These Easy Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos are a tasty treat! With juicy beef, sweet honey, and a hint of garlic, they’re sure to please everyone at the table.
Who doesn’t love tacos? I can’t resist piling them high with toppings like cheese and avocado. Trust me, making them is just as fun as eating them! 🌮😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the dish. I prefer to use 80/20 ground beef for a balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead.
Honey: Honey adds a sweet element to the tacos. If you need a substitute, you could use maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness.
BBQ Sauce: Any BBQ sauce you enjoy will work. I love using a tangy or sweet variety, but feel free to switch it up with your favorite homemade sauce for a personal touch!
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are soft and pliable, but corn tortillas offer a gluten-free option and a different flavor. Either works well — just warm them up before filling.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor and color. If you’re not a fan, try fresh parsley or green onions for a different taste.
What’s the Trick to Cooking Ground Beef to Perfection?
Cooking ground beef properly is key for tasty tacos. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet and add butter to get a nice sear on the beef.
- Break the beef apart as it cooks. This helps it brown evenly and gives great texture.
- Season during cooking. This way, the meat absorbs all that wonderful flavor.
- Don’t rush it! Letting the beef brown nicely adds depth to the taste.
By taking these steps, you’ll achieve delicious beef for your tacos that pairs wonderfully with the sweet and smoky BBQ flavor!
Easy Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Beef:
- 1 lb ground beef (or thinly sliced beef strips)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Tacos:
- 6 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
- For the Drizzle Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a quick and delicious meal option! With everything ready in under 30 minutes, you can have a tasty dinner on the table in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Garlic:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the butter and let it melt. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about a minute, or until it becomes fragrant. This will give your beef a delicious garlicky flavor!
2. Cook the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef—or the sliced beef strips—into the skillet. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally. If you’re using ground beef, remember to break it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add Honey and BBQ Sauce:
Once your beef is fully cooked, stir in the honey and BBQ sauce. Let this mixture simmer for about 3-5 minutes. You want the sauce to thicken and coat the beef nicely, giving it a sticky, sweet flavor.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While the beef is simmering, take your tortillas and warm them up! You can do this in a dry skillet over low heat or in the microwave until they’re soft and pliable. This will make it easier to fill them with all the delicious beef.
5. Make the Drizzle Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, BBQ sauce, lime juice, and a pinch of cayenne pepper (if you’re feeling a little spicy!). This will be the creamy sauce that drizzles over your tacos.
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to build your tacos! Take each tortilla and divide the BBQ beef mixture evenly among them. Don’t be shy—pile it on!
7. Add Toppings:
Top each taco with a handful of chopped cilantro, red onion, and shredded cheese if you’re using it. These toppings add color, crunch, and flavor!
8. Drizzle and Serve:
Finish off by drizzling your prepared sauce over the assembled tacos. This adds an extra layer of deliciousness!
9. Enjoy Your Tacos!
Serve your yummy tacos while they’re fresh and warm. Gather everyone, dig in, and delight in this sweet and savory feast!
These tacos combine savory garlic butter with sweet honey BBQ flavor, all wrapped in soft tortillas. The fresh cilantro and red onion add brightness, while the drizzle sauce brings it all together for a delicious meal!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as turkey may cook a little quicker than beef. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious!
How Do I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you prefer a bit of heat, you can add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef while cooking. You can also drizzle a bit of hot sauce over the finished tacos for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare the Beef Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat it on the stove before serving, and warm your tortillas when you’re ready to assemble the tacos!
What Vegetables Can I Add for Extra Crunch?
Feel free to add any crunchy vegetables you enjoy! Shredded lettuce, diced bell peppers, or sliced jalapeños can all be great additions to your tacos for added texture and flavor!
