Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos

A Flavorful Twist on Classic Tacos

Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos combine rich, savory beef with a sweet and smoky honey BBQ sauce, all infused with a hint of garlic butter. These tacos offer an indulgent balance of flavors, making them perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a fun taco night at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold and unique flavor: A mix of sweet, smoky, buttery, and garlicky goodness.
• Easy to prepare: Simple ingredients with an easy step-by-step process.
• Versatile: Can be customized with different toppings and tortillas.
• Great for gatherings: A crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to scale up.

Ingredients

For the Beef:

• 1.5 lbs beef (chuck roast, flank steak, or ground beef)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

For the Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the Tacos:

• 8 small flour or corn tortillas
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/2 cup coleslaw mix or shredded lettuce
• Lime wedges for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Beef

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Season the beef with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, and garlic powder.
• Sear the beef for 3-4 minutes per side if using whole cuts, or until browned if using ground beef.
• If using a roast or steak, shred or slice the beef after cooking and set aside.

2. Make the Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Sauce

• In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Stir in honey, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes.
• Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

3. Combine the Beef and Sauce

• Return the cooked beef to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
• Let simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

4. Assemble the Tacos

• Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds.
• Fill each tortilla with the honey BBQ beef mixture.
• Sprinkle shredded cheese, red onion, and cilantro over the top.
• Add a handful of coleslaw mix or shredded lettuce.
• Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein options: Swap beef for shredded chicken, pork, or even shrimp.
• Heat level: Increase spice with extra chili flakes, jalapeños, or hot sauce.
• Tortillas: Use hard taco shells for added crunch or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
• Dairy-free: Skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 4 servings (2 tacos per person).
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Storage: Store leftover beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
• Freezing: The cooked beef mixture can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make these tacos spicier?

Increase the red pepper flakes, add diced jalapeños, or drizzle with hot sauce.

Can I use a slow cooker for the beef?

Yes! Cook the seasoned beef on low for 6-8 hours with the sauce ingredients. Shred and mix before serving.

What type of BBQ sauce works best?

A smoky or spicy BBQ sauce complements the honey and garlic flavors well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the beef and sauce in advance and store them in the fridge until ready to assemble.

What are the best toppings for these tacos?

Avocado slices, sour cream, pickled onions, or crumbled queso fresco work well.

Are these tacos gluten-free?

Use corn tortillas and a gluten-free BBQ sauce to make them gluten-free.

What side dishes pair well with these tacos?

Mexican rice, black beans, grilled corn, or a fresh avocado salad.

Can I make these tacos with chicken instead of beef?

Yes! Cook chicken breasts or thighs the same way, then shred or slice them before mixing with the sauce.

How do I keep the tortillas from breaking?

Warm them before filling and avoid overstuffing to prevent tearing.

Can I make this in the oven instead?

Yes! Roast seasoned beef at 325°F for about 2-3 hours until tender, then shred and toss in the sauce.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos are a delicious twist on classic tacos, offering the perfect combination of sweet, smoky, buttery, and savory flavors. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or a fun gathering, these tacos are sure to impress. Try different toppings and variations to make them your own!

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