Description

Smoky Bacon Bourbon Beef Bites are the ultimate party appetizer, packed with smoky, savory flavors and a touch of sweetness from bourbon and brown sugar. These tender beef cubes are marinated in a rich bourbon glaze, then seared in bacon fat and baked to perfection. Crispy bacon pieces and fresh green onions make them even more irresistible. Perfect for game day, gatherings, or any occasion where delicious bites are needed!

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb beef sirloin, cut into bite-sized cubes
6 slices bacon, chopped
¼ cup bourbon
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp salt
2 tbsp olive oil
2 green onions, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cook Bacon: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon from the skillet and drain on paper towels, leaving some bacon fat in the skillet.
Marinate Beef: In a bowl, mix bourbon, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Add the beef cubes to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
Sear Beef: In the same skillet with bacon fat, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add marinated beef and sear on all sides until browned (about 5 minutes).
Combine & Bake: Add crispy bacon to the skillet, mix it with the beef, and transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Bake for 10-12 minutes until beef reaches your desired level of doneness.
Garnish & Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve hot.

Notes

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Adjust Heat: For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
Substitute Bourbon: If you prefer not to use bourbon, you can replace it with apple juice or chicken broth for a similar depth of flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Appetizer, Party Snack, Beef
Method: Stovetop, Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 4-5 beef bites)
Calories: 270 kcal
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: Smoky Bacon Bourbon Beef Bites, Bourbon Beef, Party Appetizer, Bacon Beef Bites, Easy Beef Bites, Sweet Savory Beef, Bacon Appetizers, Game Day Recipes, Beef Bites Recipe