These tacos are packed with juicy beef, coated in a tasty garlic butter and honey BBQ sauce. They are perfect for any taco night and bring a sweet twist to the party!
Let’s be honest, who can resist that amazing smell of garlic and BBQ wafting through the kitchen? I love piling on toppings like lettuce and cheese for extra crunch—and just maybe a little more sauce! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: You can use any ground meat like turkey, chicken, or plant-based options for a lighter choice. Thinly sliced steak also works well for a more robust flavor. I’ve even used leftover roast beef before, and it turned out fantastic!
Butter: Unsalted butter brings that rich flavor, but you can substitute olive oil or ghee if you want a dairy-free option. I love using clarified butter for an extra depth of flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best taste, but if you’re in a hurry, jarred minced garlic can work too. I like to double the garlic for a more intense garlicky flavor!
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite brand, but you can make your own too! If you’re avoiding sugar, look for no-sugar-added BBQ sauces or make it with sugar-free sweeteners. A smoky salsa can also be a delicious alternative.
Honey: If you need a vegan substitute, use agave syrup or maple syrup. If you’re looking for a lower glycemic option, you can consider using stevia or monk fruit sweetener with a little water to thin it.
How Can I Make Sure My Beef is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking beef just right can make or break the dish. Here are some tips to ensure it cooks perfectly:
- Use medium heat to allow the beef to brown evenly without burning.
- Break ground beef into smaller pieces for even cooking and browning. If using strips, lay them flat in the pan; don’t overcrowd.
- Keep an eye on the color; it should change from pink to brown. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for ground beef.
- For steak strips, cook until they reach your desired level of doneness. A quick sear works wonders!
By following these tips, you’ll end up with flavorful and juicy beef in your tacos every time!
Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or thinly sliced beef strips
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of preparation and 15 minutes of cooking time, for a total of around 25 minutes. It’s a quick and delicious meal to whip up any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef Filling:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant but not browned—stirring is key to keep it from burning!
2. Cook the Beef:
Add your ground beef (or beef strips) to the skillet. If using ground beef, break it up with a spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through. Make sure to stir occasionally for even cooking!
3. Season the Beef:
Once the beef is cooked, season it with smoked paprika, chili powder (if you like a bit of heat), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to ensure the flavors are nicely mixed.
4. Add the BBQ Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce and honey to create a sweet and tangy blend. Pour this honey BBQ sauce over the beef in the skillet. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and stir until the beef is thoroughly coated and the butter is melted—this will take about 2 minutes.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While the beef is cooking, warm your tortillas in a dry skillet over low heat or microwave them for a few seconds, until they are soft and pliable. This makes them easier to fold and fill!
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Once the beef is ready, assemble your tacos. Spoon a generous amount of the garlic butter honey BBQ beef into each tortilla. Top with shredded lettuce, cheese, and fresh cilantro if you’re using it.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor. Squeeze lime over your tacos just before eating for a refreshing touch!
Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos! They’re sure to become a favorite in no time!
FAQ for Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
Can I Substitute Different Meats in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based protein for a lighter option. If you prefer, thinly sliced steak also works wonderfully in this recipe, providing a different texture and flavor.
How Can I Adjust the Spiciness of the Tacos?
If you want to control the heat, simply omit the chili powder and adjust the smoked paprika to taste. For a milder flavor, you can also use sweet paprika instead. If you love spice, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce before serving!
Can I Make These Tacos Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef filling in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it in a skillet before serving. Warm the tortillas fresh each time for the best texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover beef filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tortillas can be kept in a dry, sealed bag. To reheat, warm the beef on the stove and warm the tortillas briefly before serving again.
