Taco Bell Birria

These Taco Bell-inspired birria tacos bring together tender, flavorful beef with melted cheese and crispy tortillas, all served with a delicious dipping broth. A perfect combination of comfort and spice for taco lovers. You'll love how easy it is to make this dish at home!

When it comes to Taco Bell’s spin on birria tacos, there’s something irresistibly comforting about the combination of tender, slow-cooked beef and melted cheese, all wrapped in a crispy taco shell. This dish isn’t just a taco – it’s a flavorful journey, a unique fusion of traditional Mexican flavors with Taco Bell’s signature bold taste. Imagine biting into the rich, juicy beef that’s been slow-cooked to perfection, with a grilled cheese coating that adds a layer of crunch and savoriness, paired with a zesty dipping sauce to amplify every bite. It’s a dish you’ll want to recreate at home, especially if you’re craving a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and absolutely delicious.

In this post, we’ll dive into exactly how you can create your own Taco Bell-inspired birria tacos at home, with some easy-to-find ingredients and a step-by-step guide that makes it achievable, even if you’re not a seasoned chef. I’ll cover the best ingredients to use for that authentic birria taste, walk you through cooking methods that will yield a mouthwatering taco, and share tips to get that cheesy, crispy finish that makes these tacos stand out. Plus, I’ve added some links to recipes like the Pork Con Tiki and Lombatello Steak for those who want to try more savory meat dishes that highlight bold flavors.

What is Birria, and Why Taco Bell’s Version Works

Birria originated in the Mexican state of Jalisco, traditionally prepared as a spicy, savory stew using goat meat. However, the dish has evolved and is often made with beef, especially in the U.S. Birria tacos are dipped into a flavorful consommé, which enhances their juiciness and adds layers of flavor with each dip. This tradition has inspired Taco Bell’s take on the birria taco, incorporating shredded beef, grilled cheese, and dipping sauces that make it uniquely Taco Bell. Their version is more of a fusion dish, leaning into bold, accessible flavors that balance tradition with modern fast-food appeal.

The Taco Bell birria style is perfect if you’re after a birria-inspired flavor without the lengthy stewing process. It’s not a traditional approach, but the crispy shell, melted cheese, and beef filling offer a satisfying bite that’s close to authentic birria, with a twist. If you want to dive deeper into different Mexican flavors, you might enjoy trying recipes like the Lefrois Sauce, which adds rich, complex flavors to any dish.

Ingredients for Taco Bell-Inspired Birria Tacos

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a role in capturing that birria-inspired flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious tacos:

Shredded Beef

Using shredded beef is key to achieving the tender, juicy filling that birria tacos are known for. Look for cuts like chuck roast or short ribs, which break down well with slow cooking. If you’re pressed for time, pressure cooking can also achieve tender results quickly. For a similar flavor twist, you can check out the Lamb Ragu D’Rose Mary, which uses slow-cooked meat and has a bold flavor profile.

Cheese Blend (Cheddar, Mozzarella, Pepper Jack)

To get that signature Taco Bell cheese pull, a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and pepper jack works wonders. This combination provides a good balance of creaminess, meltability, and spice that complements the beef without overpowering it.

Taco Shells (White Corn)

The taco shell should be white corn tortillas for a slightly crispy, earthy flavor that holds up well to the cheese and beef filling. When grilled with cheese, these tortillas turn crispy while still being able to hold all the fillings.

Dipping Sauce (Red Sauce and Nacho Cheese)

For dipping, Taco Bell offers a red sauce and a nacho cheese sauce. You can recreate the red sauce by blending tomatoes, spices, and a hint of vinegar for a tangy flavor. As for the cheese sauce, you could use store-bought nacho cheese, or make a quick homemade version with cheddar, milk, and a touch of spice.

For similar dipping sauces, check out recipes like the Easy Jhol-Like Sauce or the Blue Jam Garlic Aioli for unique flavor twists that could complement your tacos.

What You’ll Love About This Dish

This Taco Bell-inspired birria taco recipe is all about balancing flavors and textures. You get a crispy, cheesy exterior, a savory, juicy beef filling, and a choice of dipping sauces that bring it all together. Whether you’re making these for a party or just for a cozy night in, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, they’re customizable! You can easily switch up the cheese blend or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

This dish works well for gatherings or casual dinners because it’s easy to make in batches and has that finger-food appeal. Birria tacos have become incredibly popular in recent years, particularly for events like game nights or parties, where people can pick up a taco and dip it to their liking. The traditional birria taco has deep roots in Mexican culture, often enjoyed at celebrations or gatherings, and this Taco Bell-inspired version carries on that communal spirit with a twist.

How to Make Taco Bell-Inspired Birria Tacos

Making these tacos isn’t complicated, but following the right steps will ensure that your birria tacos come out perfectly each time. You’ll love the aroma that fills your kitchen as the beef simmers and the cheese grills to golden perfection.

