These tacos are a delightful mix of garlic, butter, honey, and BBQ sauce smothering juicy beef. They’re quick to whip up and perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner!
Let’s be real, who can resist a taco? I love how the sweet and savory flavors come together, and since they’re easy to make, I can enjoy them anytime—no special occasion needed!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: I recommend using sirloin or flank steak for their great flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try chicken breast or even tofu for a plant-based twist.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best here to control the salt levels. If you need a dairy-free option, use olive oil or coconut oil instead. They both add different flavors but work very well!
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a bold flavor. If you’re out of fresh cloves, garlic powder can substitute—just use about half a teaspoon for every clove.
Honey: The sweetness of honey balances the BBQ sauce. Maple syrup or agave nectar can be good substitutes if you want a vegan option.
BBQ Sauce: Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauces. Sweet, smoky, or spicy varieties can change the flavor profile. You can even make your own if you have the ingredients on hand!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Beef in Tacos?
Cooking the beef just right is key to tasty tacos! Here’s how to make sure it’s tender and flavorful:
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the beef. This helps to sear the meat quickly and lock in juices.
- Avoid overcooking! Thinly sliced beef cooks fast, so keep a close eye on it. 4-5 minutes is usually perfect.
- Let the beef simmer in the honey and BBQ sauce for a few minutes, which allows for flavor absorption while thickening the sauce.
With these tips, you’ll have delicious, juicy beef tacos every time! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Easy Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembling the Tacos:
- 6 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream or chipotle mayo
- 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh chives or green onions (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This entire recipe takes about 20 minutes! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and cooking the beef and another 10 minutes assembling the tacos. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Melt the Butter:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Allow it to melt and become bubbly, giving it a rich, delicious flavor.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Be sure to sauté it for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until it’s fragrant but not burnt. Be careful—it cooks quickly!
3. Cook the Beef:
Add the thinly sliced beef to the pan and season it with salt and pepper. Stir it around and let it cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until the beef is nicely browned and cooked through. You want it tender and juicy!
4. Add the Sweet and Savory Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the honey and BBQ sauce. Stir everything together so that the beef is evenly coated. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While the beef is cooking, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until they are soft and pliable. This helps them hold all that delicious filling!
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to build your tacos! Take a tortilla and add a generous scoop of the beef mixture in the middle. Don’t be afraid to pile it on!
7. Add Toppings:
Spoon a little bit of sour cream or chipotle mayo on top of the beef for a creamy finish. Then, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. The heat from the beef will help melt the cheese a bit.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finish off your tacos by garnishing with chopped fresh chives or green onions. This adds a nice pop of color and flavor!
9. Enjoy Your Tacos:
Serve these tacos immediately while they’re hot and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors. Perfect for sharing, or enjoy them all yourself!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! While beef sirloin or flank steak works wonderfully, you can also use chicken breast, shrimp, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly based on the meat or ingredient you choose.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like a kick of heat, try adding some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture while it’s cooking. You can also use spicy BBQ sauce or add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to spice things up!
Can I Make the Beef Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef filling ahead of time! Cook it as instructed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it in a skillet before assembling your tacos.
What Are the Best Ways to Store Leftover Tacos?
If you have leftover tacos, it’s best to store the components separately. Keep the beef filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and store the tortillas wrapped in foil or an airtight bag. Reheat the beef before assembling again for fresh-tasting tacos!
