Birria pizza is the latest viral food sensation that combines the rich, slow-cooked flavors of traditional Mexican birria with the crispy, cheesy goodness of pizza. This unique fusion dish takes the deep, smoky flavors of birria beef and layers it onto a cheesy, crunchy pizza crust, often served with a side of consommé for dipping—just like birria tacos.

Originating from the streets of Mexico and gaining global popularity, birria pizza is the perfect example of how food trends evolve through cultural fusion. But what makes this pizza so irresistible? The answer lies in its bold, savory flavors, the crunchy yet gooey texture, and the smoky dipping sauce that enhances every bite.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about birria pizza—its origins, how it’s made, the best ingredients, and even where you can find the best spots to try it. Plus, we’ll answer common FAQs and provide a step-by-step homemade birria pizza recipe so you can try it yourself!

What is Birria Pizza?

Birria pizza is a Mexican-Italian fusion dish that features shredded, slow-cooked beef birria layered on top of a pizza crust, topped with melted cheese, and often dipped in consommé—a flavorful broth made from the juices of the slow-cooked birria.

It’s a spin on the classic birria tacos, which became wildly popular in recent years, thanks to social media. Instead of a taco shell, the rich and spicy birria meat is spread over a crispy pizza crust, making it a heartier, shareable dish perfect for food lovers.

The Origins of Birria and Its Fusion into Pizza

To understand birria pizza, we must first look at birria, a dish that originates from the state of Jalisco, Mexico. Traditionally, birria is made with goat meat, though today it is commonly prepared with beef or lamb, slow-cooked in a rich blend of chiles, spices, and broth.

Birria tacos gained massive popularity in the U.S., especially in cities like Los Angeles, where Mexican cuisine thrives. Soon after, creative chefs and food lovers experimented with using birria on pizza, leading to the viral sensation of birria pizza.

The combination of crispy, cheesy pizza and juicy, spicy birria meat proved to be a match made in heaven, and the dish quickly spread across restaurants, food trucks, and home kitchens.

What is Birria? Understanding Its Roots

Birria is the heart and soul of birria pizza, and understanding its origins helps us appreciate why this fusion dish is so flavorful. Known for its rich, spicy, and deeply savory taste, birria has been a staple of Mexican cuisine for centuries.

The Traditional Ingredients of Birria

Birria is a slow-cooked stew made with tender meat, a blend of spices, and a deep, flavorful broth called consommé. Traditionally, birria was made using goat meat, but today, beef (especially beef chuck, brisket, or short ribs) is the most common protein.

The key ingredients in birria include:

These ingredients work together to create a bold, deep-flavored stew that is both savory and slightly smoky.

How Birria is Cooked: A Slow-Simmered Delicacy

The secret to authentic birria is the slow cooking process, which makes the meat incredibly tender and allows the flavors to fully develop. Here’s how birria is traditionally made:

1. Marinate the Meat – The beef or goat is marinated in a blend of chiles, vinegar, garlic, and spices for several hours, sometimes overnight.
2. Sear the Meat – The marinated meat is seared in a hot pan to develop a deep, smoky crust.
3. Slow Cook in Broth – The meat is then slowly braised for several hours in a broth made from tomatoes, chiles, and spices, until it becomes fall-apart tender.
4. Shred and Serve – Once fully cooked, the meat is shredded and served with its broth (consommé) for dipping.

This tender, juicy birria meat is what makes birria pizza so special—when placed on a crispy crust, it creates an unforgettable texture and flavor combination.

The Birria Pizza Trend – Why It’s So Popular

Birria has long been a staple in Mexican cuisine, but it wasn’t until recently that it exploded in popularity worldwide. The introduction of birria pizza took this traditional dish to a new level, blending the deep, savory flavors of slow-cooked beef with the crispy, cheesy elements of pizza.

But how did birria, and later birria pizza, become such a global sensation? The answer lies in street food culture, social media, and a growing love for fusion cuisine.

