These Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos are a tasty twist on a classic. Juicy beef coated in a sweet and tangy sauce, wrapped in soft tortillas, makes each bite a delight!
You won’t be able to stop at just one taco! I love adding some fresh toppings like avocado and cilantro for a fresh kick. It’s like a taco party in my mouth! 🌮😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The star of this dish! You can use ground beef for a quick prep or sliced beef strips for a more gourmet feel. If you’re looking to switch it up, try ground turkey or even plant-based crumbles for a lighter option.
Honey: This ingredient brings a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors. If you’re looking for a healthier substitute, maple syrup or agave syrup can work too, just adjust to taste.
BBQ Sauce: Choose a sauce that you love! If you’re out, you can mix ketchup with a splash of Worcestershire sauce and a hint of vinegar. It’s a creative fix when you’re in a pinch!
Tortillas: I prefer soft flour tortillas because they wrap nicely around the filling. Corn tortillas are a great gluten-free option, but keep them warm and they’ll be easy to handle.
How Do You Make Sure The Beef Is Flavored Perfectly?
Cooking the beef with garlic butter creates a flavorful base. Here are some tips to enhance the dish:
- Start by melting the butter over medium heat; this helps release the garlic’s flavor.
- Cook the beef until it’s no longer pink. Don’t rush this step; browning adds depth!
- Mix in the honey and BBQ sauce thoroughly. Let it simmer for a few minutes so the flavors can blend well.
Assemble your tacos right when you’re ready to eat; this keeps the tortillas warm and prevents them from getting soggy. Top it off however you like for a personal touch!
Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or thinly sliced beef strips
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/3 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite variety)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Optional: sliced avocado, sour cream, lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 10-15 minutes to cook. In just about 25-30 minutes, you’ll have delicious tacos ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Garlic Butter:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s bubbly, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, but not burned. This will be the flavorful base for your beef!
2. Cook the Beef:
Add the beef to the skillet. If you’re using ground beef, break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure it’s nice and brown for the best flavor!
3. Make the Sauce:
Now it’s time to add the fun stuff! Stir in the honey, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until the beef is evenly coated. Let this simmer for about 3-5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld perfectly.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While the beef is simmering, warm your tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet for 30 seconds on each side or pop them in the microwave for about 15 seconds. This makes them nice and pliable, perfect for wrapping!
5. Assemble Your Tacos:
Grab a warm tortilla and spoon some of the garlic butter honey BBQ beef onto the center. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cheese for extra flavor. Sprinkle on some fresh cilantro to brighten it up!
6. Add Optional Toppings and Serve:
If you like, add sliced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, and a squeeze of lime for a zesty finish. Serve your tacos immediately and enjoy your delicious creation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even pork for a different flavor profile. If using beef strips, ensure they’re thinly sliced for quick cooking. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
Can I Make the Filling in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the garlic butter honey BBQ beef a day ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it gently on the stove until warmed through before assembling your tacos.
How Should I Store Leftover Tacos?
For leftovers, store the beef filling in a separate airtight container from any toppings and tortillas. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Warm the beef on the stovetop or in the microwave, and assemble fresh tacos right before eating!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! You can swap the beef with plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu. Use vegan butter to maintain the garlic butter flavor, and for the BBQ sauce, check that it’s vegan-friendly. Enjoy your delicious plant-based tacos!
