Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?

Absolutely! Just make sure it’s a honey or sweet-style BBQ sauce to match the flavor profile.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the beef mixture in advance and reheat when ready to serve. Just warm your tortillas fresh for the best texture.

What’s the best kind of beef to use?

Ground beef is easiest, but you can use shredded beef (like leftover pot roast or slow-cooked brisket) for a richer flavor.

Are these tacos spicy?

Not by default—they’re more sweet and savory. Add chili flakes or hot sauce if you want some heat.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes! Use a dairy-free butter alternative and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free version.

What toppings go best with this flavor combo?

Crisp lettuce, avocado, shredded cheese, lime juice, and sour cream all complement the sweet and buttery BBQ beef.

Do I have to use honey?

Nope! The BBQ sauce has sweetness already. The honey is optional and adds a little extra glaze and flavor depth.

Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef (or shredded beef, if preferred)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup honey BBQ sauce
1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
8 small flour or corn tortillas
Toppings of choice: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, avocado, sour cream, cilantro, lime wedges

Instructions

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
Push the beef to one side of the skillet. Add the butter to the empty side and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Stir the garlic butter into the beef. Add the honey BBQ sauce and honey (if using). Mix well until the beef is evenly coated. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
While the beef simmers, warm your tortillas in a skillet, microwave, or directly over a gas burner for a charred edge.
Spoon the saucy beef into each tortilla. Top with your favorite fixings—lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, avocado, a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
Serve immediately while hot and gooey!

Notes

Swap proteins, spice it up, or go low-carb—these tacos are endlessly versatile. Leftovers reheat perfectly, and the beef mixture can even be frozen for future meals.

Author: Clara
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tacos
Calories: 520
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 640mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: beef tacos, honey BBQ, garlic butter, easy dinner, taco night