The Rise of Birria in Street Food Culture

While birria has been around for centuries, it wasn’t always a widely known dish outside of Mexico. That changed when street food vendors in California and Texas began serving birria tacos, offering a fresh, flavorful twist on classic Mexican street food.

The defining feature of these tacos was the crispy, cheese-filled tortilla dipped into a flavorful birria consommé—a method that quickly captured the attention of food lovers. Soon, birria trucks and taquerias across the U.S. started popping up, leading to long lines and viral reviews.

With its bold flavors, rich textures, and interactive eating experience, birria became one of the most sought-after dishes in Mexican street food history. It was only a matter of time before chefs and home cooks experimented with birria in other forms—giving birth to birria pizza.

How Social Media Made Birria Pizza Go Viral

One of the biggest reasons behind the birria pizza trend is social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. Food bloggers and content creators started sharing mouthwatering videos of birria tacos being dipped into consommé, and soon after, the same concept was applied to pizza.

Several factors made birria pizza an instant hit online:

• Visually Appealing – The melted cheese, crispy crust, and deep red consommé made for the perfect food video.
• Satisfying Eating Experience – Dipping a slice of pizza into consommé created a fun and unique way to enjoy pizza.
• Fusion Cuisine Popularity – Food lovers are always looking for new, innovative dishes, and birria pizza provided a fresh twist on two beloved comfort foods.

The trend gained traction in major food cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago, where restaurants and food trucks started adding birria pizza to their menus. Soon, it wasn’t just a specialty dish—it became a mainstream food obsession.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Making Birria Pizza at Home

Making birria pizza at home is easier than you might think. While it does take time to prepare the slow-cooked birria, the end result is worth every minute. This recipe will guide you through making the birria meat, preparing the consommé (dipping sauce), assembling the pizza, and baking it to perfection.

Ingredients Needed for Birria Pizza

For the Birria Meat & Consommé:

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast (or short ribs/brisket)
• 2 dried guajillo chiles, seeds removed
• 2 dried ancho chiles, seeds removed
• 1 dried chipotle pepper
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 2 tbsp white vinegar
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 cups beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pizza:

• 1 pre-made pizza dough (or homemade)
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup Oaxaca cheese (or Monterey Jack)
• ½ cup shredded birria meat
• ½ cup birria consommé (for brushing)
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, sliced for serving

Step 1: Making the Birria Consommé

1. Toast the chiles: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the guajillo, ancho, and chipotle chiles for about 30 seconds per side, until fragrant.
2. Soak the chiles: Place them in a bowl of hot water and soak for 10 minutes until softened.
3. Blend the sauce: In a blender, combine the soaked chiles, garlic, onion, tomatoes, vinegar, cumin, oregano, cinnamon, and cloves. Blend until smooth.
4. Sear the meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chunks on all sides until browned.
5. Simmer the birria: Pour the blended sauce over the beef, add bay leaves and beef broth, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 3-4 hours until the meat is tender and easily shreds.
6. Shred the beef: Remove the beef from the pot, shred it using two forks, and return it to the consommé to soak up the flavors.

Step 2: Preparing the Dough and Sauce

1. Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to your desired pizza shape.
3. Brush with consommé: Lightly brush the pizza dough with birria consommé for extra flavor.

Step 3: Assembling and Baking the Pizza

1. Add cheese first: Sprinkle a mix of mozzarella and Oaxaca cheese evenly over the dough.
2. Layer the birria meat: Spread shredded birria beef generously over the cheese.
3. Add toppings: Sprinkle thinly sliced red onions over the pizza.
4. Bake the pizza: Transfer the pizza to the preheated stone or baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.

Step 4: Garnishing and Serving Suggestions

1. Finish with fresh toppings: Once baked, sprinkle chopped cilantro on top and serve with lime wedges.
2. Dip into consommé: Serve the pizza with a bowl of warm birria consommé for dipping, just like birria tacos.

