Deliciously Cheesy and Saucy Birria Nachos

If you love bold, rich flavors and indulgent cheesy goodness, then these Deliciously Cheesy and Saucy Birria Nachos are going to be your new favorite snack. Combining the slow-cooked, tender beef of traditional birria with layers of crispy tortilla chips, melty cheese, and a drizzle of flavorful consommé, this dish is perfect for game nights, parties, or simply treating yourself.

What Makes Birria Nachos So Special?

Birria is a traditional Mexican dish that consists of slow-braised beef simmered in a deeply flavorful blend of chili peppers, tomatoes, garlic, onions, and spices. This rich and aromatic meat is typically used for tacos but takes nachos to the next level. Topped with plenty of cheese, fresh garnishes, and a drizzle of birria consommé, every bite is bursting with flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Birria:

• 2 lbs beef chuck or short ribs
• 4 dried guajillo chilies, stems and seeds removed
• 2 dried ancho chilies, stems and seeds removed
• 2 chipotle chilies in adobo sauce
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Nachos:

• 1 large bag of tortilla chips
• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Oaxaca cheese)
• ½ cup pickled jalapeños
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• ½ cup diced red onion
• ½ cup fresh diced tomatoes
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Sour cream, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Birria

1. Toast the Chilies: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the guajillo and ancho chilies for about 30 seconds per side until fragrant.
2. Blend the Sauce: In a blender, combine toasted chilies, chipotle chilies, garlic, tomatoes, vinegar, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and cinnamon with 1 cup of beef broth. Blend until smooth.
3. Sear the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pot or Dutch oven. Sear the beef chunks on all sides until browned.
4. Simmer: Pour the blended chili mixture over the beef. Add the remaining 3 cups of beef broth and bay leaves. Cover and simmer for 3 hours, until the beef is tender and shreds easily.
5. Shred the Beef: Remove the beef from the pot, shred it with forks, and return it to the broth to soak up all the flavors.

Step 2: Assemble the Nachos

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Layer the Chips and Cheese: Spread a layer of tortilla chips on a baking sheet. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese, then add the shredded birria beef and top with the remaining cheese.
3. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.

Step 3: Add the Toppings

1. Drizzle with Consommé: Spoon a bit of the birria consommé over the nachos for extra juiciness.
2. Top with Fresh Ingredients: Sprinkle with pickled jalapeños, chopped red onions, diced tomatoes, fresh cilantro, and avocado slices.
3. Serve and Enjoy: Drizzle with sour cream, serve with lime wedges, and dig in while hot!

Pro Tips for the Best Birria Nachos

• Use High-Quality Beef: Chuck roast or short ribs work best for that tender, juicy texture.
• Make the Birria Ahead: Birria tastes even better the next day, so prep it in advance for quicker nachos.
• Layer Properly: Distribute the cheese and meat evenly so every bite is loaded with flavor.
• Customize the Heat: Add extra chipotle chilies for a spicier kick.

Variations & Serving Suggestions

• Birria Queso Nachos: Add a creamy queso dip instead of shredded cheese.
• Taco-Style Nachos: Serve over soft tortillas for a deconstructed taco vibe.
• Loaded Birria Fries: Swap the tortilla chips for crispy French fries or sweet potato fries.

Storing & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftover birria in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Birria freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat in a pot over low heat before using.
• Reheat Nachos: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to keep the chips crispy.

Final Thoughts

These Deliciously Cheesy and Saucy Birria Nachos bring together the rich, deep flavors of traditional birria with melty cheese and crispy chips, making for the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching a game, or just treating yourself, these nachos are guaranteed to impress.

Try them today and enjoy every cheesy, saucy, and savory bite!