These garlic butter honey BBQ beef tacos are a fun twist on taco night! Juicy beef, mixed with sweet honey and a touch of garlic, is packed into warm tortillas for the perfect bite.
You can definitely taste the sweet and savory combo in every taco! I like to load mine up with fresh veggies and a drizzle of extra honey because, why not? Yum! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef makes a juicy filling, but you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re vegetarian, try using sautéed mushrooms or a meat substitute like lentils or tempeh.
Unsalted Butter: The butter adds rich flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, olive oil works well. Coconut oil can also bring a unique flavor, especially if you enjoy a hint of coconut.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce, sweet or smoky. If you’re out, you can make a quick homemade version with ketchup, a splash of vinegar, and a dash of paprika. For a healthier option, opt for a sugar-free BBQ sauce.
Honey: Honey gives a touch of sweetness. Maple syrup can be a good substitute if you prefer a vegan option. Agave syrup also works well for a similar flavor.
Tortillas: Use flour or corn tortillas based on your preference. If you’re gluten-free, many brands make delicious gluten-free tortilla options from almond or coconut flour.
How Do I Perfectly Cook the Garlic Without Burning It?
Cooking garlic can be tricky since it burns easily, turning bitter. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with a medium heat. This allows the garlic to cook slowly without burning.
- Add the garlic after your butter has melted. Sauté it for about 1 minute, just until fragrant.
- Keep stirring! This ensures even cooking and prevents any from sticking to the pan too long.
- If you notice it browning too quickly, lower the heat immediately – better safe than crispy!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly cooked garlic every time, adding a rich flavor to your tacos!
Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or thinly sliced beef strips)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 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 heat)
- Salt and 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 red onion
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious taco recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to cook. Overall, you’ll be enjoying your garlic butter honey BBQ beef tacos in about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Garlic:
Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring consistently until the garlic is fragrant but not brown. This step is crucial for getting that wonderful garlic flavor into your dish!
2. Cooking the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season the beef with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and chili powder if you like a little heat. Cook the beef, breaking it up with your spatula, until it’s browned and fully cooked. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally so it cooks evenly.
3. Mixing in the Sauces:
Once the beef is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the BBQ sauce and honey until everything is well combined. Let this mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes. This is where all the flavors meld together and the sauce thickens a bit, making the filling extra delicious!
4. Preparing the Tortillas:
While the beef mixture is simmering, warm your tortillas. You can do this in a dry pan over low heat or simply pop them into the microwave for about 20-30 seconds until they’re pliable. This makes them easy to fold and fill!
5. Assembling the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Spoon the garlic butter honey BBQ beef mixture onto each tortilla. Don’t hold back—make it a generous portion!
6. Adding Fresh Toppings:
Top your tacos with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped red onion, and a sprinkle of cheese. These fresh toppings add crunch and flavor that perfectly balance the sweet and savory beef.
7. Garnishing and Serving:
Finish off each taco with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with lime wedges on the side. Give your tacos a squeeze of lime before you take a bite for an extra zing!
8. Enjoy!
Now it’s time to dig in! Enjoy your flavorful garlic butter honey BBQ beef tacos and share with friends or family (if you want!). They’re sure to love them!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even thinly sliced pork for these tacos. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using mushrooms, lentils, or a meat substitute!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like heat, you can add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For an extra kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a few drops of hot sauce to the beef mixture!
Can I Make the Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the garlic butter honey BBQ beef filling in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it on the stove before serving and assemble your tacos!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos?
If you have leftover assembled tacos, store them in the fridge wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil. For best quality, eat them within 1-2 days. If you have leftover filling, store it separately in an airtight container to prevent the tortillas from getting soggy!
