When you’re craving bold, sweet, and savory flavors all in one bite, these Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos are here to deliver! Juicy ground beef is cooked in a rich honey-garlic butter glaze with a smoky BBQ kick. This recipe is perfect for taco night or any time you want a quick and flavorful dinner that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love These Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
- Sweet and smoky balance: Honey and BBQ sauce bring a delicious balance of sweetness and smoky spice.
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Top these tacos with your favorite toppings to make them your own.
- Great for a crowd: Perfect for family dinners, parties, or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
For the Beef Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Tacos
- 8 small tortillas (corn or flour)
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
- Sour cream
- Cilantro, for garnish
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drain any excess grease and set the beef aside in a bowl.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Honey and BBQ Sauce
Stir in the honey, BBQ sauce, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly and combine the flavors.
Step 4: Combine the Beef and Sauce
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, stirring to coat it evenly in the sauce. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes until heated through.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Spoon the saucy beef mixture into each tortilla. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, and a sprinkle of cilantro.
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
These tacos are delicious on their own, but here are some sides and accompaniments to complete your meal:
- Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice
- Black beans or refried beans
- Chips and salsa or guacamole
- Grilled corn on the cob
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
- Use your favorite BBQ sauce: A smoky or spicy BBQ sauce adds great depth to the flavors.
- Adjust the spice level: Add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne if you like it spicier.
- Don’t skip the garlic butter: It’s the base of the sauce and adds richness to the dish.
- Toast the tortillas: Lightly toasting the tortillas in a skillet adds texture and enhances the flavor.
How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigerator: Store leftover beef in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the cooked beef mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the beef in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or BBQ sauce to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken are great leaner alternatives and pair well with the honey BBQ flavors.
Can I make these tacos gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free corn tortillas and ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free.
What toppings go well with these tacos?
In addition to the listed toppings, try adding avocado slices, pickled jalapeños, or crumbled queso fresco for extra flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos are a fun and flavorful twist on classic tacos. The combination of sweet, smoky, and buttery flavors makes them irresistible, and they’re quick enough to whip up for any occasion. Whether it’s taco night or a casual dinner party, these tacos are sure to impress!
If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your thoughts or photos in the comments below or on Pinterest—don’t forget to tag me!
More Taco Recipes to Try:
- Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Lime Slaw
- Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos
- Crispy Baja Fish Tacos
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 1 Taco):
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 18g
- Carbs: 20g
- Fat: 15g
Enjoy every sweet and savory bite! 🌮