Grilled beef kebabs are tasty bites of seasoned beef on skewers, cooked over a grill. They are perfect for outdoor meals and great for sharing with friends or family.
I like making them because I can add my favorite spices and enjoy the fun of grilling outside. Plus, they remind me of summer parties!
For a quick meal, serve the kebabs with fresh vegetables or pita bread. They’re a healthy and easy choice for weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: I prefer sirloin or ribeye for tender, flavorful kebabs. Keep the meat in bite-sized pieces and marinate it to boost flavor. If beef isn’t available, try chicken or firm tofu as a substitute.
Bell Peppers & Onions: These add sweetness and crunch. Use colorful peppers and onions for vibrant flavor. If peppers aren’t your thing, zucchini or mushrooms work well too.
Olive Oil & Marinade: Olive oil helps the marinade cling and keeps meat moist. Mix with garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper. You can swap in lemon juice or soy sauce for variation.
Skewers: Wooden skewers should be soaked in water before grilling to prevent burning. Metal skewers are reusable and don’t need soaking, making them a handy alternative.
How do I prevent kebabs from sticking or tearing during grilling?
Start with a hot grill and oil the grates lightly. Thread meat and veggies smoothly, not too tight. Turn kebabs steadily, using tongs, to avoid tearing the meat or dislodging pieces.
- Ensure the grill is hot before placing kebabs on it—this helps prevent sticking.
- Use tongs to gently turn kebabs and avoid pulling or twisting too hard.
- Let the meat rest a few minutes after grilling to keep it juicy and easier to serve.
How to Make Grilled Beef Kebabs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef
- 1 1/2 pounds beef sirloin or tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
For the Marinade
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Additional
- Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)
- Vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep time: 20 minutes, Marinating: 30 minutes, Grilling: 10 minutes, Total: About 1 hour
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the marinade
Mix olive oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, black pepper, and lemon juice in a bowl. Stir well to combine.
2. Marinate the beef
Place beef cubes in a zip-top bag or dish. Pour marinade over the beef. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Prepare the grill and skewers
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Assemble the kebabs
Thread beef cubes onto skewers, alternating with vegetables if desired. Leave some space between pieces for even cooking.
5. Grill the kebabs
Place skewers on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until beef is browned and cooked to your liking.
6. Serve and enjoy
Remove kebabs from the grill. Let rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
