Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos

A Taco You Won’t Forget

Hey there, friends! Lisa here, and I’m so excited to share one of my family’s absolute favorite weeknight dinners: Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos. This isn’t your average taco; it’s a mouthwatering twist on the classic, combining the best of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors in every single bite.

The star of the show is definitely the beef, slathered in a delicious garlic butter honey BBQ sauce. This recipe is all about creating the perfect taco, and I’m going to walk you through every step, from choosing the right beef to loading it up with all the best toppings. I’ll also share some fun variations, serving suggestions, and all my tried-and-true tips for taco success. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Choosing Your Beef: Ground vs. Steak

Okay, let’s talk beef! The foundation of any good taco is, well, the good beef. For these Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos, you’ve got a couple of fantastic options: ground beef or steak. Both bring something different to the table, so let’s break it down.

Ground Beef:

Ground beef is a classic for a reason: it’s budget-friendly and cooks up quickly. It’s also great at soaking up all that amazing garlic butter honey BBQ flavor. When choosing ground beef, pay attention to the fat content. A leaner ground beef (like 90/10) will have less grease, but it can also be a little drier. An 80/20 blend will be more flavorful and juicy, but you’ll want to drain off the excess fat after cooking. Trust me, nobody wants greasy tacos!

Is ground beef the only option for these tacos? What about using steak?

Definitely not! Steak is another amazing option for these tacos. It adds a bit of a gourmet touch and a different texture that some might prefer. The key is to choose a tender cut that can stand up to a quick marinade and cook time.

Steak:

If you’re going the steak route, I recommend using flank steak or skirt steak. These cuts are relatively thin, which means they’ll cook quickly and evenly. Plus, they have tons of flavor! Before cooking, I like to marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) to really tenderize it and infuse it with flavor. A simple marinade of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and a little bit of brown sugar works wonders.

Cooking Methods for Steak:

You can either pan-fry or grill your steak. For pan-frying, heat a little oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, until it’s cooked to your desired doneness. For grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the steak for about the same amount of time.

Alternative Protein Options:

And hey, if you’re feeling adventurous, you could even try shredded beef! A slow-cooked chuck roast, shredded and tossed in the garlic butter honey BBQ sauce, would be absolutely divine. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you and your family.

The Secret’s in the Garlic Butter

Alright, let’s get to the real magic: the garlic butter! This isn’t just any garlic butter; it’s the key to taking these tacos from good to absolutely incredible. The garlic butter infuses the beef with a rich, savory flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the honey BBQ sauce.

Best Type of Butter:

First things first, let’s talk butter. I always use salted butter for this recipe because I love the way the salt enhances the other flavors. But if you prefer unsalted butter, that’s totally fine too. Just be sure to add a pinch of salt to the garlic butter to taste.

Preventing Burnt Garlic:

Now, the key to perfect garlic butter is to cook the garlic gently. Nobody wants burnt garlic – it’s bitter and unpleasant. I like to melt the butter over medium-low heat, then add the garlic and cook it until it’s fragrant and softened, but not browned. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it and stir it frequently to prevent burning.

Can I use jarred minced garlic, or does it have to be fresh? What difference does it make?

I highly recommend using fresh garlic if possible. The flavor is just so much better and more pronounced. Jarred minced garlic can work in a pinch, but it often lacks the same intensity. If you do use jarred garlic, I would suggest using a little extra to compensate for the milder flavor. The difference comes from the oils released when fresh garlic is minced, versus the preserved state of jarred garlic.

Garlic Types & Flavor Profiles:

You can even experiment with different types of garlic! Roasted garlic, for example, has a sweeter, more mellow flavor that would be amazing in this garlic butter. To roast garlic, simply cut off the top of a head of garlic, drizzle it with olive oil, wrap it in foil, and bake it at 400°F for about 45 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and golden brown. Let it cool slightly, then squeeze out the roasted garlic and add it to your butter.

Herbs to Enhance the Flavor:

And don’t be afraid to get creative with herbs! A little bit of fresh cilantro or thyme would add a lovely herbaceous note to the garlic butter. Simply chop the herbs finely and stir them in at the end.

Making Garlic Butter in Bulk:

Here’s a pro tip: you can make garlic butter in bulk and store it in the fridge for up to a week. That way, you’ll have it on hand whenever you need a quick flavor boost. Just melt a big batch of butter, add a bunch of minced garlic, and cook it until fragrant. Then, pour it into a jar or container and let it cool completely before refrigerating. This trick is a lifesaver during busy weeknights!

