These Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos are a tasty treat! The beef is cooked to juicy perfection, and the sweet and garlicky sauce makes every bite special.
Who can resist a taco night? I love how easy it is to whip up the beef and fill the tortillas. Plus, drizzling on some extra BBQ sauce never hurts! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: I love using chuck or brisket for its rich flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try flank steak or ground beef instead. Both will still work well with the sauce.
Honey: Honey adds a touch of sweetness. If you’re looking for a lower glycemic option, consider using agave syrup or maple syrup. You could also use brown sugar if you don’t have syrup on hand.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce, but if you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own! A mix of ketchup, vinegar, and spices works well. For a spicier kick, use a spicy BBQ sauce or add some hot sauce.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas provide a soft texture, but corn tortillas are gluten-free and add a nice flavor. You can also use lettuce wraps for a low-carb option!
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic, but Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend can give a nice twist. Vegan cheese can be a great substitute if you need a dairy-free option.
How Do I Get the Beef Perfectly Tender?
Getting the beef tender is important for tasty tacos. The key is to sear it well and then simmer in the sauce.
- Start by searing the beef on medium-high heat. Make sure it’s browned on all sides, which adds flavor.
- Reduce the heat to low after adding the honey and BBQ sauce. This allows the beef to cook slowly and stay juicy.
- Cover the skillet to trap moisture. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until the beef is fork-tender.
Checking on it occasionally is a good idea, so you can ensure it doesn’t dry out. Enjoy your soft, flavorful beef!
How to Make Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb beef (chuck or brisket), diced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tacos:
- 4 small tortillas (flour or corn)
- 1/2 cup cheese (cheddar or your choice), shredded
- 1/4 cup sour cream or crema
- 2 tbsp green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious taco recipe will take about 10 minutes for preparation and about 20 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll need around 30 minutes to get these tasty tacos on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Garlic:
Start by melting the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add in the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
2. Cooking the Beef:
Next, add the diced beef to the skillet. Season with some salt and pepper. Sear the beef on all sides until it’s nicely browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush this step, as browning adds great flavor!
3. Adding Sauce and Simmering:
Now it’s time to add the honey and BBQ sauce into the skillet. Stir well to coat the beef evenly in the sauce. Cover the skillet, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes so the beef becomes tender and the sauce thickens.
4. Preparing the Tortillas:
While the beef is simmering, warm your tortillas in a separate pan or in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds until they are soft and pliable. This makes them easier to fold and fill.
5. Assembling the Tacos:
Once the beef is cooked and has soaked up all that delicious sauce, it’s time to assemble your tacos! Place a generous amount of the beef mixture onto each tortilla. Don’t be shy—make them hearty!
6. Adding Toppings:
Drizzle some sour cream or crema over the beef in each taco. Next, sprinkle on a handful of shredded cheese and finish off with some chopped green onions for a burst of flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious tacos immediately while they’re warm. Gather your loved ones, dig in, and enjoy the wonderful flavors of garlic, honey, and BBQ in every bite!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While chuck or brisket works great, you can also use flank steak or sirloin. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly; thinner cuts will cook faster, so adjust the simmering time accordingly to ensure tenderness.
What if I Don’t Have Honey? Can I Substitute It?
Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, try using a sugar-free syrup or sweetener, adjusting the quantity as needed based on sweetness preference.
How to Store Leftover Taco Filling?
Store any leftover beef mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You can even repurpose it for burritos or salads!
Can I Prepare the Beef Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the beef mixture a day in advance. Just let it cool completely, then store it in the fridge. Reheat it gently before assembling your tacos for a quick and easy meal!