Step 1: Prepare the Shredded Beef

1. Season the Beef – Generously season the beef with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cumin and chili powder for that authentic birria flavor. Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an extra depth.
2. Sear the Beef – In a hot skillet, sear the beef on all sides until browned. This step adds a layer of flavor that will carry through the whole dish.
3. Slow Cook – Transfer the seared beef to a slow cooker with onions, garlic, and a blend of chilies like guajillo and ancho for an extra depth of flavor. Let it cook on low for 6-8 hours until it’s tender enough to shred.

For a different take on shredded meat, you could also try the Captain D's Slaw Recipe to add a fresh side that pairs well with rich meats.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese-Crusted Taco Shells

1. Heat the Skillet – Using a nonstick skillet, sprinkle cheddar, mozzarella, and pepper jack cheese in a circle slightly larger than your tortilla.
2. Add the Tortilla – Place a white corn tortilla on top of the melting cheese. Press down lightly to ensure the cheese sticks to the tortilla.
3. Grill Until Crispy – Flip the tortilla when the cheese turns golden and crispy on the edges. Cook until the tortilla itself is slightly crispy.

For other crispy options, check out the Air Fryer Crunchy Bream Potatoes for a crispy side dish to pair with your tacos.

Step 3: Assemble the Tacos

1. Fill the Shells – Add shredded beef to the center of each cheesy tortilla.
2. Fold – Fold the tortilla in half, pressing down lightly so the cheese binds the taco together.

Customize Your Taco Bell Birria Tacos

One of the best things about making Taco Bell-inspired birria tacos is that you can tailor the recipe to suit your preferences. Whether it’s a bit more spice or adding a creative side, here are some ideas for switching things up:

1. Add Spiciness: If you love a spicy kick, add extra heat with a few slices of jalapeño or serrano peppers inside the taco. You can also use a spicier cheese like habanero cheddar for the crust.

2. Experiment with Cheese: The cheddar, mozzarella, and pepper jack blend creates that signature Taco Bell flavor, but feel free to play around with other cheeses. Smoked gouda, cotija, or even a spicy queso fresco can add interesting twists. A cheese with a creamy consistency, like gouda, will bring a buttery element, while cotija will add a salty contrast.

3. Try Different Dipping Sauces: Besides the red sauce and nacho cheese, you could experiment with sauces like Blue Jam Garlic Aioli for a garlicky edge, or even a spicy tomatillo salsa for freshness.

4. Pair with Sides: Round out your taco meal with sides that add texture and flavor contrast. The Tippins Cornbread Recipe makes a delicious, slightly sweet accompaniment. If you’re in the mood for a more traditional touch, a tangy slaw like the Captain D's Slaw Recipe pairs perfectly with the richness of the tacos.

Perfecting Your Birria Tacos: Pro Tips for Success

Getting these tacos right involves a few practical cooking tips to make sure the beef is juicy, the cheese is perfectly melted, and the shell is just crispy enough. Here’s what I’ve found to work best:

1. Use the Right Cut of Beef: Cuts like chuck roast or short ribs work wonders here because they’re marbled and tenderize beautifully with slow cooking. Leaner cuts can end up dry and stringy. Check out recipes like the Bertucci Sausage Soup for another example of using flavorful cuts for maximum taste.

2. Go Low and Slow: If time allows, slow-cooking the beef will give you a more tender, flavorful filling. Even though this dish doesn’t require the full birria stewing process, a few hours on low heat really makes a difference in texture and taste.

3. Don’t Rush the Cheese Grilling: To get the perfect cheese crust, let the cheese melt and start to brown slightly before adding the tortilla. This will give you a nice, crispy edge that holds up well to dipping without becoming soggy.

Storing and Reheating Taco Bell Birria Tacos

If you’re making these tacos ahead or end up with leftovers, follow these storage and reheating tips to keep them fresh:

1. Storing Leftovers: Place any leftover tacos in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Keep the dipping sauces in separate containers to avoid soggy tacos.

2. Reheating: To maintain that crispy shell and melted cheese, reheat the tacos in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, just until warm. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the shell chewy. For reheating side dishes, like Air Fryer Crunchy Cream Potatoes, the air fryer is also ideal to restore that fresh-out-of-the-oven texture.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas

Presentation can elevate your Taco Bell-inspired birria tacos, especially if you’re serving these at a gathering or party. Here’s how to plate them up beautifully:

1. Serve with Garnishes: Top the tacos with a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and some diced onions. This adds color and freshness that contrast with the savory cheese and beef.

2. Pair with a Refreshing Drink: A cold beverage like the Nunu Drink, a creamy, refreshing mix, complements the spice of these tacos perfectly.

3. Include Dipping Options on a Platter: For a crowd, set up a taco platter with multiple dipping sauces like salsa verde, sour cream, and the classic red sauce for guests to choose their favorite. Offer some side nibbles like Street Corn Popcorn Seasoning as a fun addition to keep the flavors interesting.

