These Easy Smoked Beef Birria Burgers are a tasty twist for your next cookout! Made with juicy beef and a perfect blend of spices, they offer a rich flavor that’s delightfully satisfying.
You’ll love how fun and easy they are to make. I like to pile on the toppings—avocado, cheese, and maybe a little salsa. Can’t go wrong with a delicious burger, right? 😋
Cooking these on the smoker gives them a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. Plus, they come together quickly, making them a great choice for a casual meal or a gathering with friends.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using chuck with an 80/20 fat ratio for a juicy burger. If you want a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but the flavor will be different. Ground pork also adds great flavor if you’re open to mixing meats!
Birria Beef: If you don’t have pre-made birria, you can kick the flavor up by adding some taco seasoning and a splash of vinegar to regular shredded beef. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning!
Birria Consomé: This is key for adding moisture and flavor to your burger. If you don’t have any, beef broth can be a substitute, although it won’t offer the same rich taste. You can make a quick broth with spices and beef to mimic the flavors.
Buns: Brioche buns are wonderful for their softness and slight sweetness. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, whole grain or gluten-free buns work well too!
How Do I Smoke the Burgers Without Overcooking Them?
Smoking burgers takes some attention, but it’s pretty straightforward. The key is controlling the temperature and time:
- Stick to a steady smoker temperature of 225°F (107°C). This gives the burgers time to absorb the smoky flavor without drying out.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—remove them when they reach 140-145°F (60-63°C) for medium. They’ll continue to cook a little once off the heat.
- Keep an eye on your wood chips; too much smoke can overwhelm the flavor. Just the right amount will give that delicious, smoky note.
Following these tips can help you serve up perfectly smoked beef burgers every time!
Easy Smoked Beef Birria Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds ground beef (preferably chuck, 80/20 fat ratio)
- 1 cup birria beef, shredded (slow-cooked braised beef in adobo spices)
- 1/2 cup birria consomé (braising liquid from birria beef)
- 1 small white onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 4 brioche or soft burger buns
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: sliced avocado, melted cheese (queso Oaxaca or mozzarella), lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time and around 1 hour to smoke the burgers. In total, expect to spend about 1 hour and 20 minutes before you can enjoy these delicious birria burgers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Birria Beef and Consomé:
If you do not have pre-made birria, start by braising the beef. Combine dried chilies (like guajillo and ancho), garlic, spices (cumin, oregano), and tomato in a pot. Cook until the beef is tender, and don’t forget to reserve the flavorful braising liquid as your consomé. Once done, shred the cooked beef into fine pieces.
2. Form the Burger Patties:
In a large bowl, season the ground beef with salt and pepper to taste. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into thick burger patties. Make sure to press them down slightly to ensure they cook evenly.
3. Preheat the Smoker:
Prepare your smoker by heating it to 225°F (107°C). Choose your favorite wood for smoking—oak and mesquite are great options that add delicious flavor to the burgers.
4. Smoke the Burgers:
Carefully place the beef patties on the smoker grate. Smoke them for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until they reach an internal temperature of 140-145°F (60-63°C) for a nicely cooked medium burger. This low and slow method will ensure a juicy result!
5. Warm the Birria Beef:
While your burgers smoke, gently warm the shredded birria beef in a skillet or microwave. Mix it with a little consomé to keep it moist and flavorful as it heats up.
6. Toast Buns:
As the burgers finish smoking, lightly toast the brioche buns on the smoker or grill for about a minute or two, just until they’re golden and slightly crispy.
7. Assemble the Burgers:
Now it’s time to build your burgers! Start with the toasted bottom bun and place each smoked beef patty on top. Generously pile on the warm birria beef over each patty for that extra flavor kick.
8. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the finely chopped onion and cilantro on the birria beef for freshness. If you like, add slices of avocado or melted cheese on top to complete each burger. Yum!
9. Serve with Consomé:
Finally, serve your juicy birria burgers with a bowl of warm birria consomé for dipping. This will enhance the rich, smoky, and spicy flavors of your delicious creation!
Enjoy these mouthwatering, smoky birria burgers that effortlessly blend the flavors of traditional birria with the delight of a classic American burger! 😋
FAQ for Easy Smoked Beef Birria Burgers
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option. Just keep in mind that the flavor will differ slightly, so consider adding extra spices or seasoning to enhance the taste.
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the microwave or on a skillet over medium heat until heated through. If you have extra birria beef and consomé, heat them separately to keep everything juicy!
What’s the Best Wood to Use for Smoking These Burgers?
For a great smoky flavor, oak and mesquite are both excellent choices. They add a robust flavor profile that complements the beef beautifully. If you prefer something milder, fruit woods like apple or cherry can add a sweet and subtle touch.
Can I Prepare the Birria Beef in Advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the birria beef and consomé a day ahead. Just store them in the refrigerator and reheat gently before assembling your burgers. This will save you time and deepen the flavors even further!
