These Smoked Beef Birria Burgers are a fun twist on a classic favorite! Packed with juicy beef and bold flavors, they’re sure to impress your friends at the grill.
When I make these, I can’t help but smile thinking about all the cheesy goodness inside. Topping them with fresh cilantro and lime? Pure happiness! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I suggest using 80/20 for the best juiciness and flavor. If you’re looking for something leaner, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but they may dry out quicker, so keep an eye on the cooking time.
Birria Beef: If you’re short on time, store-bought birria beef works fine. You can also use pulled pork or shredded chicken, but they’ll change the dish’s flavor profile slightly.
Brioche Buns: These sweet, buttery buns are my favorite. For a healthier option, consider whole wheat buns or lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist.
Sauce: Traditional birria sauce adds depth. If you prefer something milder, try a simple beef broth or a mix of beef broth with a touch of chili powder for flavor.
How Do I Smoke the Burgers to Perfection?
Smoking burgers is all about patience and temperature. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Make sure your smoker is preheated to about 225°F (107°C) before adding the patties.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for about 160°F (71°C) for medium doneness.
- Keep the lid closed as much as possible to maintain heat. If possible, use wood chips like hickory or mesquite for a deeper smoky flavor.
Remember, the longer they smoke, the more flavor they’ll get! But keep an eye on the time to avoid drying them out.
How to Make Smoked Beef Birria Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
- 1 cup birria beef, shredded (cooked in birria sauce)
- 4 brioche burger buns
- 1/2 cup chopped white onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Birria sauce (consommé) for dipping, about 1 cup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 20-30 minutes of hands-on time plus about 1.5 to 2 hours for smoking the burgers. Don’t forget to factor in some time to prepare the birria beef in advance if you’re making it yourself!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Birria Beef:
If you’re making beef birria from scratch, start by cooking it ahead of time. Use traditional spices and chilies, simmering the beef until it’s tender and easy to shred. Alternatively, you can buy pre-made birria beef to save time.
2. Form Burger Patties:
In a large bowl, season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Mix gently, being careful not to overwork the meat. Shape the seasoned beef into 4 equal-sized burger patties, making a slight indentation in the middle to prevent puffing during cooking.
3. Smoke the Burgers:
Set your smoker to preheat at around 225°F (107°C). Once heated, place the patties inside and smoke until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), which usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Enjoy the aroma of smokiness as they cook!
4. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are smoking, heat a skillet or grill over medium heat and toast the brioche buns until they’re golden and slightly crispy. This adds a nice texture that holds up against the juicy burgers!
5. Assemble the Burgers:
Once the burgers are done smoking, take each patty and place it on the bottom half of a toasted bun. Pile on the shredded birria beef generously on top of the patty.
6. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle chopped white onion and fresh cilantro over the meat. These toppings add a burst of flavor and freshness that perfectly complement the rich birria.
7. Serve:
Cap it all off by placing the top half of the bun over the toppings. Serve these delicious burgers with a side of warm birria consommé for dipping. Don’t forget to include lime wedges for a zesty squeeze right before eating!
These Smoked Beef Birria Burgers are sure to impress with their rich flavors and satisfying textures, perfect for any gathering or a special treat at home! Enjoy every smoky, savory bite!
FAQ About Smoked Beef Birria Burgers
Can I Use Leftover Birria Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover birria beef works perfectly in this recipe. Simply shred it and use it as a topping for your smoked hamburgers. It’s a great way to enjoy any extra birria you may have!
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
To store leftover burgers, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or oven, and enjoy!
What Can I Substitute for Birria Sauce?
If you don’t have birria sauce on hand, you can use a mix of beef broth with a splash of chili powder or taco seasoning for a flavorful dip. Alternatively, classic gravy or even barbecue sauce can provide a unique twist!
How Can I Adjust the Spiciness of the Burgers?
If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of chili used in your birria beef, or skip any spicy toppings. On the other hand, add fresh jalapeños or spicy sauce for extra heat if you want to turn up the spice level!
