Taco Lovers Rejoice: How to Make the Best Quesabirria Tacos

Craving the rich and indulgent flavors of Quesabirria tacos without the calorie overload? Look no further! This Quesabirria Taco recipe is a healthier twist on the beloved Mexican dish, keeping the bold spices and cheesy goodness intact while lowering the fat and calorie content. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these tacos are sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

For the Birria:

• 1 lb lean beef chuck or stew meat (trimmed of visible fat)
• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 dried guajillo chilies (stems and seeds removed)
• 2 dried ancho chilies (stems and seeds removed)
• 1 chipotle chili in adobo (optional for heat)
• 1 medium onion (quartered)
• 4 garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tacos:

• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup reduced-fat Mexican cheese blend
• Cooking spray
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
• 1 lime (cut into wedges)
• Optional toppings: Diced onion, salsa, or avocado (adjust points accordingly).

Instructions

Prepare the Birria

1. Soak the Chilies: Place the guajillo and ancho chilies in a bowl and cover with hot water. Let them soak for 15-20 minutes until softened.
2. Blend the Sauce: In a blender, combine the soaked chilies, chipotle chili (if using), onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, oregano, cinnamon, and apple cider vinegar. Add 1 cup of beef broth and blend until smooth.
3. Cook the Meat: In a large pot or slow cooker, add the beef, chicken, blended chili sauce, and remaining broth. Season with salt and pepper.
   • Stovetop: Simmer over low heat for 2-3 hours, until the meat is tender and easily shredded.
   • Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
4. Shred the Meat: Remove the meat from the pot, shred it with two forks, and return it to the sauce to soak up the flavors.

Assemble the Tacos

1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and spray lightly with cooking spray.
2. Dip each tortilla lightly into the birria sauce to coat. Place the tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle a small amount of cheese on one side.
3. Add a portion of the shredded meat on top of the cheese and fold the tortilla in half, pressing gently. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.

Serve

1. Garnish the tacos with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
2. Serve with a small bowl of the birria sauce for dipping.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving: 1 taco)

• Calories: ~180
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 5g
• Fiber: 3g
• WW Points: ~6 (varies based on tortilla and cheese brands).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich in Flavor: The smoky, spicy birria sauce is packed with authentic Mexican flavors that make every bite unforgettable.
2. Lighter Option: Using lean meat and reduced-fat cheese keeps this dish on the healthier side without sacrificing taste.
3. Versatile Cooking Methods: Make this recipe on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or even in a pressure cooker for convenience.
4. Perfect for Sharing: Quesabirria tacos are a crowd-pleaser, making them ideal for gatherings or family dinners.

Tips for Success

• Choose Your Protein: Swap the beef and chicken for turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for an even lighter option.
• Adjust the Heat: For a milder sauce, reduce or omit the chipotle chili. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Meal Prep: The birria meat and sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
• Low-Point Tortillas: Use low-carb or WW-friendly tortillas to further reduce the points per taco.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Quesabirria Tacos with:

• A side salad: A simple mix of greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
• Mexican rice or cauliflower rice: For a satisfying, balanced meal.
• Grilled vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and onions complement the smoky flavors.

This Quesabirria Taco recipe delivers all the savory, cheesy goodness you love in a healthier package. Perfectly spiced, easy to prepare, and incredibly satisfying, these tacos are a must-try for your next taco night. Enjoy the bold flavors while staying on track with your wellness goals!