Grilled beef kebabs feature tender chunks of beef on skewers, grilled to perfection with smoky flavor. They often include vegetables like peppers and onions, making a colorful and tasty dish.
I once mistook a kebab skewer for a toothpick—let’s just say I learned my lesson! Now I always double-check before biting.
For easy eating, serve them with warm pita or rice. They’re great for outdoor gatherings or quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Use sirloin or tenderloin for juicy, flavorful kebabs. I suggest trimming excess fat for even cooking. If you prefer a leaner option, lean cuts like top round work well but may be a bit tougher—marinate longer to tenderize.
Bell Peppers: Add color and sweetness to your kebabs. I like red or yellow for their vibrant look. If you don’t have peppers on hand, mushrooms or zucchini are good substitutes that also hold up well on the grill.
Onions: Provide a sweet, aromatic flavor. Red or yellow onions work best and become caramelized when grilled. For milder flavor, shallots are a nice alternative, or swap with scallions for bite-sized pieces.
Marinade: Typically made with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs. I find that marinating for at least 2 hours boosts flavor. If you’re short on time, use bottled lemon juice and minced garlic for quick prep.
How do I skewer the ingredients evenly?
Since uneven skewering can lead to overcooked or underdone pieces, I recommend placing larger, thicker pieces near the center and smaller ones on the edges. Keep similar-sized chunks together for even cooking, and avoid overcrowding the skewer to prevent steaming.
- Start with beef, then alternate with vegetables for a colorful, balanced look.
- Leave a small gap between pieces for heat circulation.
- Firmly push ingredients onto the skewer to prevent slipping during grilling.
How to Make Grilled Beef Kebabs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kebabs:
- 1.5 pounds beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation: 15 minutes, Grilling: 10 minutes, Marinating: 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the beef
Combine olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano. Toss beef with marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the grill
Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
3. Thread the skewers
Alternate beef, bell peppers, and onions on skewers. Leave some space between pieces.
4. Grill the kebabs
Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, until beef reaches your preferred doneness.
5. Serve hot
Remove from grill. Let rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
