These Easy Smoked Beef Birria Burgers are a tasty twist on a classic! Packed with juicy beef and rich flavors, they are smoky, savory, and perfect for any BBQ.
You won’t believe how good they smell while cooking—your neighbors might come knocking! I love serving them with fresh toppings and dipping sauce for extra fun.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for burgers. The fat content ensures they stay juicy and flavorful. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 85/15 will work, but they might be drier. You could even use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative.
Birria-Style Beef: Using leftover birria is perfect for this recipe. It brings all those rich flavors to your burger. Can’t make birria? Try using shredded beef or pulled pork instead for a different, but still tasty, twist.
Brioche Buns: Brioche adds a touch of sweetness and soft texture that pairs well with the savory burger. If you can’t find brioche buns, any soft hamburger bun will suffice. You can even use whole grain or gluten-free buns if needed!
How Do I Get the Burgers Just Right on the Smoker?
Smoking your burgers is where the magic happens! It infuses them with a wonderful smoky flavor. Follow these steps for juicy, perfectly smoked burgers:
- Set your smoker to 225°F (107°C) and let it preheat. Aim for a consistent temperature for optimal smoking.
- Season your ground beef with birria seasoning, which adds depth and flavor—this is a crucial step!
- Form thick patties, as they will shrink a bit while cooking. Make a slight indentation in the center to help them cook evenly.
- Place the patties in the smoker directly on the grate. Smoke for 1.5 to 2 hours, checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let your smoked burgers rest a few minutes before assembling the sandwiches. This helps retain their juices!
With these tips, you’ll master the art of smoking burgers and impress everyone at your next cookout!
Easy Smoked Beef Birria Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Burgers:
- 2 lbs ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
- 1 cup birria-style beef, shredded (prepared or leftover birria)
- 2 tbsp birria seasoning or adobo sauce (from birria cooking)
- 4 brioche or hamburger buns
- 1/2 cup diced white onion
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Butter or oil for toasting buns
Optional Toppings:
- Sliced jalapeños
- Lime wedges for serving
- Birria consommé (broth) for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 1.5 to 2 hours for smoking the burgers. Just set up the smoker, season the meat, and let it cook while you prepare your buns and toppings. Super simple!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Smoker:
Start by preheating your smoker to 225°F (107°C). This low and slow cooking method is what gives your burgers that fantastic smoky flavor.
2. Season Your Ground Beef:
In a large mixing bowl, season the ground beef with birria seasoning or adobo sauce. This will give the meat a delicious flavor. Carefully mix it in, then form the beef into 4 thick patties—don’t forget to make a slight indentation in the center to help them cook evenly!
3. Smoke the Patties:
Gently place the patties on the smoker grate. Close the lid and let them smoke for about 1.5 to 2 hours. You’ll want the internal temperature of the beef to reach 160°F (71°C) for medium-well. They should have a nice, rich smoked flavor!
4. Toast The Buns:
While the burgers are smoking, you can toast the brioche buns. Heat some butter or oil in a skillet or on a grill over medium heat, and toast the buns until they’re golden brown and slightly crispy—delicious!
5. Warm The Shredded Birria:
In a small pot, warm up the shredded birria beef. This will be the star topping for your burgers, making them extra special and indulgent.
6. Assemble The Burgers:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Start with a toasted bun, place a smoked beef patty on top, and add a generous scoop of warm shredded birria beef.
7. Add Fresh Toppings:
Sprinkle diced white onions and chopped cilantro on top for crunch and flavor. If you love a little heat, add some sliced jalapeños or a squeeze of lime juice.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Don’t forget the dipping sauce! Serve each burger with a small bowl of birria consommé on the side for dipping. It enhances the flavors and gives you that authentic birria experience. Enjoy your smoky, flavorful Easy Smoked Beef Birria Burgers!
FAQ for Easy Smoked Beef Birria Burgers
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef is recommended for its juiciness, you can use ground turkey or pork for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the meat’s fat content.
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep them moist. Enjoy them in a different way by slicing them up on a salad or in tacos!
Can I Prepare the Burgers in Advance?
Yes! You can form the patties and season them a day ahead of time. Just keep them wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to smoke them. This actually allows the flavors to meld even more!
What If I Don’t Have a Smoker?
If you don’t have a smoker, you can also cook these burgers on a grill. Use indirect heat and add wood chips wrapped in foil nearby for that smoky flavor. Alternatively, you can cook them in a skillet on the stovetop, just remember to add a bit of liquid smoke or smoked paprika to mimic that smoked taste!
