightly brush or coat the outside of the tortilla.

5. Chopped Onion (2 tablespoons, optional)

• Onion: Finely chopped onions add a sweet and savory element to the quesadilla. You can sauté the onions beforehand for extra flavor or use them raw.

6. Chopped Cilantro (1 tablespoon, optional)

• Cilantro: Adds freshness and a burst of color to the quesadilla, pairing beautifully with the rich flavors of the birria.

7. Lime Wedges (for serving, optional)

• Lime: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty touch to the birria quesadillas when serving.

8. Consommé (for dipping, optional)

• Consommé: The flavorful broth from the birria stew can be served on the side as a dip for the quesadillas, giving them an extra layer of depth and authenticity.

These ingredients combine to create a rich, savory filling that complements the crispy tortilla, delivering a delicious birria quesadilla that is sure to satisfy your cravings. Adjust the quantities depending on how many servings you want to prepare.

Birria often uses beef or goat meat, but if you’re looking for another savory option, check out our Shrimp Scampi recipe, which also packs in rich flavors.

How to Make Birria Quesadillas: Step-by-Step Guide

Birria quesadillas are a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the rich, tender meat of birria with the crispy, cheesy goodness of a quesadilla. If you’re craving a savory meal, this step-by-step guide will show you how to make the perfect birria quesadillas. Follow the instructions carefully and enjoy this mouthwatering dish in no time!

For a deeper understanding of slow-cooked meats, read our guide on making Crockpot Marry Me Chicken, which uses a similar slow-cooking technique to create tender, flavorful chicken.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Birria:

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast or goat meat (cut into chunks)
• 3 dried guajillo chilies
• 2 dried ancho chilies
• 1 dried pasilla chili
• 1 onion, quartered
• 4 garlic cloves
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 4 cups beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste.

For the Quesadilla

• 8 small flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded Oaxaca cheese (or mozzarella)
• 1 tbsp oil for frying
• Fresh cilantro, diced onions, and lime wedges for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Birria Meat

Start by preparing the birria meat. First, in a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Season the chunks of beef or goat meat with salt and pepper. Brown the meat in batches to ensure it’s evenly seared on all sides. This will lock in the flavors and juices. After the meat is browned, set it aside.

Next, you’ll prepare the birria sauce. Begin by toasting the dried guajillo, ancho, and pasilla chilies in a dry pan for about 2-3 minutes. This step is important as it enhances the flavors of the chilies. Once they’re toasted, remove the seeds and stems, then soak the chilies in hot water for about 20 minutes until they soften.

While the chilies are soaking, add the quartered onion, garlic cloves, cumin, oregano, and cinnamon to a blender. Once the chilies are ready, add them to the blender as well, along with 1 cup of the beef broth. Blend everything together until it forms a smooth sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Birria

Now that your sauce is ready, return the browned meat to the pot. Pour the blended sauce over the meat, then add the remaining beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil and then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 2-3 hours until the meat is tender and easily shreddable. Remember, the longer you cook the meat, the more flavorful and tender it becomes.

Once the meat is done, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Don’t forget to save the consommé (the rich broth) for dipping later!

Step 3: Assemble the Quesadillas

After the birria is ready, it’s time to assemble your quesadillas. Heat a large pan over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Place one tortilla in the pan and heat it for about 30 seconds on each side. This step makes the tortilla more pliable and easier to fold later.

Once your tortilla is heated, it’s time to add the cheese. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded Oaxaca cheese (or mozzarella) on one half of the tortilla. Then, top the cheese with a few spoonfuls of the shredded birria meat. Be sure not to overfill, as you’ll need to fold the tortilla.

Step 4: Cook the Quesadillas

Carefully fold the tortilla in half to form a quesadilla. Continue to cook on both sides until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted. This should take about 2-3 minutes on each side. For extra crispiness, you can add a little more oil as needed.

Once the quesadilla is ready, remove it from the pan and place it on a cutting board. Slice it into wedges.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Finally, it’s time to serve your birria quesadillas! Arrange them on a plate and garnish with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime. For the ultimate experience, serve the quesadillas with a side of consommé for dipping. This adds an extra layer of flavor and makes every bite even more satisfying.

Different Variations of Birria Quesadillas

Birria quesadillas are a delicious twist on the classic Mexican dish, there are several variations you can try to give this dish a unique spin. Here are some exciting variations of birria quesadillas to explore :

1. Classic Birria Quesadilla

• The traditional version of birria quesadillas involves using slow-cooked beef or goat birria, melted cheese, and a crispy tortilla. This variation stays true to the original flavors and is sure to satisfy.

