These Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos are packed with flavor and a hint of sweetness. The blend of garlic, butter, and BBQ sauce makes the beef super juicy and tasty!
Honestly, you’ll want to make extra just to enjoy the delightful smell while cooking. I love piling on some fresh toppings—lettuce, cheese, and maybe a little avocado. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: I suggest flank steak for its tenderness, but sirloin works well too. If you’re looking for a lighter option, shredded chicken or even grilled veggies can be great substitutes!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best, as it allows you to control saltiness. You could use olive oil or avocado oil if you’re dairy-free, but the flavor will change slightly.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce for a personal touch. If you’re avoiding sugar, try a low-sugar or homemade version. Sweet and smoky sauces complement the beef nicely.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness, but you could use maple syrup or agave for a vegan option. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference!
How Do You Get Juicy Beef for Tacos?
Achieving juicy beef tacos relies on proper cooking techniques. Start by using high heat to quickly sear the meat, trapping the juices inside. Here’s how:
- Heat your skillet well before adding the oil.
- Cook the beef in small batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. This ensures even cooking.
- Season with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance flavor.
- Don’t overcook—just a few minutes until browned is all you need for a tender result.
For flavor depth, stir in the garlic right away to cook briefly before adding the beef. And remember to stir in the BBQ honey sauce at the end, which keeps the beef moist and flavorful!
How to Make Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite variety)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 6 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce (optional)
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack, optional)
For the Spicy Mayo Drizzle:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp sriracha or hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp lime juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time, for a total of approximately 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the BBQ Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix the BBQ sauce and honey until well combined. This will create a sweet and flavorful sauce for your beef. Set it aside for later!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with the olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Cook the Beef:
Add the thinly sliced beef to the skillet, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook while stirring occasionally until it’s browned and just cooked through, about 4-6 minutes. This will ensure your beef is tender and juicy!
4. Add the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium, then add the remaining butter and pour in your BBQ honey sauce. Stir well to coat the beef evenly and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While the beef is cooking, warm your tortillas. You can do this in a clean, dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds on each side or microwave them for about 15 seconds until they’re pliable.
6. Make the Spicy Mayo Drizzle:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha (or your favorite hot sauce), and lime juice. This will add a delicious kick to your tacos!
7. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Place a generous amount of the garlic butter honey BBQ beef on each tortilla. Top with chopped red onion, fresh cilantro, shredded lettuce, and cheese if you like.
8. Drizzle and Serve:
Finish off each taco with a drizzle of the spicy mayo. Serve immediately and enjoy the sweet, garlicky, smoky flavors!
This recipe yields about 6 tacos and is perfect for a quick flavorful dinner or as a fun appetizer at gatherings. Enjoy!
FAQ for Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While flank steak or sirloin works best, you can also use chuck steak or even ground beef if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure it’s thoroughly cooked.
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best quality, keep the beef separate from the tortillas and toppings to avoid sogginess. Reheat the beef gently on the stove or microwave before assembling the tacos again.
Can I Make These Tacos Spicy?
Definitely! You can add more sriracha to the spicy mayo for extra heat or mix chopped jalapeños into the beef while cooking. Adding hot sauce as a topping is another great way to adjust the spice level to your taste!
Can I Prepare the Beef Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can cook the beef in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently before serving to retain its moisture and flavors. This makes for an easy weeknight meal!
