Oh, sweet friends, there’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a warm, cheesy sandwich to brighten any day, and this birria grilled cheese takes that classic comfort to a whole new, glorious level! Imagine tender, flavorful birria de res nestled between perfectly toasted sourdough, oozing with two kinds of cheese, all ready for a decadent dip in its rich consomé. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that truly sings to the soul.
I remember my grandmother, with flour dusting her apron, always saying that the best meals are those made with love and shared with joy. While her kitchen mostly smelled of warm spices from apple pies and cinnamon rolls, the spirit of bringing people together with delicious food is exactly what this recipe embodies. It’s a modern twist on a timeless classic, perfect for gathering around the table.
This recipe for birria grilled cheese is not only incredibly satisfying and packed with flavor, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner, but it’s also surprisingly straightforward to prepare, even for busy bakers like us. My top tip? Don’t skimp on the butter – it creates that irresistible golden crust!
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Crafting this delightful meal begins with a few simple yet essential components. We’re talking about succulent birria de res and its rich consomé, which are the heart and soul of this birria grilled cheese, along with sturdy sourdough and a luscious blend of Monterey Jack and Oaxaca cheeses for that perfect melty pull. These ingredients work in harmony to create a truly unforgettable experience. You’ll find the full list with precise measurements in the recipe card below.
How to Make birria grilled cheese
Making this birria grilled cheese is a wonderfully rewarding process that starts with layering that tender, shredded birria de res and a generous amount of cheese between thick slices of sourdough. You’ll then butter the bread generously and cook it gently in a pan until both sides are golden brown and the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly. The magic truly happens when you serve it alongside the warm, aromatic consomé for dipping, transforming a simple sandwich into an extraordinary meal.
Spicy Birria Grilled Cheese with Consomé Dip
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gently reheat the shredded birria de res in a small pan over medium-low heat until warm. In a separate small saucepan, heat the birria consomé until it’s simmering. Keep both warm while you prepare the sandwiches.
- Lay the four slices of sourdough bread on a clean work surface. Generously butter one side of each slice. This buttered side will be the outside of your grilled cheese sandwich, creating a golden, crispy crust.
- Flip two slices of bread so the unbuttered side is facing up. On one of these slices, layer half of the Monterey Jack cheese, followed by half of the Oaxaca cheese. This creates a good cheese base.
- Evenly spread half of the warm shredded birria over the cheese layer. If desired, sprinkle half of the finely diced red onion and chopped fresh cilantro over the birria for added flavor and texture.
- Cover the birria layer with the remaining half of the Monterey Jack and Oaxaca cheeses for the first sandwich. Place the second unbuttered bread slice on top, ensuring the buttered side is facing up. Repeat the assembly process for the second sandwich.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Maintaining a lower heat is crucial for ensuring the cheese melts completely without burning the bread.
- Carefully place the assembled birria grilled cheese sandwiches into the preheated skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the bread is a beautiful golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is completely melted and gooey. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
- Once cooked, remove the birria grilled cheese sandwiches from the skillet. Let them rest for a minute to allow the cheese to set slightly, then slice them in half diagonally. Serve immediately with the warm birria consomé for dipping, along with lime wedges and a sprinkle of extra fresh cilantro.
Notes
Pro Tips for Making This birria grilled cheese
Getting that perfect, crispy, and cheesy birria grilled cheese requires just a few special touches, gleaned from years in the kitchen.
- My Secret Trick: Always cook your grilled cheese over medium-low heat. This ensures the bread gets deeply golden and crispy without burning, giving the cheese ample time to melt into a gooey, irresistible perfection. Patience is key for that beautiful golden-brown crust!
- For the best flavor and texture, don’t overload your sandwich. While it’s tempting to pile on the birria and cheese, a balanced filling ensures even cooking and prevents everything from spilling out when you press it. I always aim for a generous but manageable amount.
- After cooking, let your grilled cheese rest for a minute or two before slicing. This allows the hot cheese to set just slightly, preventing it from oozing out excessively when you cut into it, ensuring every bite is perfectly structured.
