How to Reheat Birria Tacos in Air Fryer — Crispy, Fast and Juicy

Introduction
Birria tacos are best enjoyed hot and fresh, but leftovers are often inevitable. So what’s the best way to bring them back to life without drying them out or ending up with soggy shells? The answer lies in knowing how to reheat birria tacos in air fryer — a method that’s fast, easy, and results in perfectly crispy tortillas with juicy meat inside.

In this article, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions, tips, and tricks to get the most out of your leftover birria tacos using your air fryer.

Also read: How to Reheat Enchiladas in the Oven

Why Use an Air Fryer?

Microwave and Oven Downsides

• Microwaves often leave tortillas rubbery or soggy.
• Ovens take longer and heat unevenly.
• Skillets require constant monitoring and cleanup.

Why Air Fryer Wins

• Circulates hot air for even crisping.
• Keeps the inside tender while crisping the shell.
• Faster and more consistent results.
• Great for both small and large batches.

Tools and Ingredients

What You Need

• Leftover birria tacos (folded or flat)
• Air fryer (basket or tray model)
• Cooking spray or melted butter
• Tongs or spatula
• Paper towels
• Optional: shredded cheese, birria consommé, lime, chopped cilantro

Step-by-Step: How to Reheat Birria Tacos in Air Fryer

1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and preheat for 2 to 3 minutes.

Pro Tip: Preheating helps achieve a crispy exterior from the start.

Need a refresher? Learn how to make birria consommé from scratch.

2: Prepare the Tacos

• Pat down any condensation or moisture with a paper towel.
• Lightly brush with melted butter or spray with oil.
• Add shredded cheese inside the taco if desired for extra gooeyness.

3: Arrange in the Basket

• Lay tacos flat in a single layer.
• Do not overlap — crowded tacos won’t crisp evenly.
• Use perforated parchment paper to prevent sticking, if needed.

4: Air Fry

• Cook at 350°F for 4 to 6 minutes.
• Flip each taco halfway through for even browning.
• Adjust time by 1 minute if your tacos are extra thick or filled.

5: Let Rest and Serve

• Allow to rest for 1 minute after removing from the fryer.
• Garnish with chopped cilantro, diced onions, and a side of consommé.

Tips for Success

Don’t Skip Preheating

This small step ensures the air fryer starts crisping the tacos immediately, reducing sogginess.

Don’t Overcook

More time doesn’t equal better results. Overcooking will dry out the meat. Stick to the 4–6 minute window.

Add Cheese Midway

Open the taco gently after flipping and add cheese for extra melt and stretch. Close and let finish crisping.

Variations and Reheat Options

Frozen Birria Tacos

• Thaw in the fridge overnight for best texture.
• Reheat for 6–7 minutes at 350°F, flipping halfway.
• Pat off ice crystals before placing in air fryer.

Vegan Birria Tacos

• Use jackfruit or mushroom-based birria.
• Vegan cheese melts well and crisps up nicely.
• Same air fryer method applies.

What to Serve With Reheated Birria Tacos

• Warm consommé for dipping
• Cilantro-lime rice
• Pickled red onions
• Refried beans
• Fresh lime wedges

Check out: Mexican Rice and Salsa Recipe

Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake	Solution
Overcrowding the basket	Cook in batches for even crisping
Skipping the oil	Light spray or butter ensures golden color
Forgetting to flip	Flip once midway for balanced crunch
Heating too long	Stick to 4–6 minutes to prevent dryness
Not preheating	Always preheat for consistent temperature

How to Store and Freeze Birria Tacos

Fridge Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps for up to 3 days.

Freezer Storage

• Wrap each taco in foil.
• Store in zip-top bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating from Frozen

• Thaw first for best results.
• Reheat at 350°F for 6–7 minutes, flipping once.

Creative Ways to Use Leftovers

Birria Nachos

• Cut up reheated tacos.
• Top tortilla chips with birria pieces, melted cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream.

Taco Salad Remix

• Chop reheated tacos.
• Toss with romaine lettuce, avocado, salsa, and lime dressing.

Like tortilla hacks? Try our Homemade Tortilla Chips from Leftovers

Nutrition (Per Reheated Taco)

• Calories: 270
• Protein: 16g
• Fat: 14g
• Carbs: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 320mg

FAQ (People Also Ask)

How do you reheat birria tacos?

The best way is using an air fryer at 350°F for 4 to 6 minutes. It crisps the tortilla while preserving the juicy birria filling.

Can I reheat a taco in an air fryer?

Absolutely. Air fryers are great for reheating tacos. They bring back crispiness without drying the meat or making the shell rubbery.

How to make birria tacos crispy again?

Brush lightly with oil or melted butter and air fry at 350°F. Cook for 4 to 6 minutes, flipping halfway for a golden, crispy finish.

How to crisp up tacos in an air fryer?

Place tacos in a single layer, preheat to 350°F, and air fry for up to 6 minutes. Flip midway for even results.

Conclusion

Leftover birria tacos don’t have to be boring or soggy. Now that you know how to reheat birria tacos in air fryer, you’ll never go back to microwaving them again. In just a few minutes, your tacos come out hot, juicy on the inside, and perfectly crispy on the outside—just like when they were fresh off the griddle.

For best results, always preheat your air fryer, brush with a bit of oil or butter, and don’t overcrowd the basket. Whether you’re reheating a single taco or a full tray for the family, this method works every time.

Want to take it further? Try transforming your leftovers into birria nachos, taco salads, or even breakfast quesadillas the next morning. The possibilities are endless once your tacos are revived with that signature crunch.

Want to finish your meal on a sweet note? Check out our guide for Crispy Air Fryer Churros—a perfect dessert pairing.

Orphan link: Check out our original birria taco recipe and learn how to make them from scratch, just like abuela used to.

Print