Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I find these tacos to be a perfect blend of flavors that satisfy my cravings for something both hearty and flavorful. The garlic butter adds depth, the honey brings a touch of sweetness, and the BBQ sauce provides a smoky tang that ties everything together. Plus, the creamy sauce drizzled on top adds a luxurious finish that makes each bite irresistible.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 lb ground beef or beef strips
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/4 cup honey
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1/3 cup BBQ sauce
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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6 soft taco tortillas
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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Fresh cilantro (optional)
For the creamy taco sauce:
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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2 tablespoons honey
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1 tablespoon BBQ sauce
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Directions
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In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
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Add the ground beef or beef strips to the skillet. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
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Stir in the honey, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the beef evenly.
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In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, honey, BBQ sauce, and smoked paprika. Whisk until smooth to create the creamy taco sauce.
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Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave until pliable.
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Spoon the beef mixture evenly onto each tortilla. Drizzle the creamy taco sauce over the beef.
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Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
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Serve immediately and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields approximately 6 tacos, serving about 3 people. Preparation time is around 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 15 minutes, totaling approximately 25 minutes.
Variations
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Protein Options: I sometimes use shredded chicken or pork instead of beef for a different flavor profile.
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Spice Level: To add some heat, I include a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
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Cheese Choices: While cheddar is classic, I also enjoy using pepper jack or a Mexican blend for added flavor.
Storage/Reheating
I store any leftover beef mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. The creamy taco sauce can be stored separately in the refrigerator and used within a week.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, I often substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly and seasoned well.
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
Absolutely. I add a dash of hot sauce or some chopped chili peppers to the beef mixture to increase the heat.
Can I prepare the beef mixture ahead of time?
Yes, I often cook the beef mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, I simply reheat it and assemble the tacos.
What sides pair well with these tacos?
I like to serve these tacos with a side of Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh salad to complement the flavors.
Can I use store-bought taco shells instead of tortillas?
Certainly. I sometimes use hard taco shells for added crunch, following the same assembly steps.
Conclusion
These Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos are a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare and sure to please. The combination of sweet honey, savory garlic butter, and smoky BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering filling, while the creamy sauce and fresh toppings add the perfect finishing touch. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, these tacos are a delicious choice that I always enjoy making.
Print
Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 tacos (serves 3)
Description
These mouthwatering tacos combine bold garlic butter beef, a sweet BBQ glaze, and a tangy, creamy sauce for a next-level weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Beef Filling:
1 lb ground beef or beef strips
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup honey
⅓ cup BBQ sauce
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
6 soft taco tortillas
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh cilantro (optional)
For the Creamy Taco Sauce:
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon BBQ sauce
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
Cook the Garlic Butter Beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add beef and cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Add Sauce & Simmer:
Stir in honey, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the beef simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the meat.
Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, BBQ sauce, and smoked paprika until smooth.
Warm the Tortillas:
Heat tortillas in a skillet or microwave until soft and pliable.
Assemble Tacos:
Spoon beef into tortillas. Drizzle with creamy taco sauce. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh cilantro.
Serve:
Enjoy immediately with lime wedges or your favorite sides.
Notes
For added heat, stir in cayenne or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
Hard taco shells can be used instead of soft tortillas.
The creamy sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner / Tacos
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American Fusion