Ah, birria grilled cheese! The mere thought conjures up images of ooey-gooey cheese mingling with rich, savory birria. When I first tried birria grilled cheese, it turned my view of comfort food upside down. Gone are the days of a simple grilled cheese on a dreary day.
This dish is a culinary adventure wrapped in toasty bread, and it deserves to be the star of your meal.
As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, my mission is simple: to show you how to make delicious food that sustains you without hogging all your time.
And trust me, this birria grilled cheese is packed with flavor, creativity, and a sense of homemade comfort that cannot be beaten.
Why This Recipe Works
Let’s not beat around the bush. There’s a reason this recipe has become a favorite. It has everything you crave. Here’s a closer look at why:
- Flavor Explosion: The deep, rich taste of the birria steals the show. The beef is cooked slowly with spices, creating layers of flavor that are nothing short of intoxicating. Each bite brings a delightful warmth that you can’t resist.
- Cheese Overload: The use of Monterey Jack cheese adds a creamy and melty texture. It’s the cheese dreams are made of, perfectly complementing the spiced meat. You’ll find yourself melting into bliss with each mouthful.
- Unique Twist: This isn’t your average grilled cheese. By marrying the classic grilled cheese with birria, you’re elevating the dish. It’s inventive yet comforting—definitely a conversation starter at your next dinner party.
- Customization Galore: You have the freedom to tweak this recipe based on personal preference. Want it spicier? Switch up the peppers. Prefer a softer bread? Go for brioche. The sky’s the limit.
How Does It Taste?
Ever had the euphoria of biting into something that resonates deep within? That’s what this birria grilled cheese delivers.
The first flavors to dance on your tongue are the earthy spices and richness from the meat, followed by the mouthwatering, stretchy cheese that comforts you immediately.
The toasty exterior gives that satisfying crunch, while each bite fills you with warmth. You may find yourself hovering over the plate, unwilling to share—which is completely understandable.
What Sets This Recipe Apart from Other Birria Grilled Cheese Variations?
At this point, there are various takes on birria grilled cheese, but what makes this particular recipe shine? It’s all in how the birria is prepared. The layers of spices used in the braising process create a deeply developed flavor that most variations miss.
Plus, achieving the right balance of cheese and beef, without overwhelming one or the other, is an art form.
While some recipes call for more runny cheese or a basic white bread, this version strikes the perfect balance.
You get a solid crunch from the perfectly toasted bread while enjoying the rich flavors of the beef and spices. Top with fresh cilantro and onions for a garnish that not only adds flavor but also brings a pop of freshness.
The Ingredients
This dish is straightforward yet requires a bit of culinary love. Below is your essential shopping list:
For the Birria:
- 3 Ancho Dried Chiles, stemmed and seeds removed
- 3 Guajillo Dried Chiles, stemmed and seeds removed
- ¼ cup Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce
- ½ White Onion, thinly sliced
- 8-10 Fresh Garlic Cloves
- 2 cups Hot Water
- 5-6 Bone-In Beef Short Ribs
- 1 ½ tbsp Coarse Kosher Salt
- 1 ½ tbsp Ground Black Pepper
- 1 ½ tbsp Onion Powder
- Canola or Vegetable Oil for searing
For Braising + Seasonings:
- 2-3 cups Rich Beef Broth
- 1 ½ tbsp Mexican Oregano
- 2 tbsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- 1 tbsp Sea Salt
- 2 Cinnamon Sticks
- 2 Bay Leaves
- 1 tbsp Brown Sugar
For the Grilled Cheese:
- 3 cups Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese
- ½ cup Finely Chopped Red Onion
- ½ cup Fresh Cilantro, roughly chopped
- Thick Sliced Bread, lightly toasted
- 1 tbsp Butter
Instructions
This is where the magic happens! Follow these steps closely for a dish that will astound your guests, or yourself—let’s be real.
Step 1: Prepare the Birria
Start by soaking the dried chiles. Place them in a bowl of hot water for about 20 minutes until they soften. Once they’re pliable, toss them into a blender along with the chipotle peppers, garlic, onion, and hot water. Blend until you achieve a smooth consistency.
Step 2: Sear the Meat
Next, heat your oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season the beef short ribs with salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Sear the meat on all sides until browned. This step is vital; it locks in the flavors.
Step 3: Braise with Flavors
Add the blended chili mixture to the pot, followed by the rich beef broth, oregano, additional black pepper, sea salt, cinnamon sticks, bay leaves, and brown sugar.
Stir everything together and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and cover, letting the beef braise for about 3-4 hours until it’s tender and falling off the bone.
Step 4: Assemble the Grilled Cheese
Once your birria is cooked to perfection, shred the meat. Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly butter one side of your bread slices. On the unbuttered side, layer shredded beef, cheese, onions, and cilantro. Top with another slice of bread, buttered side up.
Step 5: Grill Away
Place your sandwich in the skillet, flipping after a few minutes once the bread is golden brown. Continue grilling until the cheese is melted and the sandwich is crispy all over.
Step 6: Serve
Slice it in half, let the cheesy goodness ooze out, and enjoy every bite. Dip into the leftover birria broth for that extra flavor hit.
Notes
Here are a few tips to ensure your birria grilled cheese turns out sensational:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spices and quality beef for the best flavor. Cheap ingredients will give you less than stellar results.
