Some steaks are all about the seasoning, while others take things up a notch with a rich, glossy glaze.
Bourbon Glazed Grilled Steak is a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors, giving every bite an incredible depth.
The caramelized bourbon glaze coats the steak with a sticky, flavorful finish, while the grill adds charred smokiness that enhances the richness of the meat.
This dish isn’t just about throwing a steak on the grill—it’s about building layers of flavor. The bourbon glaze blends brown sugar, garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of heat, reducing down to a thick, glossy coating that clings beautifully to the steak. A little butter rounds everything out, adding richness to every bite.
Whether you’re cooking for a weekend barbecue, a special occasion, or simply want to elevate your steak night, this recipe delivers bold flavors that rival any steakhouse. Serve it with simple sides like roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a crisp salad to let the steak shine.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
Steak on its own is great, but a perfectly balanced glaze brings out even more depth in the meat.
- Smoky & Sweet Bourbon Glaze – The natural caramel notes in bourbon pair perfectly with brown sugar, soy sauce, and a hint of spice. This creates a sticky, glossy glaze that enhances every bite.
- Charred, Grilled Perfection – The combination of a hot grill and the glaze caramelizing over the flames locks in juices while adding a slightly crispy exterior.
- Balanced Flavors – The steak stays the star, but the glaze adds layers of sweetness, saltiness, tang, and umami without overpowering.
- Easy but Impressive – While it looks and tastes gourmet, this steak is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it perfect for both casual and special meals.
What You Need to Make This Steak
The right ingredients ensure a perfectly glazed steak with a bold, balanced flavor.
- Steak Choice Matters – Ribeye, strip steak, or filet mignon all work well, but a well-marbled cut like ribeye enhances the glaze’s depth.
- Bourbon for Depth – The alcohol burns off, leaving behind smoky caramel notes that balance the sweetness of the glaze.
- Brown Sugar for Caramelization – Helps the glaze thicken and creates a slightly crispy exterior on the steak.
- Soy Sauce for Umami – Adds depth and enhances the meaty flavors. A splash of Worcestershire sauce can bring even more complexity.
- Butter for a Velvety Finish – Helps the glaze coat the steak evenly while adding richness to the final bite.
- Red Pepper Flakes for Heat – Just a small pinch brings a slight warmth that cuts through the sweetness.
How to Make Bourbon Glazed Grilled Steak
This recipe is straightforward, but following the right steps ensures a perfectly glazed, flavorful steak.
- Make the Glaze – In a saucepan, combine bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until thickened to a syrup-like consistency.
- Season the Steak – Lightly season with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder. This allows the glaze to shine without overpowering the meat.
- Grill to Perfection – Cook over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side. Brush the glaze on during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
- Rest Before Slicing – Let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes. This keeps the juices locked in for a tender, flavorful bite.
- Final Glaze & Serve – Drizzle with extra glaze before serving for that signature sticky, caramelized finish.
Tips to Get the Best Results
A few small tweaks can take this steak from good to absolutely unforgettable.
- Don’t Add the Glaze Too Early – The sugars in the glaze can burn over high heat. Brush it on in the final minutes to keep it caramelized, not charred.
- Use a Meat Thermometer – This helps ensure the steak is cooked to your preferred doneness. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.
- Let the Bourbon Reduce – Cooking down the bourbon concentrates its caramel flavors while removing the harsh alcohol bite.
- Double the Glaze – This sauce is so good, you’ll want extra for drizzling over the finished steak.
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Ways to Customize the Bourbon Glaze
This glaze is already packed with flavor, but a few adjustments can make it even better suited to your taste.
- Make It Spicier – Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or a dash of cayenne for extra kick.
- Add a Smoky Twist – Use smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke for deeper barbecue notes.
- Try a Different Sweetener – Maple syrup or honey can replace brown sugar for a slightly different sweetness.
- Experiment with Citrus – A squeeze of fresh orange juice adds a bright contrast to the glaze.
Best Side Dishes for Bourbon Glazed Steak
A rich, sweet, and smoky steak needs the right side dishes to balance out the flavors. Here are some of the best pairings:
- Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and smooth, they help soak up the extra glaze.
- Grilled Asparagus with Lemon – A fresh, slightly charred contrast to the caramelized steak.
- Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Adds a tangy depth that cuts through the richness.
- Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes – A creamy, indulgent side that pairs beautifully with the glaze.
- Crispy Onion Rings – A crunchy, savory addition that complements the steak’s sticky-sweet finish.
Bourbon Glazed Grilled Steak
Equipment
- Grill or Grill Pan For cooking the steak over high heat
- Saucepan For reducing the bourbon glaze
- Basting Brush For applying the glaze
- Tongs For flipping the steak
Ingredients
- 2 steaks ribeye or New York strip 1-inch thick
- 1/2 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for brushing steak
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- 1 tablespoon butter for finishing the glaze
Instructions
- Season both sides of the steak with salt and black pepper. Brush with olive oil and let rest at room temperature for 15 minutes.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
- Simmer the glaze for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Stir in butter and remove from heat.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
- Place steaks on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until they develop a nice sear.
- During the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush the steaks with the bourbon glaze, flipping once to coat both sides.
- Remove the steaks from the grill and let them rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
- Drizzle with additional glaze before serving for extra flavor.
Notes
- Letting the steak rest before slicing helps retain juices.
- For a deeper bourbon flavor, let the glaze sit for 10 minutes before using.
- Pairs well with grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or garlic butter rice.
Carrie is a food writer and editor with more than 15 years of experience. She has worked for some of the biggest names in the food industry, including Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and Martha Stewart Living.
As the Editor in Chief of IntroChicago.com, Carrie oversees all of the content on the site. She also manages the team of contributing writers and editors, who help to create delicious recipes, helpful tips, and informative articles that you’ll find on the site.
A native of the Chicago area, Carrie is passionate about all things food. She loves trying new restaurants and experimenting with new recipes in her kitchen. She’s also a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, so she knows a thing or two about food!
Sherry Eiler
Friday 7th of March 2025
The instructions were so clear—made cooking stress-free.
Frank Byrd
Friday 7th of March 2025
Everything about this was perfect! Can’t wait to make it again.