These Smoked Beef Birria Burgers are packed with flavor and loaded with ooey-gooey melted cheese. The smokiness gives them a delicious twist that’s hard to resist!
Every bite is like a tasty adventure! I love serving mine with some spicy salsa on the side for that extra kick. You’ll be longing for more after the first bite! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for juicy burgers. If you want a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken, but remember they may cook quicker. You can also use a blend of ground beef and chorizo for extra flavor!
Smoked Beef Birria Meat: This is essential for that hearty birria flavor. If you don’t have birria, use shredded beef or pulled pork. For a vegetarian option, jackfruit or mushrooms can be great substitutes—try using some of the flavorful spices!
Birria Consommé: The broth adds depth and moisture. If you don’t have it, beef broth works in a pinch, but consider adding some spices like cumin and chili powder to mimic the birria taste.
Cheese: I prefer using Oaxaca cheese for its melting quality, but mozzarella is an excellent alternative. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based cheese that melts well.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Juicy Burger?
Creating juicy beef patties can be simple! The key is to work gently with the meat. Here’s how:
- Don’t overwork the ground beef; mix in just enough seasoning before forming the patties.
- Indent the center of each patty with your thumb. This helps them cook evenly and prevents bulging.
- Cook them on medium heat so they stay juicy. Avoid pressing down on them while cooking, which squeezes out the juices!
With these tips and ingredients, your Smoked Beef Birria Burgers will be bursting with flavor and delight!
Smoked Beef Birria Burgers with Melty Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 1 lb smoked beef birria meat, shredded
- 1 cup birria consommé (broth from the birria cooking process)
- 1 cup shredded Oaxaca or mozzarella cheese
- 4 burger buns (brioche or soft sandwich buns)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped white onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter (for toasting buns)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: lime wedges and salsa for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time needed for this recipe is about 1 hour and 15 minutes. You’ll spend roughly 15 minutes preparing the patties and getting everything ready, and then 45 minutes to 1 hour smoking the burgers. It’s worth the wait for those delicious flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ground Beef Patties:
In a mixing bowl, season the ground beef with a pinch of salt and pepper. Gently mix and form into 4 equal-sized patties, each about 1/2 inch thick. Be careful not to overwork the meat to keep the patties tender and juicy.
2. Preheat the Smoker or Grill:
Set your smoker or grill to medium heat, around 250-275°F. If you don’t have a smoker, you can use a grill with wood chips, or even a grill pan on the stove works fine!
3. Smoke the Patties:
Once your grill is ready, carefully place the beef patties on the grates. Let them smoke for about 45 minutes to an hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. This slow cooking will give them that delightful smoky flavor!
4. Heat the Shredded Birria Meat:
While the patties are smoking, grab a small saucepan and heat the shredded smoked beef birria meat with the birria consommé over low heat. Stir occasionally until the meat is warmed through and juicy.
5. Add Cheese to Patties:
In the last 5 minutes of smoking, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on top of each patty. Close the lid to let the cheese melt beautifully over the burgers.
6. Toast the Buns:
In a skillet or on the grill, add vegetable oil or butter. Toast the insides of the burger buns until they are golden and crisp. This will add a wonderful texture!
7. Assemble the Burgers:
To assemble, place a cheesy smoked beef patty on the bottom bun. Top it with a hearty scoop of the warm shredded birria meat. Sprinkle some chopped onions and fresh cilantro on top, then finish it off with the top bun.
8. Serve:
Serve your delicious burgers right away with optional lime wedges and salsa on the side. You can even dip them into the leftover consommé for an extra flavor boost!
Enjoy the perfect blend of smoky goodness, rich beef flavor, and melty cheese in your burger. Every bite is a tasty delight that you won’t forget!
FAQ for Smoked Beef Birria Burgers with Melty Cheese
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as lean meats can dry out more quickly than beef. Consider adding some fat, like olive oil, to keep the patties juicy!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Birria Consommé?
No worries! If you don’t have birria consommé on hand, you can use beef broth instead. To get a similar flavor, add spices like cumin, chili powder, and a dash of vinegar to enhance the broth’s profile!
How Can I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain their juiciness, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Can I Prepare the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the patties ahead of time! Form them and store in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before cooking for even results!