- Don’t Rush the Braising: Allowing the beef to braise for the recommended time is key to developing deep flavors.
- Experiment with Cheese: While Monterey Jack is fantastic, don’t shy away from trying other melting cheeses like Oaxaca or even sharp cheddar for a unique twist.
- Save Your Broth: Use any remaining birria broth as a dipping sauce. It elevates the whole eating experience.
- Toast Your Bread Right: Ensure the bread is toasted to a perfect crunch before grilling to prevent sogginess.
How Do You Store This Birria Grilled Cheese?
If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely), store the sandwich in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The bread may lose some crispiness, but reheating it in a skillet can help recapture some of that glory.
Sides for Birria Grilled Cheese
Enhance your meal experience by pairing this grilled cheese with complementary sides. Here are my top three suggestions:
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote): This dish is a fantastic match. The sweetness of the corn and the creamy dressing with a kick of lime and chili powder provides a delightful contrast to the savory sandwich.
- Cabbage Slaw: A fresh slaw with lime dressing is ideal. The crunch and tang of the cabbage help cleanse the palate while adding a refreshing element to each bite.
- Pinto Bean Soup: A warm bowl of bean soup is comforting and pairs beautifully with the grilled cheese. Its creamy, hearty nature plays well against the rich birria flavors.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients?
Sometimes, grocery shopping can be a challenge. Fear not! Here are some alternatives you can use:
- Dried Chiles: If you can’t find ancho or guajillo chiles, feel free to substitute with other dried chilies like pasilla or even chipotle (noted for being spicier).
- Chuck Roast: If short ribs aren’t available, beef chuck roast will work nicely. Just remember, it may take a little longer to become tender.
- Vegetarian Option: Consider substituting the beef with jackfruit or mushrooms for a vegetarian take. They both absorb flavors incredibly well, making them an excellent stand-in.
- Different Cheeses: Monterey Jack is delectable, but if you find yourself lacking, mozzarella or pepper jack will still deliver the gooey cheese factor you desire.
Conclusion
Birria grilled cheese is not just a sandwich; it’s an experience. With its rich flavors and melty cheese, this dish can elevate any meal, making it unforgettable.
Using quality ingredients and making it your own transforms simple moments into delicious memories. Whether you’re serving family or friends, birria grilled cheese is sure to impress. So grab that skillet and get cooking—deliciousness is just a step away!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
- Capital Grille Lobster Mac And Cheese Copycat Recipe
- How to Make Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- Best Grilled Cheese Panini Sandwich Recipe
Birria Grilled Cheese Recipe – Simple Easy Meals
Before diving into the magic of birria grilled cheese, let’s consider what might complement this delectable dish. It’s all about balance, right?
First off, a refreshing avocado salad can provide a cool contrast to the rich flavors. The creaminess of the avocado pairs excellently with the spicy elements in the grilled cheese.
Next, think about a side of pickled vegetables. They add a crunch and a tang that cuts through the richness, refreshing your palate between bites.Lastly, a hearty salsa fresca is a must. Fresh tomatoes, cilantro, lime, and onions make a vibrant dip, enhancing the flavor of the sandwich even more. Now that we’ve covered our bases, let’s dig into this amazing dish!
Ingredients
Chiles:
Beef:
Braising + Seasonings:
Grilled Cheese:
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Birria
-
Start by soaking the dried chiles. Place them in a bowl of hot water for about 20 minutes until they soften. Once they’re pliable, toss them into a blender along with the chipotle peppers, garlic, onion, and hot water. Blend until you achieve a smooth consistency.
Step 2: Sear the Meat
-
Next, heat your oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season the beef short ribs with salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Sear the meat on all sides until browned. This step is vital; it locks in the flavors.
Step 3: Braise with Flavors
-
Add the blended chili mixture to the pot, followed by the rich beef broth, oregano, additional black pepper, sea salt, cinnamon sticks, bay leaves, and brown sugar.
Stir everything together and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and cover, letting the beef braise for about 3-4 hours until it's tender and falling off the bone.
Step 4: Assemble the Grilled Cheese
-
Once your birria is cooked to perfection, shred the meat. Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly butter one side of your bread slices. On the unbuttered side, layer shredded beef, cheese, onions, and cilantro. Top with another slice of bread, buttered side up.
Step 5: Grill Away
-
Place your sandwich in the skillet, flipping after a few minutes once the bread is golden brown. Continue grilling until the cheese is melted and the sandwich is crispy all over.
Step 6: Serve
-
Slice it in half, let the cheesy goodness ooze out, and enjoy every bite. Dip into the leftover birria broth for that extra flavor hit.
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 417kcal
- Calories from Fat 191kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 21.6g34%
- Saturated Fat 12.7g64%
- Cholesterol 48mg16%
- Sodium 5084mg212%
- Total Carbohydrate 42g15%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 8g
- Protein 15g30%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spices and quality beef for the best flavor. Cheap ingredients will give you less than stellar results.
- Don’t Rush the Braising: Allowing the beef to braise for the recommended time is key to developing deep flavors.
- Experiment with Cheese: While Monterey Jack is fantastic, don’t shy away from trying other melting cheeses like Oaxaca or even sharp cheddar for a unique twist.
- Save Your Broth: Use any remaining birria broth as a dipping sauce. It elevates the whole eating experience.
- Toast Your Bread Right: Ensure the bread is toasted to a perfect crunch before grilling to prevent sogginess.