This homemade birria pizza is packed with flavor, from the crispy crust to the juicy, spicy birria meat. The consommé adds an extra layer of richness, making each bite unforgettable.

• Want a lighter option? Check out these Healthy Ground Chicken Recipes for delicious and nutritious meal ideas.

The Best Cheese and Toppings for Birria Pizza

The key to making birria pizza truly delicious lies in selecting the right cheese and toppings. Since birria is rich, juicy, and packed with bold flavors, pairing it with the best cheeses and complementary toppings enhances the overall experience.

Choosing the Right Cheese for a Melty Texture

When selecting cheese for birria pizza, you want varieties that provide a good melt, slight saltiness, and a creamy texture to balance the deep, smoky flavors of birria. Here are the best choices:

Best Cheeses for Birria Pizza

For the best results, use a blend of cheeses, such as Oaxaca + mozzarella, to get the perfect melty and stretchy texture while allowing the birria’s bold flavors to shine.

Best Toppings to Complement the Bold Flavors

Since birria is rich and packed with spice, the right toppings will enhance the texture and taste without overpowering the dish. Here are some top ingredient pairings for birria pizza:

Classic Birria Pizza Toppings

• Pickled Red Onions – Adds a tangy, slightly sweet crunch that cuts through the richness.
• Fresh Cilantro – Provides a bright, herbal freshness.
• Thinly Sliced Jalapeños – A little extra heat for spice lovers.
• Lime Wedges (on the side) – Squeezing fresh lime over the pizza balances the smoky flavors.
• Mexican Crema or Sour Cream – A slight drizzle adds creaminess and a cool contrast.

Creative Toppings for a Unique Twist

• Avocado Slices – Brings a creamy texture and mild flavor.
• Roasted Corn Kernels – A sweet and smoky contrast.
• Chopped Scallions – Adds a mild oniony crunch.
• Queso Fresco (Crumbled) – Adds a mild, salty bite.

Toppings to Avoid

Some toppings might clash with the deep, slow-cooked flavors of birria. Here’s what to skip:

• Pineapple – The sweetness can overpower the smoky and savory birria.
• Heavy Tomato Sauce – Birria already has consommé, so extra tomato sauce isn’t needed.
• Overpowering Cheeses (e.g., Blue Cheese, Feta) – Too strong and can take away from the birria flavor.

Final Tips for the Perfect Toppings

• Use fresh ingredients – The contrast between hot pizza and fresh toppings like cilantro and onions enhances the experience.
• Don’t overload the pizza – Birria is already rich, so too many toppings can make the pizza soggy.
• Always serve with consommé – It’s the signature way to enjoy birria pizza.

For a creative side dish, you might enjoy these Egg Roll Wrapper with Goat Cheese & Jalapeño as a crunchy, spicy pairing with your birria pizza.

Is Birria Pizza Healthy? Nutritional Breakdown

Birria pizza is undeniably delicious, but how does it stack up nutritionally? Like many indulgent foods, it can be high in calories, fat, and sodium, but there are also ways to make it healthier without sacrificing flavor.

In this section, we’ll break down the calories, macronutrients, and key nutrients of birria pizza and explore healthier ingredient alternatives for a lighter version.

Calories and Macronutrients of Birria Pizza

The exact nutritional content of birria pizza depends on portion size, ingredients, and cooking method. Below is an approximate breakdown for one large slice (⅛ of a 12-inch pizza) made with beef birria, mozzarella cheese, and a regular pizza crust:

Key Nutritional Considerations

• High in protein – Thanks to the slow-cooked birria beef, birria pizza provides a good source of protein, making it more filling than regular pizza.
• Moderate to high in fat – Cheese and birria contain saturated fats, which can be excessive if consumed in large amounts.
• Sodium levels – The consommé, cheese, and crust contribute to higher sodium content, which is something to watch for individuals with blood pressure concerns.
• Rich in flavor, but also calories – Because birria is slow-cooked in fatty cuts of beef, the dish leans toward the heavier side compared to traditional pizzas.

