There’s nothing like the sweet, smoky smell of steak sizzling over an open flame. If you’re looking for a mouthwatering BBQ appetizer or easy weeknight dinner, these Honey Bourbon Steak Skewers deliver. Tender beef bites are glazed with a sticky-sweet bourbon sauce, grilled until lightly charred, and finished with a quick brush of extra glaze for that irresistible caramelized crust.
Honey Bourbon Steak Skewers
Ingredients for Honey Bourbon Steak Skewers
For the Steak Skewers:
- 1½ pounds sirloin steak (or ribeye), cut into 1½-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Honey Bourbon Glaze:
- ¼ cup honey
- 3 tablespoons bourbon
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
How to Make Honey Bourbon Steak Skewers
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Start by patting the steak cubes dry with paper towels. Dry meat sears better and builds more flavor. Toss the cubes in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until evenly coated. Thread the seasoned steak onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. (If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.)
Step 2: Make the Honey Bourbon Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine the honey, bourbon, soy sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Heat over medium, stirring occasionally, until the mixture simmers and slightly thickens, about 3–5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. If using a grill pan indoors, preheat it until very hot before cooking the skewers.
Step 4: Grill the Steak Skewers
Place the steak skewers directly on the grill grates. Grill for 2–3 minutes per side, turning occasionally to get a nice sear on all sides. Use a meat thermometer if you want precise doneness — aim for 135°F for medium-rare or 145°F for medium.
Step 5: Glaze and Finish
During the last minute of cooking, brush the steak skewers generously with the honey bourbon glaze. Let the glaze caramelize slightly on the grill, flipping the skewers as needed for even coverage. Remove from the grill and brush with extra glaze if you like.
Step 6: Serve
Sprinkle the finished skewers with chopped parsley and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot, with any leftover glaze on the side for dipping. These skewers are great on their own or alongside your favorite BBQ sides!