These Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos are a tasty treat! The beef is tender and sweet, thanks to the honey BBQ sauce, and the garlic butter adds a yummy twist.
Trust me, when you take a bite, you’ll be hooked! I love serving mine with fresh toppings like cilantro and diced onions. They’re super fun to make and even better to eat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef/Sirloin: These cuts provide a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey or chicken can be substituted instead. For a vegetarian twist, try using mushrooms or lentils!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re out, garlic powder can work in a pinch. One teaspoon of garlic powder equals about one clove of fresh garlic.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps to balance the BBQ sauce. If you prefer, maple syrup or agave nectar can be great substitutes!
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand for the best taste. For a different flavor profile, try swapping it with a teriyaki sauce or a spicy hot sauce for some kick!
Tortillas: I suggest using flour tortillas for their softness. You could also use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option that adds a bit of extra flavor.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Beef for Tacos?
Getting the beef just right is key for delicious tacos. Here’s how you can do it:
- Start by heating the skillet on medium to ensure even cooking.
- Once the butter is melted, add the garlic, letting it infuse the oil before adding your beef.
- Break the beef apart with a spatula as it cooks to avoid clumps.
- Look for a nice brown color, which means it’s cooked fully and full of flavor!
Be sure to taste and adjust the seasonings before serving to make sure everything is just right! Enjoy your taco night!
How to Make Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef or sirloin, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite type)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Optional: Sour cream or crema for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and cook. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun taco night with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Garlic:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the unsalted butter and let it melt. Once it’s melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it smells amazing and fragrant.
2. Cook the Beef:
Next, add the diced beef to the skillet. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks, until it’s nicely browned and completely cooked through. This is when your kitchen will start smelling really good!
3. Add the Flavor:
Now it’s time to add the sweetness and flavor! Stir in the honey, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it’s all heated through and tangy.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While the beef is simmering, warm your tortillas. You can do this in a separate pan or on a grill. Just heat them until they are soft and pliable, making them easy to fold.
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Once everything is ready, it’s time to build your tacos! Place a generous amount of the garlic butter honey BBQ beef mixture onto each tortilla.
6. Add Toppings:
Top each taco with diced red onion and fresh chopped cilantro. If you like, drizzle some sour cream or crema on top for extra creaminess.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your tasty tacos immediately. Enjoy the wonderful mix of flavors and the joy of homemade tacos with family and friends!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be excellent alternatives. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly since poultry can cook quicker than beef. Be sure to cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you like a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture while it simmers. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving for an extra kick!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the beef separate from the tortillas and toppings. Reheat the beef on the stove or in the microwave, and warm the tortillas just before serving again.
Can I Prepare the Beef Mixture in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just follow the instructions until the simmering step, then let it cool before sealing it in an airtight container. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove until warmed through.
