These Easy Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos are a tasty treat! Juicy beef, sweet honey, and a touch of garlic come together in a warm tortilla for a delightful meal.
Who doesn’t love tacos? I love to pile on my favorite toppings and have a little taco party at home! These are so simple to make, they’ll be your go-to for busy nights.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: I recommend using flank steak or sirloin for tenderness and flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using chicken or even shredded jackfruit for a vegetarian option.
Butter: While I love the richness that butter adds, you can substitute with olive oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version. These alternatives still provide great flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a wonderful aroma, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder works too! Just use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder in place of the minced garlic.
Honey: If you need a vegan option, maple syrup or agave syrup can replace honey without compromising too much flavor. It will still be sweet and delicious!
BBQ Sauce: Feel free to use your favorite brand. You might also try making your own with ketchup and a bit of vinegar and spices for a more personalized taste!
How Can I Cook the Beef Just Right?
Cooking the beef properly is crucial to keep it tender and juicy. Here are some steps to follow:
- Make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the beef. This helps to sear the meat quickly, locking in juices.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if needed. This allows for even browning.
- Cook until it’s browned on the outside but still a little pink inside; this keeps it tender.
- Letting the beef rest for a minute after cooking can also enhance juiciness.
With these tips, you’re on your way to making the best Easy Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos that everyone will enjoy!
Easy Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/3 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembly:
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: sour cream or chipotle mayo for drizzling
Estimated Time to Prepare:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking. In total, you’ll be enjoying these delicious tacos in about 25 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by taking a medium bowl and combining the thinly sliced beef with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix it well to ensure every piece is seasoned. Set this aside for a moment.
2. Brown the Beef:
Now, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned beef. Cook the beef for about 4-5 minutes until it’s browned and just cooked through. After cooking, carefully remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant and bubbly. Then, stir in the honey and BBQ sauce until everything is well combined and forms a glossy sauce.
4. Coat the Beef:
Return the cooked beef back into the skillet and toss it well to coat evenly in that delicious garlic butter honey BBQ sauce. Allow it to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm everything through and meld the flavors.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While the beef is cooking, take the tortillas and warm them. You can do this in a dry pan over low heat for a few seconds on each side or pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds until they’re soft and pliable.
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Take a tortilla and place a layer of sliced red cabbage on each one. Then, add a generous scoop of the saucy beef mixture on top.
7. Finish with Garnishes:
If you’d like, you can drizzle some sour cream or chipotle mayo on top. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh chopped cilantro for that extra burst of flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Easy Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos immediately and enjoy every flavorful bite!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the beef with chicken, pork, or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken and shrimp will cook faster than beef.
Are There Any Vegan Options for This Recipe?
Yes! For a vegan twist, try using sautéed mushrooms or jackfruit as the base. Replace the butter with vegan butter or olive oil, and make sure to use a vegan BBQ sauce.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The tortillas are best when fresh, but you can wrap them tightly and store them separately in the fridge. Reheat the beef gently in a skillet or microwave.
What Toppings Can I Use Besides Cabbage and Cilantro?
Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Some great options include diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, fresh tomatoes, shredded cheese, or a squeeze of lime. Choose whatever suits your taste!
