Tender, juicy beef glazed with sweet honey BBQ sauce, smothered in garlic butter, and tucked into warm, crispy taco shells—these Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos are the perfect mix of smoky, savory, and sweet. The buttery richness and sticky-sweet barbecue glaze make each bite an irresistible flavor explosion.
Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner or a fun game-day spread, these tacos will steal the show. Quick to make and customizable with your favorite toppings, they’re an upgrade from your usual taco night and guaranteed to have everyone asking for seconds.
What Kind of Beef Should I Use?
Choosing the right beef is key to these tacos. A tender cut like flank steak or brisket works beautifully because it absorbs the honey BBQ and garlic butter flavors while staying juicy. Slow-cooked shredded beef is also a great option if you’re aiming for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
Beef
The star of the show—choose a tender cut that holds up well to slow cooking or grilling. Beef adds the hearty, savory bite that pairs perfectly with the sweet and garlicky sauce.
Honey BBQ Sauce
A rich, sweet glaze that balances the beef’s smoky flavor. The honey adds natural sweetness while the barbecue sauce provides a tangy kick.
Garlic Butter
The secret to richness and depth of flavor. Garlic butter seeps into the beef, giving it a luscious, buttery finish.
Corn Tortillas
They add that crisp bite and slightly nutty flavor. Warm them up to make them pliable and to bring out their aroma.
Fresh Cilantro
A pop of freshness to cut through the rich flavors. Sprinkle generously before serving.
Queso Fresco or Cotija Cheese
Adds a creamy, salty balance that complements the sweet and savory beef.
Lime Wedges
A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the overall flavor, adding a hint of tang that ties everything together.

How To Make the Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
Step 1: Marinate the Beef in Honey BBQ and Garlic Butter
Whisk together honey BBQ sauce, melted garlic butter, salt, and pepper. Coat the beef generously, letting it marinate for at least 30 minutes. This ensures every bite is infused with sweet, smoky, and buttery goodness.
Step 2: Sear or Grill the Beef
For a juicy, slightly charred flavor, sear the beef on a hot skillet or grill. Cook until the outside caramelizes, locking in the marinade’s flavors. For shredded beef, slow-cook until tender, then toss it back in the pan with extra garlic butter.
Step 3: Warm and Crisp the Tortillas
Heat corn tortillas on a dry skillet or over an open flame for that slightly crispy edge and warm, pliable texture. This makes them strong enough to hold the saucy beef without tearing.
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
Layer the beef into the tortillas, letting the honey BBQ glaze drip slightly for that mouthwatering look. Sprinkle with crumbled queso fresco or Cotija cheese, add chopped fresh cilantro, and finish with a drizzle of extra garlic butter if you’re feeling indulgent.
Step 5: Add a Bright Finish
Serve with lime wedges on the side. A quick squeeze over the tacos enhances the flavors with a fresh, zesty kick.
Serving and Storing Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
These tacos are best enjoyed fresh off the skillet when the beef is warm and juicy, and the tortillas are slightly crisped. If you’re serving a crowd, keep the beef warm in a slow cooker on low, and assemble the tacos right before serving to avoid soggy shells.
For leftovers, store the beef separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet with a splash of extra honey BBQ sauce or garlic butter to restore its juicy texture. Warm the tortillas fresh for the best flavor and crunch.
What to Serve With Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos?
Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
Creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy—this side pairs perfectly with the smoky-sweet tacos.
Cilantro Lime Rice
A zesty and fragrant rice that balances the richness of the beef.
Black Bean and Corn Salad
Light, refreshing, and slightly tangy, it adds a colorful and healthy touch.
Guacamole with Lime
The creamy avocado dip provides a cool contrast to the bold BBQ flavors.
Pickled Red Onions
Add a sharp, tangy bite that cuts through the sweetness.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
A mildly sweet, caramelized side that complements the honey BBQ glaze.
Jalapeño Poppers
For those who like extra heat, these crispy, cheesy bites are a fun addition.
Homemade Salsa Verde
Bright and tangy, perfect for spooning over the tacos or enjoying with chips.
Want More Taco Ideas?
If you love these Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:
• Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce for a seafood twist with a spicy kick.
• Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken if you crave crunchy, golden bites.
• Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken for a rich, cheesy, slow-cooked option.
• Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gravy when you need ultimate comfort food.
• Jalapeño Popper Deviled Eggs for a spicy appetizer to kick off taco night.
Save This Pin For Later
Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.
Tried it with a twist? Maybe a splash of hot sauce or a smoky chipotle drizzle? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.
Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

Mouthwatering Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Beef Tacos
Equipment
- Skillet or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds beef (flank steak or brisket, or shredded beef)
- ½ cup honey BBQ sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 8 corn tortillas
- ½ cup queso fresco or Cotija cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 wedges lime for serving
Instructions
- Mix honey BBQ sauce, melted butter, garlic, salt, and pepper. Marinate beef for 30 minutes.
- Sear or grill beef until caramelized and fully cooked.
- Warm tortillas in a skillet or over an open flame.
- Assemble tacos with beef, cheese, cilantro, and an optional drizzle of garlic butter.
- Serve with lime wedges for a fresh, zesty finish.