Birria Enchiladas

Name: Birria Enchiladas
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3 lbs beef chuck roast; 6 dried guajillo chiles; 4 dried ancho chiles; 16 corn tortillas; 2 cups enchilada sauce; 2 cups shredded Oaxaca or Monterey Jack cheese; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Published: October 10, 2025

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavors: The combination of spices and slow-cooked meat creates an unforgettable taste that will have you coming back for more.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you don’t need to be a culinary expert to recreate these mouthwatering enchiladas.
Versatile Dish: Perfect for family dinners, festive occasions, or meal prep; these enchiladas fit any event or time of the week!
Comfort Food: This dish is all about warmth and satisfaction, making it ideal for cozy nights at home.
Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to experiment with different types of meat or sauces to make this recipe your own!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Birria Enchiladas.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Dutch oven
Skillet
Blender
Baking dish
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Dutch oven: Ideal for slow cooking the birria meat evenly while retaining moisture.
Blender: Essential for creating a smooth sauce that blends all the flavors beautifully.
Skillet: Used for warming tortillas and enhancing their flavor before assembly.

Ingredients

Tender, slow-cooked birria meat wrapped in warm corn tortillas, smothered in rich enchilada sauce, and topped with melty cheese and fresh garnishes. These Birria Enchiladas are comforting, flavorful, and perfect for a special dinner or an easy meal prep option.

For the Meat

3 lbs beef chuck roast (or short ribs, lamb, or goat)
6 dried guajillo chiles
4 dried ancho chiles
1 large white onion
6 garlic cloves
2 bay leaves
1 cinnamon stick
3 whole cloves

For the Spices

1 tsp Mexican oregano
1 tsp cumin seeds (or ground cumin)

For Assembly

4 cups beef broth
16 corn tortillas
2 cups enchilada sauce (homemade, store-bought, or birria consomé)
2 cups shredded Oaxaca or Monterey Jack cheese
½ cup crumbled Cotija cheese
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

How to Make Birria Enchiladas

Step 1: Prepare the Chiles

Remove stems and seeds from guajillo and ancho chiles. Toast lightly in a skillet until fragrant. Then soak them in hot water until softened.

Step 2: Blend the Sauce

Blend softened chiles with garlic, onion, cinnamon stick, cloves, cumin seeds (or ground cumin), Mexican oregano, and beef broth until smooth.

Step 3: Cook the Meat

Season the beef with salt and pepper. Sear it in a Dutch oven until browned. Cover it with the blended chile sauce along with bay leaves and remaining broth. Simmer on low heat for 2.5 to 3 hours until tender.

Step 4: Shred the Beef

Once cooked, remove beef from the pot. Shred it using two forks. Strain the broth to reserve it for later use in sauce preparation.

Step 5: Prepare the Tortillas

Warm corn tortillas on a skillet over medium heat until soft and pliable.

Step 6: Assemble the Enchiladas

Fill each tortilla with shredded birria meat. Roll it up tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish.

Step 7: Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour enchilada sauce over rolled tortillas generously. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.

Step 8: Bake

Bake at 375°F for about 15–20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Top your baked enchiladas with crumbled Cotija cheese and fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Birria Enchiladas!

How to Serve Birria Enchiladas

Birria Enchiladas are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation. These serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience and make every meal memorable.

With Fresh Garnishes

Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a burst of color and flavor.
Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges for a zesty kick that complements the rich flavors.

Accompanied by Dipping Sauces

Salsa Verde: A tangy green salsa adds freshness and acidity.
Creamy Avocado Sauce: This smooth sauce brings richness to balance the spices in the enchiladas.

As Part of a Platter

Rice and Beans: Serve alongside Mexican rice and refried beans for a hearty meal.
Pickled Onions: Add pickled red onions for a crunchy, tangy contrast.

With Sides of Cheese

Extra Cotija Cheese: Crumble more Cotija cheese on top for added creaminess.
Cheesy Queso Dip: Offer warm queso dip as an indulgent side for dipping.

How to Perfect Birria Enchiladas

To ensure your Birria Enchiladas turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips. They will enhance both the flavor and texture of your dish.

Use Quality Meat: Choose well-marbled beef chuck or short ribs for tender, juicy enchiladas.
Let the Sauce Rest: Allow your chile sauce to sit after blending; this helps deepen its flavor.
Warm Tortillas Properly: Heat tortillas just enough to soften them, making them easier to roll without tearing.
Layer Generously: Don’t skimp on the filling; generous portions of birria will make each bite satisfying.
Cover While Baking: Use foil during baking to trap moisture, ensuring the enchiladas remain soft and flavorful.
Broil for Finish: For extra crispy cheese, broil for a few minutes after baking until golden brown.

Best Side Dishes for Birria Enchiladas

Pairing side dishes with your Birria Enchiladas can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement their bold flavors beautifully.

Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices makes a great base for your meal.
Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and richness that balances well with enchiladas.
Corn Elote: Grilled corn on the cob topped with cheese and chili powder adds sweetness and crunch.
Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip offers a cool contrast to the spiciness of the enchiladas.
Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips paired with fresh salsa are perfect for snacking before the main course.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies bring freshness and color to your plate, enhancing visual appeal.
Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing salad made with corn, lime, cheese, and spices brightens up any meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Birria Enchiladas turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

Skipping the soaking step: Not soaking the chiles can result in a gritty sauce. Always soak them until softened for a smooth texture.
Overcooking or undercooking the meat: Cooking the meat for too long can dry it out, while not cooking it enough can make it tough. Aim for 2.5 to 3 hours of simmering.
Using cold tortillas: Cold tortillas can crack when rolled. Warm them on a skillet to make them pliable and easy to handle.
Neglecting the garnishes: Skipping fresh garnishes like cilantro and Cotija cheese can lead to a less flavorful dish. Don’t miss out on these finishing touches!
Not tasting for seasoning: Failing to taste the birria mixture before assembling can leave your enchiladas bland. Always adjust seasonings as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Ensure the enchiladas are completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Birria Enchiladas

Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Layer parchment paper between enchiladas to prevent sticking.

Reheating Birria Enchiladas

Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered with foil for about 20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual servings on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking until warmed through.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering until warmed, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Birria Enchiladas?

Birria Enchiladas are tortillas filled with tender, slow-cooked birria meat and topped with cheese and sauce, offering rich flavors and comfort.

Can I use different meats for Birria Enchiladas?

Yes! While beef is common, you can use lamb, goat, or even chicken based on your preference.

How do I customize my Birria Enchiladas?

Feel free to add additional toppings like avocado, sour cream, or jalapeños for added flavor and texture.

Can I make Birria Enchiladas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and sauce in advance and assemble when ready to serve.

How should I serve Birria Enchiladas?

Serve warm with sides like rice or beans and garnished with fresh cilantro and Cotija cheese for the best experience.

Final Thoughts

Birria Enchiladas are a delicious blend of flavors that are perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to customize fillings and toppings based on your taste preferences. Try making this comforting dish today!

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