Must-Try Sauces for Taco Bell Birria Tacos

The right sauce can take these birria tacos to the next level. While Taco Bell usually sticks with a few classics, you’ve got room to explore and make these tacos your own. Here’s a quick guide to sauces that pair beautifully with the flavors of birria:

1. Classic Red Sauce: Taco Bell’s red sauce is a smooth, mildly spiced sauce that works wonders as a dip. You can make your own version by blending tomatoes with chili powder, onion powder, and a bit of vinegar for that subtle tang. This one is ideal for fans of the original Taco Bell flavor profile.

2. Garlic Aioli: For those who enjoy a rich, garlicky kick, try pairing your birria tacos with Blue Jam Garlic Aioli. The creamy aioli not only adds extra richness but brings out the savoriness of the beef and cheese.

3. Tomatillo Salsa Verde: This green salsa made from tomatillos, cilantro, and lime juice adds freshness and acidity, which balances the taco’s rich, cheesy flavors. A great option for those who enjoy a tangy and slightly spicy contrast.

4. Nacho Cheese Sauce: Taco Bell fans know this one well—it’s creamy, cheesy, and addicting! Making a homemade version with melted cheddar and a splash of milk can bring that signature “Taco Bell” flavor to your dish. Plus, nacho cheese always pairs well with beef and a crispy shell.

Side Dishes to Complement Your Birria Tacos

Now, if you’re setting up a full meal or just looking to round out your taco night, these side dishes will bring balance and variety. Here’s what I suggest:

1. Cornbread with a Twist: The slight sweetness and crumbly texture of Tippins Cornbread works as a comforting side to these savory tacos. Add a little jalapeño for heat, or try it with honey butter for an extra treat.

2. Tangy Slaw: A light, crunchy slaw, like the Captain D's Slaw, adds a refreshing crunch to balance out the tacos’ richness. With its mild, tangy dressing, this slaw is the perfect complement without overpowering the taco flavors.

3. Crispy Potatoes: If you’re craving something crispy on the side, check out these Air Fryer Crunchy Cream Potatoes. They add texture and heartiness, and air-frying means you’ll get that satisfying crunch without the added oil.

4. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): This classic side is a fantastic option to accompany birria tacos. The smoky, charred corn coated with mayo, chili powder, and cheese brings a bold flavor that contrasts the tender, juicy beef. Try sprinkling Street Corn Popcorn Seasoning for an authentic elote twist.

5. Refreshing Drink: To balance out the spice and richness, a chilled drink like the Nunu Drink is an excellent pairing. The smooth, creamy flavor helps cleanse the palate, leaving you ready for another bite.

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Taco Bell Birria

A delicious take on Taco Bell-inspired birria tacos that brings the authentic, slow-cooked flavors of beef birria with the convenience and fun of a classic Taco Bell taco! Perfect for those who love rich, savory flavors and crispy tacos with a dip-worthy broth.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks
• 1 lb beef short ribs
• 3 dried guajillo chiles, stemmed and seeded
• 2 dried ancho chiles, stemmed and seeded
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3 bay leaves
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp black peppercorns
• 4 cups beef broth
• Salt to taste
• 12 corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded Oaxaca or mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/2 cup chopped white onion
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the dried guajillo and ancho chiles. Simmer for 10 minutes, then drain.
2. Transfer the softened chiles, onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, and peppercorns to a blender. Blend with 1 cup of beef broth until smooth.
3. In the pot, add beef chunks, short ribs, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, and the chile mixture. Pour in the remaining beef broth and season with salt to taste.
4. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce to low heat. Simmer for 2-3 hours until the beef is tender and easily shreds.
5. Remove the beef from the pot and shred it, keeping the broth for dipping later.
6. In a skillet, dip each tortilla briefly in the reserved broth, then place in the skillet with shredded beef and cheese. Fold in half and cook until crispy.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and onion. Serve with lime wedges and a side of broth for dipping.

20 minutes prep time with 3 hours cook time.

Serves 6 and contains approximately 450 calories per serving.

Mexican / Main Dish, Comfort Food

Rated 4.8 by 1572 reviewers.

Recipe Tags: taco bell birria, birria tacos, beef birria, Mexican tacos, taco bell-inspired tacos, beef tacos

Published by: Show Recipe

These Taco Bell-inspired birria tacos aren’t just a meal—they’re an experience. Each bite offers a mix of juicy beef, melted cheese, and crispy shell that’s just irresistible, especially when dipped in your sauce of choice. Whether you’re enjoying these at a family dinner, game night, or a casual get-together, these tacos are sure to impress.

There’s something truly satisfying about recreating a fast-food favorite at home with a homemade touch. Plus, adding your own twists—like the perfect dipping sauce, a refreshing side, or an unexpected cheese blend—lets you customize these tacos to your taste.

From the slow-cooked birria beef to the golden, cheesy crust, you’ll find that making birria tacos at home not only rivals Taco Bell’s version but can even surpass it. You’ll see why this dish has captured the hearts of foodies everywhere. Enjoy your taco-making journey!