2. Chicken Birria Quesadilla

• For a lighter option, you can substitute the beef or goat with tender, slow-cooked chicken birria. The rich broth and spices still shine through, providing a delicious twist on the classic.

3. Vegetarian Birria Quesadilla

• Replace the meat with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or jackfruit, cooked in the same savory birria broth. This vegetarian version offers a unique and flavorful alternative that everyone can enjoy.

4. Vegan Birria Quesadilla

• For a completely plant-based version, use vegan cheese and a plant-based meat substitute such as soy or tempeh. The birria broth can be made with vegetable stock and spices, keeping all the rich flavors without any animal products.

5. Spicy Birria Quesadilla

• For those who enjoy a bit of heat, you can add extra chili peppers or hot sauce to the birria filling. Jalapeños, serranos, or chipotle peppers work great in enhancing the spiciness of the quesadilla.

6. Cheesy Birria Quesadilla

• Add extra cheese to your quesadilla for a gooey, melty experience. A combination of mozzarella, Oaxaca cheese, or even cheddar can create a rich, indulgent quesadilla to complement the birria filling.

7. Birria Quesadilla with Pineapple

• Sweeten the deal by adding small chunks of pineapple to the quesadilla filling. The tropical fruit balances the richness of the birria and brings a fresh, sweet element to each bite.

How to Serve Birria Quesadillas

Birria quesadillas are a deliciously indulgent dish that can be served in numerous ways, here are several ways to serve birria quesadillas:

1. With Consommé Dip

A popular choice is serving birria quesadillas with a side of consommé, the rich, flavorful broth traditionally paired with birria. This dip enhances the experience by adding moisture and flavor, allowing you to dip each crispy bite into the savory broth for a more indulgent meal.

2. Topped with Fresh Garnishes

To introduce freshness, top your birria quesadillas with ingredients like chopped cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime. These garnishes create a vibrant contrast to the rich quesadilla, adding a zesty and bright flavor.

3. With Guacamole or Salsa

For an extra layer of flavor, pair your birria quesadillas with homemade guacamole or salsa. The creamy texture of the avocado or the tanginess of the salsa complements the savory and spicy birria, adding a refreshing touch to the dish.

4. Served with Mexican Rice and Beans

For a heartier meal, consider serving birria quesadillas alongside traditional Mexican sides such as Mexican rice and refried beans. These sides complement the rich quesadilla and help balance the overall flavors of the dish.

5. With Pickled Vegetables

Pickled onions, jalapeños, or carrots are excellent additions to birria quesadillas. The tangy and slightly spicy pickled vegetables provide a refreshing burst of flavor that contrasts perfectly with the richness of the quesadilla.

6. As a Meal with a Side Salad

For a lighter option, pair your birria quesadillas with a simple side salad. A fresh salad made with lettuce, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a crisp, refreshing contrast to the hearty quesadilla.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What kind of meat is used in birria?
   Typically, birria is made with beef, goat, or lamb. However, you can also use chicken for a lighter option. The meat is slow-cooked until tender, absorbing all the rich, spicy flavors of the broth.
2. Can I make the birria ahead of time?
   Yes, birria can be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors improve the next day as they have more time to meld together. Simply store the birria in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
3. What is the best cheese for birria quesadillas?
   The best cheese for birria quesadillas is a meltable cheese such as Oaxaca cheese, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack. These cheeses have a great melt and complement the savory flavors of the birria perfectly.
4. Can I make birria quesadillas without tortillas?
   If you’re looking for a gluten-free or low-carb alternative, you can replace the tortillas with lettuce wraps or use gluten-free tortillas. While it will change the texture, it’s a delicious alternative.
5. Can I use store-bought birria instead of making it from scratch?
   Absolutely! While homemade birria is flavorful and rewarding, you can save time by using store-bought birria, which is often available in specialty markets. Just reheat and assemble the quesadillas.
6. How do I store leftover birria quesadillas?
   To store leftover birria quesadillas, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat them, reheat in a pan to restore some of the crispiness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, birria quesadillas are a delightful and versatile dish that can be tailored to suit any preference. Whether you prefer the classic beef or goat version, or you opt for a lighter or vegetarian alternative, birria quesadillas offer endless possibilities. Additionally, with tips for making them ahead of time, customizing the heat level, or storing leftovers, you can easily enjoy this flavorful dish at your convenience. So, whether you’re making them from scratch or using store-bought birria, the end result is sure to be delicious! Don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations and make this dish your own.

Print