Crafting the Honey BBQ Sauce

Okay, next up is the honey BBQ sauce. This is what brings the sweetness, the smokiness, and that irresistible BBQ flavor to our Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos. You’ve got two options here: you can use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce, or you can make your own from scratch.

Store-Bought BBQ Sauce:

If you’re going the store-bought route, look for a honey BBQ sauce that you really love. There are so many different brands and varieties out there, so take some time to find one that suits your taste. I personally like a sauce that’s not too sweet and has a good balance of smokiness and tang.

Homemade BBQ Sauce:

But if you’re feeling ambitious, I highly recommend making your own BBQ sauce from scratch. It’s surprisingly easy, and you can customize it to your exact preferences. Plus, it just tastes so much better than anything you can buy in a bottle.

Basic Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe:

Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:

• 1 cup tomato paste
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Simply combine all of the ingredients in a saucepan and simmer over low heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

What can I use instead of honey BBQ sauce if I don’t have any on hand? Or what if I prefer a less sweet option?

If you don’t have honey BBQ sauce on hand, you can use regular BBQ sauce and add a tablespoon or two of honey to sweeten it up. Or, if you prefer a less sweet option, you can use a smoky BBQ sauce or even a chipotle BBQ sauce. Just experiment and see what you like best!

Adjusting Sweetness, Smokiness, and Spice:

The beauty of making your own BBQ sauce is that you can control the sweetness, smokiness, and spice levels. If you want it sweeter, add more honey or brown sugar. For more smokiness, add more smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke. And if you want to kick up the heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chili flakes.

Adjusting Sauce Consistency:

If your sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a little water or apple cider vinegar. If it’s too thin, you can simmer it for longer to reduce it. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (a mixture of cornstarch and cold water) to thicken it quickly.

Assembling Your Tacos: Tortilla Time!

Alright, we’ve got our delicious beef and our amazing sauce. Now it’s time to talk tortillas! Choosing the right tortilla is crucial for taco success. A good tortilla should be soft, pliable, and able to hold all of those delicious fillings without tearing.

Flour, Corn, or Gluten-Free:

You’ve got three main options here: flour tortillas, corn tortillas, or gluten-free tortillas. Flour tortillas are the most common and are typically larger and more pliable than corn tortillas. Corn tortillas have a more distinct flavor and are a bit more traditional for Mexican tacos. And gluten-free tortillas are a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

What tortillas work best for this recipe? I always end up with soggy or torn tortillas.

For these Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos, I personally prefer flour tortillas. They’re soft, they’re pliable, and they hold up really well to all of that juicy filling. But if you prefer corn tortillas, go for it! Just make sure to warm them properly to prevent them from tearing.

Warming Your Tortillas:

Warming your tortillas is essential. It makes them more pliable and prevents them from cracking or tearing. Here are a few different methods you can use:

• Dry Skillet: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Warm each tortilla for about 15-20 seconds per side, until it’s soft and pliable.
• Microwave: Wrap a stack of tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 30 seconds.
• Oven: Wrap a stack of tortillas in foil and bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

Regional Origins of Tortillas:

Did you know that flour tortillas are more common in Northern Mexico, while corn tortillas are more popular in Central Mexico? It’s fun to learn about the history and traditions behind different foods!

Softening Corn Tortillas Quickly:

Here’s a quick tip for softening corn tortillas: lightly dampen a paper towel, wrap the tortillas in the damp towel, and microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This will steam the tortillas and make them nice and pliable.

Tortilla Size:

The size of your tortillas will depend on how big you want your tacos to be. For smaller tacos, use 6-inch tortillas. For larger tacos, use 8-inch or 10-inch tortillas.

Toppings That Take It to the Next Level

Okay, now for the fun part: the toppings! This is where you can really get creative and customize your Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos to your liking. I like to offer a variety of fresh, flavorful toppings so everyone can build their perfect taco.

What kind of cheese goes best with these tacos? Can I add extra vegetables?

