If you’re searching for the ultimate marriage of sweet, smoky, savory, and just the right hint of heat, Smoky Bourbon BBQ Bacon is the answer to your cravings. Imagine thick slices of bacon transformed into irresistibly sticky strips kissed with smokiness, a splash of heady bourbon, and a punchy barbecue glaze. This recipe brings all the flavors you love about backyard cookouts right to your kitchen, creating a snack or side dish that’s gloriously addictive. Whether you’re planning a brunch that wows, a killer burger topping, or just need that unforgettable party appetizer, this is the bacon that will steal the show.

Smoky Bourbon BBQ Bacon Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish comes together with just a handful of everyday ingredients, but each one is essential for capturing the deep, layered taste and texture that makes Smoky Bourbon BBQ Bacon so memorable. By paying attention to quality and using a few fresh pantry staples, you’ll get bacon with bold flavor and irresistible appeal.

Bacon: Thick-cut is best for chew and structure, allowing the glaze to cling beautifully.
Bourbon: Choose a good, mid-shelf bourbon; its caramel and vanilla notes play off the bacon’s saltiness.
BBQ sauce: Go for your favorite bold and smoky variety for extra depth.
Brown sugar: Adds caramelized sweetness and helps the glaze thicken to that luscious, sticky texture.
Smoked paprika: This doubles down on the smokiness and gives a shock of earthy, warm color.
Black pepper: Freshly cracked adds the ideal peppery bite that brightens every slice.
Hot sauce (optional): A dash or two if you like a kick—feel free to adjust to your heat preference.

How to Make Smoky Bourbon BBQ Bacon

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Set an oven-safe wire rack on top and lightly spray it with nonstick spray. This setup lets the fat drip away, so your Smoky Bourbon BBQ Bacon gets perfectly crisp without being greasy.

Step 2: Mix the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, smoked paprika, black pepper, and (if using) hot sauce. The glaze should be thick and syrupy, with a bold aroma that promises good things ahead. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning or heat level—you want a balance of sweet, smoky, and just enough bourbon warmth.

Step 3: Lay Out the Bacon

Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer on the prepared rack. Don’t crowd them; you want space for the heat to circulate and the glaze to hug each strip, ensuring every bit crisps evenly.

Step 4: Brush and Bake

Generously brush each bacon slice with a layer of your Smoky Bourbon BBQ Bacon glaze. Place the bacon in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Then, carefully flip each strip, brush with more glaze, and return to the oven for another 8-10 minutes. Keep a close eye in the last few minutes—the sugars will caramelize quickly, creating those irresistible crispy edges.

Step 5: Cool and Finish

When your bacon is gloriously lacquered and deeply caramelized, transfer it to a clean parchment or a cooling rack to let it set for a few minutes. As it cools, the glaze will firm up and the Smoky Bourbon BBQ Bacon develops a gorgeous glossy crunch with every bite.

How to Serve Smoky Bourbon BBQ Bacon

Garnishes

For extra flair, shower the bacon with sliced scallions, a pinch of chopped fresh parsley, or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds just before serving. The pop of color and freshness makes your Smoky Bourbon BBQ Bacon even more crave-worthy, and a tiny hit of flaked sea salt brings every flavor into focus.

Side Dishes

Pair your Smoky Bourbon BBQ Bacon with classic brunch fare like fluffy scrambled eggs, buttery biscuits, or creamy grits. It also stands out alongside grilled corn on the cob, crisp slaws, or roasted potatoes—the smoky, sweet glaze acts as the ultimate flavor booster.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the bacon as a standout appetizer by threading pieces onto skewers or adding to a charcuterie board with pickles and sharp cheese. Or, chop and sprinkle it into salads, tuck inside burgers, or crown a stack of pancakes—the options for showing off this Smoky Bourbon BBQ Bacon are almost endless!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s rare!), layer the cooled bacon strips between parchment in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days, and the glaze will hold onto its sticky charm without becoming soggy.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze individual slices or a small stack with parchment between each layer. Once frozen solid, transfer to a zipper bag and press out extra air. Smoky Bourbon BBQ Bacon will keep its flavor and texture for about 1 month—just thaw a strip or two as needed for a quick treat.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the bacon on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes. The glaze will re-melt, and the bacon crisps up like it’s fresh. You can also microwave slices for 15-20 seconds if you’re in a hurry, but the oven method keeps the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular-cut bacon instead of thick-cut?

Absolutely! Regular-cut bacon works, but it cooks much faster. Check after 8-10 minutes on the first side and glaze gently to avoid burning. The end result will be crispier and lighter but still deliciously glazed.

Does the alcohol cook out of the bourbon in this recipe?

Most of the alcohol evaporates during baking, leaving behind only the deep, complex flavors of the bourbon. However, a trace amount may remain, so keep that in mind if serving young kids or avoiding alcohol entirely.

Is there a non-alcoholic substitution for bourbon?

You can swap the bourbon for unsweetened apple juice with a tiny splash of vanilla extract. This will keep the glaze rich and flavorful, minus the alcohol content, while still echoing those caramel-y undertones.

How spicy is Smoky Bourbon BBQ Bacon?

The heat is entirely up to you! With just black pepper and your BBQ sauce, it’s gently spicy. Add hot sauce or use a spicy barbecue blend if you’re craving an extra kick. Taste your glaze before brushing, and adjust as needed to match your crowd’s preference.

Can I cook this bacon on the grill instead of in the oven?

Yes, you can! Grill the bacon over indirect heat on a piece of foil or grill mat. Brush with the Smoky Bourbon BBQ glaze as it cooks, flipping once. Watch closely as sugar caramelizes quickly over open heat, but the smoky flavor from the grill is incredible.

Final Thoughts

If you love rich, bold flavors that bring excitement to any meal, you truly have to try Smoky Bourbon BBQ Bacon. It’s the kind of recipe that instantly upgrades anything it touches, sparking “wow” moments at both casual brunches and special gatherings. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your new secret weapon—the hardest part is not eating it all straight from the pan!