These garlic butter honey BBQ beef tacos are bursting with flavor! Tender beef is cooked in a sweet and tangy sauce, making every bite feel like a party in your mouth.
Do yourself a favor and load up these tacos with your favorite toppings. I promise, you’ll be going back for seconds—maybe even thirds! 🌮
I love how quickly these tacos come together. Just cook the beef and pile it into tortillas for a yummy meal in no time. Perfect for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the show! You can swap it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer, thinly sliced beef strips or even plant-based meat alternatives work well, too.
Butter: For that rich flavor, use unsalted butter. If you’re dairy-free, olive oil or vegan butter can step in without losing taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a punch, but garlic powder can work in a pinch. Use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove for a milder flavor.
Barbecue Sauce: The sweetness in the sauce is key! You can use homemade or your favorite store brand. If you’re looking for a healthier choice, try a low-sugar BBQ sauce.
Honey: This gives a wonderful sweetness. Maple syrup or agave can substitute if you’re vegan or want something different.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Cooked Beef?
Cooking the beef right will elevate your tacos! Here’s a simple guide:
- Heat your skillet to medium before adding butter and garlic. This helps prevent burning.
- Add the beef after the garlic is fragrant. Break it apart as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly.
- Look for no pink bits; this usually takes 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat for a leaner taste.
Mix in your sauce and spices gently, letting it simmer a little to meld the flavors. Keep tasting; adjust the seasoning if needed!
Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or thinly sliced beef strips
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a mild kick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 small soft tortillas (corn or flour)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- Lime wedges, for serving
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. Just a quick meal to satisfy your taco cravings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Garlic:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté it until it becomes fragrant, which should take about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn it!
2. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef or sliced beef strips to the skillet. Cook the beef, breaking it up with a spatula if using ground meat, until it is fully browned and cooked through. This will take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat in the skillet, drain it before proceeding.
3. Add Flavor:
Stir in the barbecue sauce, honey, smoked paprika, chili powder (if you’re using it), salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes. This will let the flavors meld together and slightly thicken the sauce.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While the beef is cooking, warm your tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until they are pliable. This will make it easier to fill and fold them.
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Grab a tortilla and spoon a generous amount of the BBQ beef mixture onto the center. Top it with shredded cheese, diced red onion, and fresh cilantro.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your tacos with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze lime juice over your tacos for a zesty touch. Enjoy this delicious Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos with friends and family!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to beef and works well in this recipe. Just be mindful that it may need a little more seasoning since it’s milder in flavor.
What Toppings Can I Add to My Tacos?
Feel free to get creative! Some delicious options include sliced avocado, sour cream, jalapeños, or fresh salsa. You can also use different cheeses like queso fresco or feta for a unique twist!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover beef mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or microwave. Tortillas can be stored separately wrapped in foil to maintain their softness.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free tortillas, and double-check the barbecue sauce and honey to ensure they don’t contain any gluten ingredients. Enjoy your tacos worry-free!