Healthier Ingredient Alternatives for a Lighter Version

If you want to enjoy birria pizza while keeping it healthier, here are simple ingredient swaps:

1. Leaner Meat Options

• Instead of beef chuck or short ribs, use leaner cuts like sirloin, chicken, or turkey for lower fat content.
• Try plant-based birria using jackfruit or mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly alternative.

2. Low-Fat Cheese Choices

• Use part-skim mozzarella instead of full-fat mozzarella.
• Swap Oaxaca cheese for reduced-fat Monterey Jack to cut down on saturated fat.
• Lightly sprinkle cotija or queso fresco instead of using large amounts of cheese.

3. Healthier Crust Options

• Whole wheat pizza dough – Adds fiber and complex carbs for better digestion.
• Cauliflower crust – A low-carb, gluten-free option.
• Thin crust instead of deep dish – Reduces calories and carbs per slice.

4. Reduce Sodium Levels

• Make consommé from scratch and use less salt.
• Limit processed cheeses, which tend to be high in sodium.

5. Add More Vegetables

• Topping birria pizza with grilled peppers, onions, tomatoes, and avocado boosts fiber and nutrients.
• A side salad with citrus dressing balances the richness of the pizza.

Final Verdict: Is Birria Pizza Healthy?

Birria pizza is a high-protein, flavor-packed meal, but it can be heavy on calories, fat, and sodium. However, with simple ingredient swaps, it can be modified into a healthier version without losing its signature taste.

Where to Find the Best Birria Pizza Near You

Birria pizza has become a must-try dish, and whether you’re in a major city or a smaller town, there’s a good chance you can find a place serving it. From Mexican taquerias to trendy food trucks, this dish has made its way onto menus across the U.S.

In this section, we’ll explore some of the top places to find birria pizza, how to identify a great birria pizza spot, and tips for ordering the best version near you.

Top Birria Pizza Restaurants in the U.S.

If you’re looking for authentic birria pizza, here are some of the best-rated places to check out:

1. Birrieria Gonzalez – Los Angeles, CA

• A famous spot known for birria tacos, ramen, and pizza.
• Their handmade pizza crust is brushed with consommé for extra flavor.
• The birria is slow-cooked for over 12 hours, ensuring tenderness.

2. La Birria Pizza – Chicago, IL

• Specializes in birria pizza made in a wood-fired oven.
• Offers beef, goat, and chicken birria options.
• Their spicy consommé adds an extra kick to every slice.

3. Tacos El Gordo – Las Vegas, NV

• Famous for Tijuana-style birria and crispy birria pizza.
• Uses authentic Mexican cheeses for a perfect melt.
• Customers rave about their house-made consommé.

4. Birria-Landia – New York, NY

• A popular food truck serving birria tacos, mulitas, and pizza.
• Their slow-braised beef birria is packed with flavor.
• Known for having one of the best birria consommés in the U.S..

5. Tacos Don Cuco – Houston, TX

• Offers thick-crust birria pizza loaded with cheese and meat.
• Their handmade consommé is rich and flavorful.
• A favorite among Texas birria lovers.

How to Choose a Quality Birria Pizza Spot

If you don’t live near these locations, you can still find great birria pizza by looking for these key factors:

1. Check the Reviews

• Search for “birria pizza near me” on Google, Yelp, or TripAdvisor.
• Look for places with high ratings (4 stars and above) and detailed reviews.
• Pay attention to mentions of consommé quality, as this is a key component.

2. Look for Authentic Mexican Restaurants

• Birria pizza is best when made by restaurants specializing in birria or Mexican cuisine.
• If they already serve great birria tacos, chances are their pizza will be just as good.

