These Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos are packed with flavor! The beef is juicy and smoky, combined with a rich garlic and honey sauce that brings everything together. Tacos just got a sweet upgrade!
Honestly, who can resist a taco loaded with such tasty goodness? I love piling on toppings like fresh cilantro or creamy avocado. Perfect for taco night with family or friends! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: I recommend sirloin or flank steak for tenderness. If you want a leaner option, try chicken breast or even ground turkey. Just adjust the cooking time for thinner cuts.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling salt levels, but you can use ghee or a plant-based butter if you’re looking for dairy-free options.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce for convenience. If you’re adventurous, try homemade or even teriyaki sauce for a twist!
Honey: For a vegan alternative, agave syrup or maple syrup works well. Just keep an eye on the sweetness level to suit your taste.
Tortillas: I prefer flour tortillas for their softness, but corn tortillas are gluten-free. You can even try lettuce wraps for a low-carb option!
How Do I Get Juicy Beef in My Tacos?
To ensure your beef is juicy and tender, follow these simple cooking tips. Start by slicing the beef thinly against the grain. This breaks up the muscle fibers and makes every bite tender.
- Quickly cook the beef on medium-high heat to sear the outside without overcooking.
- Let the beef rest for a couple of minutes after cooking before assembling your tacos. This helps retain juices.
- If you have time, marinate the beef ahead for extra flavor; even 30 minutes works wonders!
How to Make Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite variety)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembling the Tacos:
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes for cooking, totaling around 25 minutes before you can dig into these delicious tacos!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the BBQ Sauce Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce and honey until well combined. Set the mixture aside for later. This sweet and tangy sauce is what makes these tacos extra special!
2. Season the Beef:
Take your thinly sliced beef and season it generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and ground cumin. This will add a depth of flavor to the beef that pairs beautifully with the BBQ sauce.
3. Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned beef to the skillet. Cook it for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it’s browned and cooked through. When done, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Make the Garlic Butter:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter. Wait until the butter is melted, then add the minced garlic. Cook the garlic for about 1 minute or until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
5. Combine Beef with Sauce:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked beef back into the skillet and pour in your BBQ and honey mixture. Toss everything together so the beef is well coated in that tasty sauce. Allow it to cook for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
6. Warm the Tortillas:
While the beef is cooking, warm the tortillas either in a dry skillet or in the microwave until they are pliable. This makes it easier to fill them with all the yummy goodness!
7. Assemble the Tacos:
For each taco, place a few slices of the saucy beef onto the tortilla. Top it with diced red onion, shredded lettuce or cabbage, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the tacos with lime wedges on the side for squeezing overtop. The fresh lime juice really brightens up the flavors. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos!
FAQ About Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with chicken thighs, pork shoulder, or even ground turkey. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is cooked through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like a little heat, consider adding chili powder or diced jalapeños to the beef seasoning. You can also use a spicy BBQ sauce to amp up the flavor!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef and sauce a day in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the beef in a skillet before assembling your tacos!
What Should I Serve with These Tacos?
These tacos pair great with sides like Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh corn salad. You can also serve tortilla chips with salsa for a complete meal!
