These Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos are a yummy blend of flavors! The beef is cooked in a tasty garlic butter and honey BBQ sauce, making every bite super juicy and flavorful.
Who doesn’t love a taco night? I can’t resist loading mine with fresh toppings like cilantro and diced onions. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak or Sirloin: Both cuts work well for these tacos. Flank steak is flavorful and has a great texture, while sirloin is generally more tender. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using chicken or tofu instead!
Butter: I prefer unsalted butter here for better control of saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, you could swap it out for plant-based butter or olive oil.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand for an easy flavor boost. If you’d like to make it healthier, you could go for a low-sugar or homemade BBQ sauce. A sweet and tangy sauce really makes these tacos shine!
Honey: This adds a nice sweetness. If you’re vegan, feel free to substitute with agave syrup or maple syrup for a similar flavor.
Tortillas: I love soft corn tortillas for a traditional touch, but flour tortillas also work great! For a gluten-free option, use corn tortillas or lettuce wraps instead.
How Do You Ensure the Beef is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking the beef just right is key to a delicious taco. Thinly slicing the beef helps it cook quickly and evenly. Here are some steps to guide you:
- First, heat the skillet to medium-high before adding oil and butter. Make sure the skillet is hot to get a good sear on the beef.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. This ensures the beef browns nicely instead of steaming.
- Season the beef before cooking. This builds layers of flavor, so don’t skip the salt, pepper, and paprika!
- Keep an eye on the cooking time. Thin slices of beef will cook fast—typically around 3-4 minutes—and look for a nice brown color.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked beef to enjoy in your tacos every time!
Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for a mild kick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 small soft taco tortillas (corn or flour)
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time. Overall, you’re looking at around 20 minutes from start to finish. Quick and easy, perfect for a busy weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the BBQ Sauce Mixture:
Start by mixing the BBQ sauce and honey together in a small bowl. Stir until they are well combined and set this delicious mixture aside. This sweet and tangy sauce will add a wonderful flavor to your beef!
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and is bubbling, you’re ready to add the beef.
3. Cook the Beef:
Add the thinly sliced beef to the skillet. Season it with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and chili powder (if using). Cook the beef for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through. Make sure not to overcook it to keep it tender!
4. Sauté the Garlic:
Once the beef is cooked, push it to one side of the skillet. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic to the other side. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds or until it becomes fragrant. This will add lots of flavor!
5. Combine and Coat:
Stir the garlic butter into the beef and then pour in the honey BBQ sauce mixture. Toss everything together to ensure the beef is thoroughly coated in the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Warm the Tortillas:
While the beef is finishing up, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until they are soft and pliable. This will make them easier to fold and eat!
7. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to assemble your tacos! Divide the beef mixture evenly among the warm tortillas.
8. Add Toppings and Serve:
Top each taco with diced red onions and fresh cilantro leaves. Don’t forget to serve with lime wedges on the side for that extra zesty kick! Squeeze some lime juice over the top before taking a bite.
Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos! They’re sure to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Another Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While flank steak and sirloin are great choices, you can also use skirt steak or even ground beef if that’s what you have on hand. Just be mindful of cooking times, as different cuts may require adjustments.
How Can I Make These Tacos Spicier?
If you want to add some heat, try increasing the amount of chili powder or adding diced jalapeños to the beef mixture. You can also add a dash of hot sauce after assembling the tacos for an extra kick!
Can I Make the Beef Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef filling in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove over low heat before assembling your tacos for a quick meal!
What Are the Best Toppings for These Tacos?
Besides red onions and cilantro, you can top your tacos with sliced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, or even fresh salsa. Get creative with your favorite toppings to customize your tacos!