3. Examine the Cheese and Toppings

• The best birria pizza uses authentic Mexican cheeses like Oaxaca, cotija, or queso fresco.
• It should have fresh toppings like cilantro and onions, not just plain cheese and meat.

4. Ensure They Serve a Side of Consommé

• Authentic birria pizza must come with a bowl of consommé for dipping.
• If a restaurant doesn’t serve consommé, it’s not the real deal.

Tips for Ordering the Best Birria Pizza

• Ask if the crust is brushed with consommé before baking – this adds an extra layer of flavor.
• Request extra consommé for dipping to get the full experience.
• Try a mix of cheeses like Oaxaca and mozzarella for the best melt.
• Pair with a side of lime and pickled onions to balance the richness.

FAQs About Birria and Birria Pizza

Birria pizza has gained immense popularity, but many people still have questions about its ingredients, preparation, and health aspects. Below, we answer some of the most commonly asked questions about birria and birria pizza.

1. What is birria pizza?

Birria pizza is a Mexican-Italian fusion dish that combines the slow-cooked, flavorful meat of birria with a crispy, cheesy pizza crust. It is often served with a side of consommé (broth) for dipping, similar to birria tacos. The dish has become a viral sensation due to its bold flavors, melty cheese, and crispy crust.

2. What is birria made of?

Traditional birria is made with slow-cooked meat, typically goat, beef, or lamb, braised in a rich sauce made from dried chiles, tomatoes, garlic, and spices. The slow cooking process makes the meat tender and juicy, and it is often served with a side of consommé for dipping.

3. Is birria taco unhealthy?

Birria tacos can be high in calories, fat, and sodium, especially when made with fatty cuts of beef and cheese. However, they also provide a good source of protein. To make them healthier, you can:

• Use leaner meats like chicken or turkey.
• Choose less cheese or a lighter variety.
• Opt for a whole wheat or corn tortilla instead of a flour tortilla.

4. What does birria taste like?

Birria has a rich, smoky, slightly spicy, and deeply savory flavor. The slow-cooked meat is tender and juicy, and the broth (consommé) adds a layer of depth and warmth with hints of chile, garlic, and spices. When paired with melted cheese on pizza, it creates an irresistible balance of bold, umami flavors.

5. Why are birria tacos so popular?

Birria tacos became a viral food trend due to their crispy texture, bold flavors, and the interactive experience of dipping them in consommé. Social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube played a huge role in making them popular, as videos of cheesy, crispy tacos being dipped in broth quickly gained millions of views.

6. Is birria healthy?

Birria can be both nutritious and indulgent, depending on how it’s made. While it is high in protein, it can also be rich in fats and sodium. Healthier versions include:

• Using lean meats like chicken or turkey instead of beef.
• Cooking with less oil to reduce fat content.
• Adding more vegetables like onions, cilantro, and avocado for extra fiber and nutrients.

Why You Should Try Birria Pizza Today

Birria pizza is more than just a food trend—it’s a bold fusion of Mexican and Italian flavors that delivers an unforgettable combination of crispy, cheesy, and juicy goodness. Whether you try it at a top-rated restaurant or make it at home, this dish offers a unique twist on classic pizza that’s perfect for any food lover.

From the deep, slow-cooked flavors of birria meat to the melty cheese and crispy crust, every bite is packed with richness and spice, especially when dipped in a flavorful consommé.

Final Tips for the Perfect Homemade Birria Pizza

• Slow cook the birria for the most tender and flavorful meat.
• Use a cheese blend (Oaxaca + mozzarella) for the best melt.
• Brush the crust with consommé before baking for extra flavor.
• Serve with fresh toppings like cilantro, pickled onions, and lime for balance.
• Always include a side of consommé for dipping—it’s what makes birria pizza truly special.

Birria pizza is a dish that brings cultures together, offering something both familiar and excitingly new. Whether you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine, pizza, or both, this is one recipe you don’t want to miss.