These Smoked Beef Birria Burgers are a fun twist on traditional burgers! Juicy beef is seasoned with bold spices and then smoked for extra flavor before being grilled to perfection.
Trust me, the smoky taste makes every bite irresistible! I love to top mine with cheese and a bit of guacamole. Seriously, it’s a burger celebration on a bun! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 for a juicy burger. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try 90/10, but your burger might be less juicy. If you prefer turkey or chicken, you can substitute that, too!
Chili Powders: Ancho and guajillo give a rich flavor. If they’re hard to find, you can use regular chili powder, but it will change the taste a bit. You could also try chipotle powder for a smokier flavor.
Cheese: Oaxaca cheese adds a great melt. If unavailable, mozzarella is a good choice. You could also use pepper jack for a little kick or cheddar for a classic taste.
Optional Toppings: Pickled red onions and guacamole are wonderful! You can substitute with regular onions or avocado slices if needed. Sliced tomatoes and lettuce also work well to add freshness.
How Do I Ensure My Burgers Are Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy and flavorful burgers lies primarily in the seasoning and cooking method. Mix your ground beef gently to avoid overworking it, which can lead to dense patties. Creating a slight indentation in the center helps the burger cook evenly without puffing up.
- Make sure to smoke your patties at a low temperature (225°F) for that rich flavor, about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- After smoking, cooking quickly on a hot grill or skillet will develop a nice crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
- Don’t skip on the cheese topping! Melting it on the patty adds extra flavor and moisture.
Smoked Beef Birria Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 2 pounds ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1 tablespoon ancho chili powder
- 1 tablespoon guajillo chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 4 slices Oaxaca cheese or mozzarella cheese
- 4 burger buns
For Toppings:
- Optional: pickled red onions
- Optional: sliced jalapeños
- Optional: guacamole
- Optional: fresh cilantro
- Optional: lime wedges
For Toasting Buns:
- Butter for toasting buns
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prep, plus around 1.5 to 2 hours for smoking. After smoking, it only takes a few minutes to finish cooking on the grill or skillet. So, overall, set aside about 2.5 hours including smoking time, but it’s worth every minute for that delicious flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Beef & Seasonings:
In a large bowl, mix the ground beef with the ancho chili powder, guajillo chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, ground cinnamon, black pepper, salt, minced garlic, beef broth, and apple cider vinegar. Stir gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps the burgers tender.
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly and avoid puffing up. This little trick ensures a flat burger that sits nicely on the bun!
3. Smoke Your Patties:
Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Once hot, place the patties on the smoker grates. Let them smoke for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until they reach an internal temperature of 155-160°F (68-71°C). This step adds that amazing smoky flavor!
4. Grill and Melt the Cheese:
After smoking, heat a grill or a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place the smoked patties on the hot surface and top each with a slice of cheese. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and the patties get a nice crispy exterior.
5. Toast the Buns:
While the patties are finishing up, butter the burger buns lightly. Toast them on a griddle or in a skillet until they are golden brown. This gives a satisfying crunch to your burger!
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Start by placing a cheese-melted patty on the bottom half of each bun. Add your favorite toppings: pickled red onions for tang, sliced jalapeños for heat, guacamole for creaminess, and fresh cilantro for color and flavor. Don’t forget a squeeze of lime juice on top!
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Close the burger with the top half of the bun and serve immediately. Pair them with some fries or a fresh salad, and enjoy your smoky, spicy, and utterly delicious Smoked Beef Birria Burgers!
FAQ for Smoked Beef Birria Burgers
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional and offers great flavor, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even pork if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat’s fat content.
What Abilities Does Smoking Give to the Burgers?
Smoking the burgers infuses them with a rich, smoky flavor that grilling alone can’t achieve. It also helps to keep the patties moist during the cooking process. For the best results, be sure your smoker is preheated properly and maintain a steady temperature!
How Can I Store Leftover Burgers?
Let the burgers cool to room temperature and then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the grill or in the microwave. If you want to freeze them, wrap each burger in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Can I Make the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the burger patties and store them in the fridge for up to a day before smoking. Just make sure to cover them tightly to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can form the patties and freeze them for longer storage—just thaw in the fridge before smoking.
