Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsBorealisBirria Grilled Cheese Recipe

Birria Grilled Cheese Recipe

Inspired by Borealis
Time3h
Serves4

Slow-braised beef with cheddar, onions, & cilantro, grilled between buttery bread.

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Ingredients

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Beef Preparation

Grilled Cheese Assembly

Method

Beef Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the Chiles

    Remove the stems and seeds from the guajillo and ancho chiles. Soak them in hot water for about 15 minutes until softened.

  2. 2

    Sear the Beef

    In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef chuck roast with salt and black pepper, then sear on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.

  3. 3

    Cook the Aromatics

    In the same pot, add chopped onion and whole garlic cloves. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

  4. 4

    Blend the Sauce

    In a blender, combine the softened chiles, cumin, oregano, and about 1 cup of the beef broth. Blend until smooth.

  5. 5

    Slow Cook the Beef

    Return the seared beef to the pot, add the blended sauce, remaining beef broth, bay leaves, and additional salt if needed. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily shredded.

  6. 6

    Shred the Beef

    Once cooked, remove the beef from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the pot and let it soak in the juices.

Grilled Cheese Assembly

  1. 7

    Prepare the Bread

    Butter one side of each slice of sourdough bread.

  2. 8

    Assemble the Sandwich

    On the unbuttered side of one slice of bread, layer shredded birria beef, cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, and pickled jalapeños. Top with another slice of bread, buttered side up.

  3. 9

    Grill the Sandwich

    Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook until golden brown on one side, about 4-5 minutes. Flip and cook the other side until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.

  4. 10

    Serve

    Remove from the skillet, slice in half, and serve with a side of the birria broth for dipping.

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