Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. Mix it up: In a small bowl, combine the bourbon, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well blended.
3. Coat the bacon: Take each strip of bacon and dip it into the bourbon BBQ mixture, ensuring both sides are generously coated.
4. Lay it out: Place the coated bacon strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they aren’t overlapping.
5. Bake: Pop them in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized to your liking.
6. Cool down: Once done, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before diving in!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Now that you’ve created this glorious Bourbon BBQ Bacon, the next step is serving it. This dish shines as a star appetizer or as a savory side. Consider stacking the bacon strips on a platter garnished with chopped parsley for a pop of color. You can pair it with creamy coleslaw, baked beans, or even make a decadent bacon sandwich with your favorite toppings. For a fun twist, crumble the bacon over a salad for that added crunch and flavor.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

Want to enjoy your Bourbon BBQ Bacon again? Here’s how to store it properly:

• Refrigerate: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the bacon for up to a month. Just layer strips between parchment paper, place them in a freezer bag, and ensure they’re well-sealed.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and crispy, which should take around 10 minutes.

Helpful Cooking Tips

To make your Bourbon BBQ Bacon even more delightful, consider these chef-approved tips:

• Choose the right bacon: Thick-cut bacon is essential; it holds up better to the baking process and offers that coveted crispy texture.
• Let it marinate: For richer flavor, let the bacon strips soak in the bourbon BBQ mixture for 15-30 minutes before baking.
• Watch the oven: Keep an eye on the bacon during the last few minutes of baking to ensure it doesn’t burn—oven times can vary!

Creative Twists

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, try these variations:

• Add heat: Spice things up by mixing in some cayenne pepper or using spicy BBQ sauce for a kick.
• Maple twist: Swap the bourbon for maple syrup for a sweet, sticky alternative that pairs beautifully with bacon.
• Vegetarian friendly: Try using eggplant or zucchini strips as a substitute and coat them in the same marinade for a unique twist on the original!

Common Questions

• How much time does it take to prep this recipe?
  From gathering ingredients to pulling the bacon out of the oven, expect a total time of about 35-40 minutes.

• Can I substitute the bourbon?
  Yes! Feel free to use apple cider, or if you prefer not to use alcohol at all, just increase the BBQ sauce for a delicious flavor.

• How do I ensure my bacon stays crispy?
  Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet and allow space between strips for even cooking. A higher fat content in your bacon can also contribute to that perfect crisp!

Elevate your next meal with this irresistible Bourbon BBQ Bacon that’s sure to impress friends and family alike! Happy cooking!