As the sun sets and the warmth of the evening settles in, there’s nothing quite like the sizzle of a skillet preparing for taco night. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Authentic Quesabirria Tacos with Melted Oaxaca Cheese. These delectable tacos elevate your usual dinner fare, boasting tender beef birria wrapped in crispy corn tortillas, perfectly complemented by gooey cheese. Not only are these tacos a satisfying treat for any Taco Tuesday, but they’re also gluten-free and sure to impress guests with their authentic flavors. Picture a cozy gathering with friends, savoring these delicious bites dipped in rich birria broth—it’s the kind of meal that brings people together. Ready to indulge in this mouthwatering experience? Let’s dive into making your new favorite tacos!

Why Are Quesabirria Tacos So Irresistible?

Savory Delights: These tacos are a flavor explosion, featuring tender beef birria nestled in warm, crispy tortillas that are simply divine when paired with rich broth.

Melted Goodness: The oozing Oaxaca cheese adds an unbeatable creaminess, creating a satisfying texture that keeps you coming back for more.

Easy to Make: This recipe is designed with simplicity in mind, ensuring that anyone can whip up these indulgent tacos with basic cooking skills.

Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively gathering with friends, these tacos are a crowd-pleaser that sparks joy around the table.

Versatile Options: You can switch things up by using chicken or pork, or try different cheeses for a personal twist—check out my Birria Tacos Melt for more creative ideas!

Quesabirria Tacos Ingredients

For the Tacos
• Shredded Beef Birria – The star of the show, providing rich flavor; substitute with chicken or pork for a delicious twist.
• Thick Corn Tortillas – Essential for a chewy texture; avoid thin tortillas to prevent tearing when dipped in broth.
• Oaxaca Cheese – Melts beautifully to give that creamy, gooey texture; Monterey Jack is a great alternative if needed.

For the Toppings
• Diced Red Onions – Adds a crunchy bite and sharp flavor; for a milder taste, use sliced green onions instead.
• Fresh Chopped Cilantro – Offers a burst of freshness and color; optional but highly recommended for garnish.
• Limes (sliced into wedges) – Provides a zesty brightness that enhances the overall flavor; never skip fresh lime wedges for serving.

For the Birria Broth
• Birria Broth (Consomé) – The soul of the dish, used for dipping and flavoring the tacos; its rich, savory taste is essential for authentic Quesabirria Tacos.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Quesabirria Tacos

Step 1: Prepare the Birria
Start by marinating the beef in a mix of spices and your choice of broth, allowing it to absorb the flavors for at least 2 hours—preferably overnight. Slow-cook the marinated beef in a Dutch oven or slow cooker on low for about 4–6 hours, until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork. Once cooked, reserve the savory birria broth for dipping later.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet
On medium-high heat, warm a large skillet or cast-iron griddle and gently coat it with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil. Allow the skillet to reach a steady temperature, ensuring a nice crisp on your tortillas when you start cooking. You’ll know it’s ready when a drop of water sizzles upon contact with the surface.

Step 3: Dip Tortilla
Take a thick corn tortilla and immerse it in the warm birria broth, ensuring both sides are coated well. This step is crucial for infusing the tortillas with flavor and preparing them for frying. Let them soak for just a few seconds until they are pliable but not falling apart, ready to hold all the delicious fillings.

Step 4: Cook Tortilla
Place the dipped tortilla on the hot skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, or until it’s warm and slightly crispy. Flip the tortilla carefully to ensure even cooking. This brief toasting time will enhance the texture and create a slight golden-brown color, signaling that it’s perfect for folding over your scrumptious filling.

Step 5: Add Filling
On one half of the cooked tortilla, layer approximately 2 tablespoons of shredded Oaxaca cheese followed by a generous 1/4 cup of shredded beef birria. The combination of melted cheese and juicy beef is essential for authentic Quesabirria Tacos. Carefully fold the tortilla over to create a half-moon shape, cradling the melty goodness inside.

Step 6: Melt Cheese
Continue cooking the folded taco for another 30–60 seconds, pressing down gently on the tortilla with a spatula. This allows the cheese to melt thoroughly, creating that irresistible gooey texture. Keep an eye on the tortilla, ensuring it doesn’t burn; it should be golden and crisp on the outside.

Step 7: Serve
Once the cheese has fully melted and the taco is crispy, remove it from the skillet and place it on a serving plate. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling. For an extra touch, top your tacos with diced red onions, chopped cilantro, and serve with lime wedges and a bowl of warm consomé for dipping—an essential element for enjoying Quesabirria Tacos!

Tips for the Best Quesabirria Tacos

Use Thick Tortillas: Fresh, thick corn tortillas prevent tearing when dipped in broth. Thin tortillas can lead to a messy taco experience.
Gentle Reheating: If using leftover birria, reheat it gently in the broth to maintain moisture and tenderness, ensuring delicious Quesabirria Tacos.
Perfect Crispy Tacos: For a crispy finish, consider baking the filled tortillas at 375°F for a few minutes after assembling. This adds a delightful crunch.
Experiment with Cheese: While Oaxaca cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor and spice.
Add Spice Carefully: If you’re looking for heat, mix in diced jalapeños or chili powder within your beef marinade, but start small—that’s how you can elevate your Quesabirria experience!

