These Easy Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos are a tasty treat! They’re packed with tender beef and flavored with a sweet and savory garlic butter sauce. Yum!
What’s great is how quick they are to whip up. I just cook the beef, mix in that sticky sauce, and fill up warm tortillas. Perfect for busy nights—maybe even with extra napkins! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using ground beef for a quick cook time. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken. If you prefer steak, use flank or sirloin sliced thin for a tasty variation.
Unsalted Butter: Butter adds richness. If you’re dairy-free, olive oil works just as well and still brings great flavor. You could also try ghee for a nutty undertone!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a punch of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute (about 1/2 tsp). But fresh is best for that lovely aroma.
BBQ Sauce: Honey BBQ sauce adds sweetness. You can swap it out for any BBQ sauce you prefer, or even a homemade one! Adjust sweeteners to taste.
Honey: Adds another level of sweetness. Maple syrup works as an alternative if you want to keep it vegan. Just not as thick, so add a bit more if needed.
How Do I Achieve the Perfectly Sautéed Garlic?
Sautéing garlic is simple, but it burns easily! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium heat to prevent burning. When the butter melts, immediately add the minced garlic.
- Stir it continuously for about 1 minute. You want it to be fragrant and lightly golden, not brown.
- If it starts to turn dark, lower the heat! You can always add more garlic later, but burnt garlic can make the dish bitter.
Getting the garlic right boosts the flavor of your tacos and makes cooking super enjoyable!
Easy 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
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (honey BBQ flavor preferred)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembly:
- 6 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup shredded red cabbage or purple cabbage
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: drizzle sauce (e.g., chipotle mayo or sour cream mixed with hot sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious taco recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, satisfying, and full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
2. Cook the Beef:
Add the ground beef or sliced beef strips to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Mix in the BBQ Sauce:
Stir in the BBQ sauce and honey, mixing well to coat the beef evenly. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While the beef is cooking, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until they’re soft and pliable. This makes them easier to fold.
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Place a generous portion of the BBQ beef mixture on each tortilla. Don’t be shy—load them up!
6. Add Toppings:
Top each taco with shredded cabbage for a nice crunch and a fresh flavor. Then, drizzle with your choice of sauce, such as chipotle mayo or a spiced sour cream, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro for a pop of color.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the tacos immediately while they’re warm. Enjoy your flavorful Easy Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos with friends or family!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
Can I Use Other Types of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great leaner alternative. If you prefer steak, flank or sirloin can be sliced thinly and used in place of ground beef for a delicious twist.
What Can I Substitute for BBQ Sauce?
You can use any BBQ sauce you prefer, whether it’s a different flavor or a homemade version. A teriyaki sauce or even a sweet chili sauce can work well if you want to change things up!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to keep them moist.
Can I Make These Tacos Spicier?
Yes! If you enjoy heat, add some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture while cooking. You can also use spicy BBQ sauce to amp up the flavor!
