These garlic butter honey BBQ beef tacos are a tasty mix of sweet and savory! The juicy beef is cooked in garlic butter with a hint of honey, giving it a mouthwatering flavor.
If you’re like me, you can’t resist a good taco night! Just pile the beef into warm tortillas, add your favorite toppings, and enjoy the deliciousness. Taco Tuesday just got a major upgrade! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Flank steak or sirloin works best for these tacos. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using ground turkey or chicken. They may not be as tender, but they can soak up that tasty sauce just as well!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a fantastic flavor. If you’re out, garlic powder can work in a pinch, but start with less, as it’s more concentrated. I always recommend fresh when possible for a stronger taste!
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness. You can swap it for olive oil or even ghee if you’re aiming for a dairy-free option. I prefer butter for its flavor, but feel free to experiment!
Barbecue Sauce: Your favorite store-bought brand is perfect. If you want to make it from scratch, combine ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices for a quick version. The flavor will vary depending on your choice, so pick one you love!
Tortillas: Small flour or corn tortillas both work great. If you want a gluten-free option, look for corn or rice tortillas. I personally enjoy corn for their texture and flavor, especially in tacos!
How Do I Ensure My Beef is Tender and Flavorful?
The key to tender beef is twofold: cooking method and simmering. Start by searing your beef until nicely browned. This creates a deep flavor. Then, simmer it in the sauce to allow it to absorb all those yummy flavors.
- Cook beef over medium heat for a good sear—about 5-7 minutes.
- Mix your sauce and add it to the skillet, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes. This method keeps the beef juicy and flavorful!
And don’t forget to let the beef soak in that garlic butter honey BBQ sauce—that’s where the magic happens!
How to Make Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 1 lb beef (flank steak or sirloin), diced
- 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
- 2 green onions, finely chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 30 minutes—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Garlic:
Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook the garlic for about 1 minute, stirring often, until it smells fragrant. Just be careful not to let it burn!
2. Cook the Beef:
Next, add the diced beef to the skillet. Season the beef with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the beef for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned. You want that delicious flavor to develop!
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the honey, barbecue sauce, and soy sauce. Once combined, pour this tasty mixture over the browned beef in the skillet. Stir well to make sure all the beef is coated with the sauce.
4. Simmer the Beef:
Now, reduce the heat to low and let the beef simmer in the sauce. Allow it to cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened a bit. This step makes the flavors blend beautifully!
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While the beef simmers, heat your tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat for a minute on each side or in the microwave for about 30 seconds until warm and pliable.
6. Assemble the Tacos:
With everything ready, it’s time to assemble your tacos! Place a generous scoop of the garlic butter honey BBQ beef onto each tortilla. Load it up with shredded cheese on top.
7. Add Finishing Touches:
If you like, drizzle some sour cream on top for creaminess, and finish off with a sprinkle of chopped green onions for a fresh crunch.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the tacos while they’re warm and enjoy your mouthwatering Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Substitute the Beef for Another Protein?
Absolutely! Chicken, pork, or even plant-based proteins like tempeh or mushrooms can be great alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time: chicken should be cooked until fully tender (about 7-10 minutes), pork needs about 10-12 minutes, and mushrooms will take around 5-7 minutes until they are browned and cooked through.
How Do I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or a teaspoon of chili powder to the beef while it cooks. You can also drizzle hot sauce on top of the assembled tacos for an extra kick!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving. For the best texture, keep the tortillas separate until ready to eat.
Can I Use Different Types of Tortillas?
Yes! Feel free to use corn tortillas, whole wheat, or even low-carb tortillas if you prefer. Just warm them up as directed to make them pliable and delicious for your tacos!
