Name: Cheesy Beef Birria Quesadillas
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded birria beef; 8 flour tortillas; 2 cups shredded cheese (Oaxaca or Monterey Jack); 1 cup birria consommé; 1/2 cup chopped onions; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Lime wedges, for serving

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Cheesy Beef Birria Quesadillas are a delightful fusion of crispy tortillas, tender shredded beef, and melted cheese, all infused with the rich flavors of traditional birria consommé. This dish offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, making it a standout choice for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich Flavor Profile: The slow-cooked birria beef provides deep, savory notes that complement the creamy cheese.
Crispy Texture: Pan-frying the quesadillas gives them a satisfying crunch.
Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a main course, appetizer, or snack.
Authentic Experience: Dipping in birria consommé enhances the traditional taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shredded birria beef
Flour tortillas
Shredded cheese (such as Oaxaca or Monterey Jack)
Birria consommé
Chopped onions
Fresh cilantro
Lime wedges

Directions

Prepare the Birria Beef: Slow-cook beef with traditional spices until tender, then shred.
Assemble the Quesadillas: Place shredded beef and cheese onto one half of a tortilla.
Cook: Fold the tortilla over and pan-fry until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
Serve: Cut into wedges and serve with a side of warm birria consommé for dipping. Garnish with chopped onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for varied flavors.
Tortilla Choices: Use corn tortillas for a more traditional approach.
Spice Level: Add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy.

FAQs

What is birria?

Birria is a traditional Mexican dish originating from Jalisco, typically made with goat or beef, marinated in a blend of spices, and slow-cooked until tender.

Can I use store-bought birria?

Yes, if available, store-bought birria can be used to save time, though homemade offers a more authentic flavor.

What cheese works best for birria quesadillas?

Oaxaca cheese is traditional, but Monterey Jack or mozzarella are good substitutes due to their melting qualities.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the birria beef in advance and assemble the quesadillas when ready to serve for optimal freshness.

Is birria spicy?

Birria has a rich, savory flavor with mild heat. Adjust the spice level by modifying the types and amounts of chilies used.

Can I freeze leftover birria?

Yes, shredded birria beef can be frozen in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

What sides pair well with birria quesadillas?

Sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad complement the dish well.

How do I make birria consommé?

Birria consommé is the flavorful broth from cooking the birria meat. Strain and serve it warm as a dipping sauce.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

While traditional birria uses beef or goat, chicken can be used as a lighter alternative, though the flavor profile will differ.

Are there vegetarian alternatives?

For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with mushrooms or jackfruit and use vegetable broth for the consommé.

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef Birria Quesadillas offer a delectable combination of flavors and textures that are sure to impress. Whether you’re seeking a comforting meal or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe delivers authenticity and satisfaction in every bite.

Cheesy Beef Birria Quesadillas

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Cheesy Beef Birria Quesadillas are a crispy, melty delight filled with tender shredded birria beef and cheese, served with a flavorful consommé for dipping.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-Fry
Cuisine: Mexican
Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Units Scale

2 cups shredded birria beef
8 flour tortillas
2 cups shredded cheese (Oaxaca or Monterey Jack)
1 cup birria consommé
1/2 cup chopped onions
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges, for serving

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Instructions

Prepare the birria beef by slow-cooking it with traditional spices until tender, then shred it.
Lay out a tortilla and place a layer of shredded beef and cheese on one half.
Fold the tortilla over to form a half-moon shape.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and pan-fry the quesadillas until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
Remove from skillet, cut into wedges, and garnish with chopped onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
Serve with a side of warm birria consommé for dipping.