Absolutely! Here are some of my favorite toppings:

Vegetables:

• Shredded Lettuce: Adds a nice crunch and freshness.
• Diced Tomatoes: Adds a juicy burst of flavor.
• Diced Onions: Adds a sharp, pungent bite.
• Pickled Onions: Pickled onions add a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that complements the richness of the beef. They’re super easy to make at home – just soak sliced onions in a mixture of vinegar, water, sugar, and salt for a few hours.
• Shredded Cabbage: For extra crunch and texture.
• Radishes: Thinly sliced radishes add a peppery kick.
• Pico de Gallo: A classic Mexican salsa made with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños.
• Avocado Crema: A creamy, cool sauce made with avocado, sour cream, lime juice, and cilantro.

Cheeses:

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A classic choice that melts beautifully.
• Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese: A mild, creamy cheese that pairs well with the other flavors.
• Cotija: A crumbly, salty Mexican cheese that adds a nice tangy flavor.
• Pepper Jack: Adds a bit of spice and creaminess.
• Crumbled Goat Cheese: For a tangy and unique flavor twist.

Sauces:

• Sour Cream: Adds a cool, creamy tang.
• Guacamole: A must-have for any taco night!
• Chipotle Mayo: Adds a smoky, spicy kick.
• Sriracha Crema: For those who like it hot!
• Cilantro-Lime Dressing: A refreshing, tangy dressing that brightens up the flavors.

Balancing Textures:

When choosing your toppings, it’s important to balance the textures. You want a mix of crunchy, creamy, and smooth elements to create a really satisfying taco experience. For example, you might pair creamy guacamole with crunchy shredded cabbage and juicy diced tomatoes.

Spice It Up (or Tone It Down)

Not everyone loves the same level of spice, so it’s important to be able to adjust the heat in these Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos to suit different preferences. Whether you like it mild or fiery, there are plenty of ways to customize the spice level.

How do I make these tacos spicier without ruining the flavor for everyone else? What if I don’t like spicy food; how can I make them milder?

For the Spice Lovers:

If you want to add some heat, here are a few options:

• Jalapeños: Add diced jalapeños to the beef filling or use pickled jalapeños as a topping.
• Serranos: Serrano peppers are hotter than jalapeños, so use them sparingly if you’re sensitive to heat.
• Habaneros: Habanero peppers are very hot, so use them with caution! A little bit goes a long way.
• Hot Sauce: Drizzle your favorite hot sauce over the tacos. I personally love a good chipotle hot sauce or a habanero hot sauce.

Specific Types of Chili Peppers:

Experiment with different types of chili peppers to find your favorite flavor and heat level. Each pepper has a unique flavor profile, so it’s fun to try them all!

Removing Seeds and Membranes:

If you want to reduce the heat of a chili pepper, you can remove the seeds and membranes before dicing it. The seeds and membranes contain most of the capsaicin, which is the compound that makes peppers spicy.

For the Spice-Averse:

If you don’t like spicy food, here are a few ways to tone down the heat:

• Omit the Cayenne Pepper: If you’re making your own BBQ sauce, simply leave out the cayenne pepper.
• Use Mild Toppings: Stick to mild toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and sour cream.
• Add a Cooling Element: A dollop of sour cream or avocado can help to cool down the heat.

Making a Separate, Spicier Sauce:

If you want to make a spicier sauce for those who like it hot, you can simply add some extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce to a small bowl of BBQ sauce. This way, everyone can customize their tacos to their own spice level.

Taco Tuesday (and Beyond): Serving Suggestions

These Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos are delicious on their own, but they’re even better when served with some tasty side dishes. Whether you’re hosting a Taco Tuesday party or just looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, here are some of my favorite serving suggestions.

What sides go well with these tacos to make a complete meal? Is there anything I can prepare ahead of time?

Mexican Rice:

A classic side dish that pairs perfectly with tacos. You can make it ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. There are tons of different variations you can try, like Spanish rice or cilantro-lime rice.

Refried Beans:

Another classic side dish that’s easy to make from scratch or use canned beans. Simply heat up the beans and mash them with a fork or potato masher. You can add some cheese, salsa, or sour cream for extra flavor.

Elote (Mexican Street Corn):

Grilled corn on the cob, slathered in mayo, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice. It’s a little messy, but it’s so worth it!

Guacamole & Chips:

A must-have for any Mexican feast. You can make your own guacamole or buy it pre-made. Serve it with tortilla chips for dipping.

