These Bourbon and Coke steak kabobs are a fun twist on a classic! Tender chunks of steak are marinated in a sweet and tangy mix, then grilled to juicy perfection.
Honestly, who can resist that BBQ flavor? I love making these for summer cookouts—they disappear faster than I can skewer them! 🍢
Pair these kabobs with a fresh salad or some corn on the cob, and you have a meal that’s not just tasty but also super easy to prepare. Perfect for sharing with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak: This cut is great for kabobs because it’s flavorful and tender when cooked correctly. If you can’t find flank steak, sirloin or ribeye can work too. Just cut them into cubes similar in size.
Bourbon: The bourbon adds a rich flavor to the marinade. If you want an alcohol-free option, try using apple cider vinegar or a mix of apple juice and a splash of vanilla extract for a similar depth of flavor.
Coca-Cola: This ingredient helps caramelize the meat and adds sweetness. If you don’t have Coca-Cola, any cola or a soda with similar sweetness, like root beer, will work. For a healthier approach, you could use a splash of balsamic vinegar and a bit of sugar.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce adds umami richness. For a gluten-free option, choose tamari or coconut aminos, which offer a similar taste without gluten.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Two teaspoons of garlic powder can replace three cloves of fresh garlic.
How Do I Marinate the Steak for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating the steak is one of the best parts of this recipe! Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl, mixing thoroughly.
- Cut the flank steak into 1-inch cubes for even flavor absorption.
- Add the steak to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated well.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For best results, let it sit overnight.
- If you can, flip the steak in the marinade halfway to help all sides absorb flavors.
This marinade tenderizes the meat and infuses it with delicious flavor. Trust me, it makes a big difference! Enjoy your kabobs!
How to Make Bourbon And Coke Steak Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Marinade:
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1/2 cup Coca-Cola
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For The Kabobs:
- 2 lbs flank steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Optional: bell peppers and onions, cut into pieces for skewering
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus at least 2 hours for marinating the steak, or you can marinate overnight for even better flavor. Grill time is about 8-10 minutes, making it a delicious, quick meal for your next BBQ!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the bourbon, Coca-Cola, soy sauce, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, onion powder, and salt. Stir everything together well until it’s nicely mixed. This flavorful marinade is key to tender and tasty kabobs!
2. Marinate the Steak:
Add the cubed flank steak to the marinade in the bowl. Use a spoon or your hands to make sure all the pieces are coated evenly. Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, or even overnight if you want the flavors to really shine.
3. Get Ready to Grill:
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes. This step prevents them from burning on the grill. While they soak, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures your kabobs will cook evenly and get nice grill marks!
4. Assemble the Kabobs:
Once the steak has marinated and your grill is ready, take the skewers out. Thread the marinated steak pieces onto the skewers, and if you’re using them, alternate with bell peppers and onion pieces for added flavor and color.
5. Grill the Kabobs:
Place the kabobs on the heated grill. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally to get those delicious grill marks and ensure they are cooked to your liking. You can cook them to medium-rare, medium, or medium-well based on your preference.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Once done, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps to keep them juicy. Serve the kabobs hot and, if you like, drizzle them with some extra marinade or sauce. Enjoy your tasty creation with your favorite sides!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat for These Kabobs?
Absolutely! While flank steak is great for its flavor and tenderness, you can substitute it with ribeye, sirloin, or even chicken if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, especially for chicken, which needs to be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Marinate the Steak for Longer Than Overnight?
Yes, you can marinate the steak for longer, but aim to keep it within 24 hours. The acidity from the bourbon and Coca-Cola can start to break down the meat too much if left for more than a day, potentially leading to a mushy texture. If you plan to marinate longer, consider reducing the amount of marinade or adding the soy sauce just before grilling.
How to Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a microwave or a skillet over low heat until warmed through. If you want them crispy, you can also pop them back on the grill for a couple of minutes!
What Vegetables Pair Best with These Steak Kabobs?
Bell peppers and onions are excellent choices! You can also add zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for variety. Just cut them into similar sizes to the steak for even cooking. Feel free to experiment with your favorite veggies!