- A little extra butter on the outside of the bread, right before placing it in the pan, makes all the difference for that rich, savory crunch. I find that using unsalted butter allows the birria’s robust flavors to truly shine.
Fun Variations for birria grilled cheese
One of the joys of cooking at home is making a recipe truly your own, and this birria grilled cheese is wonderfully adaptable! Here are a few creative twists I’ve explored in my own kitchen:
- Spice It Up: For those who love a bit more kick, try adding a thin layer of pickled jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the filling before grilling. My brother-in-law always asks for extra heat in his!
- Cheese Please: While Monterey Jack and Oaxaca are a fantastic duo, feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses. A touch of provolone or a sharp white cheddar can add different dimensions of flavor and a lovely gooey texture.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate some finely diced bell peppers or a layer of caramelized onions for added sweetness and texture. A friend loves when I add some sautéed mushrooms to hers for an earthy touch.
- Herbal Freshness: Beyond cilantro, consider adding a whisper of fresh oregano or a hint of green onion for an extra layer of aromatic complexity to your birria grilled cheese.
What to Serve With birria grilled cheese
This decadent birria grilled cheese is truly a meal in itself, but a few thoughtful accompaniments can elevate the experience even further. The star of the show, of course, is that incredible consomé dip – it’s non-negotiable!
- Classic Comfort: A simple side salad with a zesty vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwich. I love a crisp green salad to cut through the savory flavors.
- Hearty Pairing: For a more substantial meal, consider serving it with a warm cup of tomato soup or a side of crispy sweet potato fries. My family always enjoys a good soup alongside any grilled cheese.
- Cool & Creamy: A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cotija cheese on the side of your consomé can add a delightful creamy, tangy counterpoint.
- Freshness Factor: Always have those lime wedges and extra chopped cilantro on hand for a bright burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation. It’s a quick way to add a gourmet touch.
How to Store birria grilled cheese
If by some miraculous chance you have any leftover birria grilled cheese (it rarely happens in my house!), proper storage ensures you can enjoy its deliciousness again. I always recommend letting it cool completely before storing.
- Refrigerator Storage: Place cooled birria grilled cheese in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
- Reheating Magic: To bring it back to life, I prefer reheating it in a dry skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through and crispy again. You can also use a toaster oven for that perfect crisp. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the bread soggy.
- My Personal Tip: When reheating, sometimes I’ll add a tiny pat of butter to the skillet to help bring back that golden, buttery crust. It makes all the difference!
Nutritional Benefits
While this birria grilled cheese is certainly an indulgent treat, it also packs a punch with some wholesome elements. The birria de res offers a good source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues, while the cheeses provide calcium for strong bones. It’s a satisfying and flavorful meal that nourishes both body and soul, showing how even comforting dishes can incorporate simple, hearty ingredients.
FAQs
Faq 1
Can I make the birria ahead of time for this grilled cheese?
Absolutely! Preparing the birria de res and consomé in advance is highly recommended. It deepens the flavors and makes assembling this birria grilled cheese quick and effortless when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Faq 2
What’s the best bread to use for birria grilled cheese?
Thick-cut sourdough bread is my go-to! Its sturdy texture holds up beautifully to the rich filling, and its tangy flavor complements the birria perfectly. A good quality brioche also works for a richer taste.
Faq 3
Can I freeze leftover birria grilled cheese?
While you technically can, I don’t typically recommend freezing this birria grilled cheese. The texture of the bread and cheese can change upon thawing, making it less enjoyable than when freshly made.
Faq 4
How can I make the consomé dip extra rich?
For an even richer consomé, you can simmer it down slightly to concentrate the flavors, or whisk in a tablespoon of butter just before serving. A touch of extra beef broth can also deepen its taste.
Conclusion
Creating this birria grilled cheese is more than just making a meal; it’s an invitation to bring warmth, flavor, and a little bit of magic into your kitchen. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, combined with a little love and creativity, can transform into something truly extraordinary that brings smiles to every face at the table. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the joy of cooking, and savor every bite of this incredibly satisfying and memory-making dish. Happy baking, my friends!