What to Serve with Authentic Quesabirria Tacos

Create a flavor-packed meal that perfectly complements your taco feast.

Creamy Guacamole: Smooth and rich, guacamole’s fresh avocado adds a delightful creaminess that balances the savory spices of the tacos.
Spicy Mexican Street Corn: This dish offers a burst of sweetness and crunch, coated in tangy lime and chili powder, making it an irresistible side for your hearty tacos.
Crispy Tortilla Chips with Salsa: The salty crunch of tortilla chips paired with fresh, zesty salsa provides the perfect contrast to the indulgent tacos.
Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans bring a comforting texture and hearty flavor, perfectly complementing the rich beef filling of each taco.
Pico de Gallo: A fresh burst of diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds brightness to your meal, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the tacos.
Fruit Agua Fresca: A refreshing drink made from blended fruits, such as watermelon or mango, cleanses the palate between bites and keeps the meal vibrant.
Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with fresh cilantro and lime adds a zesty component that pairs beautifully with the bold flavors of quesabirria tacos.
Churros for Dessert: Light, crispy churros dusted with cinnamon and sugar provide a sweet, satisfying finish, perfect for capping off your taco night.

How to Store and Freeze Quesabirria Tacos

Fridge: Store leftover Quesabirria Tacos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, ensuring to add a splash of broth for moisture.

Freezer: Freeze assembled tacos individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen, adding extra time in the oven or skillet.

Birria Broth: Keep leftover birria broth in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze in ice cube trays for convenient portioning later.

Reheating Tips: To maintain the deliciousness, reheat the tacos on a skillet to restore their crispy texture while melting the cheese to gooey perfection.

Make Ahead Options

These Quesabirria Tacos are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to streamline your cooking on busy weeknights! You can prepare the beef birria up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its rich flavor. Additionally, the birria broth can be made ahead and refrigerated (or frozen for even longer storage). When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the beef and broth gently to avoid drying out the meat. For the tortillas, you can soak and dip them in the broth just before cooking for the freshest taste. This way, your tacos will be just as delicious and satisfying, making dinnertime a breeze!

Quesabirria Tacos Variations & Substitutions

Customize your tacos with these delightful twists and substitutions that will awaken your taste buds!

Chicken or Pork: Swap the beef for shredded chicken or pork for a lighter alternative that still delivers on flavor.
Vegetarian Version: Use mushrooms or jackfruit as a filling, marinated in the same spices for a hearty vegetarian taco experience.
Spicy Option: Add diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the birria for that extra kick. The heat will elevate your taco game!
Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy twist or even mozzarella for a milder taste without losing creaminess.
Tortilla Choice: Try flour tortillas for a different texture; they’re soft and can wrap around the fillings nicely if you prefer that over corn.
Topping Twists: For a unique touch, add a dollop of guacamole or a sprinkle of queso fresco on top. These garnishes bring creaminess and flavor to your tacos.
Bold Flavor Boost: Elevate your birria with additional spices like smoked paprika or a splash of your favorite hot sauce for an unexpected twist. You won’t be disappointed!
Herb Variations: Switch out cilantro for fresh parsley or even mint for a refreshing change in flavor. This personal touch brightens up your dish.

These variations will keep your quesabirria taco nights exciting and enticing! For more delicious ideas, check out my Birria Tacos Melt for inspiring twists!

Quesabirria Tacos Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for Quesabirria Tacos?
Absolutely! For the freshest taste, look for vibrant green cilantro and firm limes free of blemishes. When selecting onions, choose those that are heavy for their size and have a clean, smooth skin. If you find dark spots or any signs of sprouting on your onions, that’s a sign they’re past their prime. Fresh, thick corn tortillas are essential—check the packaging for a recent manufacturing date to guarantee softness.

How should I store leftover Quesabirria Tacos?
Very! To store leftovers, place Quesabirria Tacos in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to keep them moist and flavorful. This ensures the cheese stays gooey while the tortillas crisp up again—delicious!

Can I freeze Quesabirria Tacos, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze assembled tacos, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This prevents freezer burn and keeps them fresh for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to eat, simply preheat your oven to 375°F and cook the frozen tacos directly on a baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

What are some troubleshooting tips for making Quesabirria Tacos?
Need some advice? If your tortillas tear during assembly, it could be because they are too thin or cold. Always use fresh, thick corn tortillas and warm them slightly before dipping in the broth. If your birria beef isn’t as tender as you’d like, you may need to slow cook it longer, as tough cuts require more time to break down. Lastly, if the cheese isn’t melting well, ensure it is fresh and shredded—using block cheese and shredding yourself often yields better results.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind when making Quesabirria Tacos?
Very! For those with gluten sensitivities, this recipe is naturally gluten-free when using corn tortillas. However, if you’re serving guests, double-check that all pre-packaged ingredients, like broth and seasonings, are labeled gluten-free. Always inquire about any allergies, particularly with ingredients like cheese, as some people might have dairy sensitivities. Making Quesabirria Tacos is inclusive and fun, so you can cater to various preferences while enjoying this crowd-pleaser!