Basic Guacamole Recipe:

• 2 ripe avocados
• 1/4 cup diced onion
• 1/4 cup diced tomato
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

Simply mash the avocados with a fork, then stir in the remaining ingredients. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Mexican Salad:

A refreshing salad with a lime vinaigrette. You can use any combination of lettuce, tomatoes, onions, corn, black beans, and avocado. Toss it all together with a simple vinaigrette made with lime juice, olive oil, and a little bit of honey.

Variations on a Theme: Beyond Beef

While I love these Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos with beef, you can easily adapt the recipe to use different proteins or even make them vegetarian. Here are a few variations to try:

Can I use a different type of ground meat? What about vegetarian options?

Shredded Chicken:

Use shredded chicken instead of beef. You can cook the chicken in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for easy shredding. Just toss the shredded chicken in the garlic butter honey BBQ sauce and proceed with the recipe.

Pulled Pork:

Pulled pork is another great option for these tacos. You can use a slow cooker or Instant Pot to cook the pork until it’s tender and easy to shred. Toss the pulled pork in the garlic butter honey BBQ sauce and serve.

Black Beans and Corn:

For a vegetarian option, use a mixture of black beans and corn. Simply sauté the black beans and corn with some diced onions and garlic, then toss them in the garlic butter honey BBQ sauce. Serve with your favorite taco toppings.

Grilled Shrimp:

Grilled shrimp adds a delicious seafood twist to these tacos. Marinate the shrimp in the garlic butter honey BBQ sauce, then grill them until they’re pink and cooked through. Serve with your favorite taco toppings.

Beyond Meat or Other Meat Substitutes:

If you’re looking for a plant-based alternative to beef, you can use Beyond Meat or other meat substitutes. Simply cook the meat substitute according to the package instructions, then toss it in the garlic butter honey BBQ sauce and serve.

Storing and Reheating Like a Pro

So, you’ve made a big batch of these Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos, and now you have leftovers. No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat them properly to maintain flavor and texture.

How do I prevent tortillas from getting soggy? How long can I store the leftover taco filling?

Storing the Taco Components:

To prevent sogginess, it’s best to store the beef filling, tortillas, and toppings separately. Store the beef filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Store the tortillas in a sealed bag or container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. And store the toppings in separate airtight containers in the fridge.

Don’t Refrigerate Assembled Tacos:

I don’t recommend refrigerating assembled tacos, as the tortillas will get soggy and the toppings will wilt.

Reheating the Beef:

You can reheat the beef in a skillet, microwave, or oven. To reheat it in a skillet, simply heat a little oil over medium heat and cook the beef until it’s warmed through. To reheat it in the microwave, simply microwave it for 1-2 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. To reheat it in the oven, spread the beef out on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s warmed through.

Reheating Tortillas:

To reheat tortillas without drying them out, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 15-20 seconds. You can also reheat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 10-15 seconds per side.

FAQs: Troubleshooting Your Tacos

Making tacos is usually pretty straightforward, but sometimes things can go wrong. Here are some common questions and concerns, along with some helpful tips and solutions.

Why is my beef dry?

If your beef is dry, it could be because it’s overcooked or because it doesn’t have enough fat. To prevent dry beef, be sure to cook it to the correct internal temperature and use a cut of beef that has some marbling.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If your sauce is too thin, you can simmer it for longer to reduce it. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (a mixture of cornstarch and cold water) to thicken it quickly. Just be sure to stir the slurry into the sauce gradually to avoid lumps.

My tortillas are sticking to the pan!

If your tortillas are sticking to the pan, it could be because the pan is not hot enough or because the tortillas are too dry. To prevent sticking, use a lightly oiled pan and make sure the pan is hot before adding the tortillas.

How do I keep my toppings fresh?

To keep your toppings fresh, store them in airtight containers in the fridge. This will help to prevent them from drying out or wilting.

Why are my tacos falling apart?

If your tacos are falling apart, it could be because they’re overfilled or because the tortillas are not warmed enough. To prevent falling apart, don’t overfill the tacos and make sure to warm the tortillas properly before filling them.

Conclusion

So there you have it, friends! My recipe for Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos. I promise, these tacos are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and they’re so much fun to make. The combination of the savory garlic butter, the sweet and smoky honey BBQ sauce, and all those delicious toppings is simply irresistible. And by experimenting with different variations, toppings, and serving suggestions, you can create a truly unique and unforgettable taco experience. So gather your family and friends, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy some seriously amazing tacos! Happy cooking!

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