There's something irresistibly nostalgic about the smoky, charred perfection of beef kebabs fresh off the grill. Juicy chunks of marinated beef, colorful vegetables, and a touch of flame-kissed goodness make these kebabs a crowd-pleaser for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or even a quiet weeknight dinner. This recipe brings together simple yet flavorful ingredients, ensuring tender, flavorful bites every time.
Classic Grilled Beef Kebabs
Prep Time 25 minutes mins
Cook Time 10 minutes mins
Marinating 2 hours hrs
Total Time 2 hours hrs 35 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, South Asian
For the marinade
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
For the kebabs
- 1 1/2 pounds beef sirloin cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 large red bell pepper cut into 1 1/2-inch squares
- 1 large green bell pepper cut into 1 1/2-inch squares
- 1 red onion cut into wedges
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- Optional: mushrooms or zucchini slices
Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, garlic, honey, smoked paprika, oregano, black pepper, and cumin.
Marinate the Beef
Add the beef cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (up to 4 hours for maximum flavor).
Prep the Vegetables
While the beef marinates, prepare the vegetables. Keep the pieces roughly the same size as the beef cubes for even cooking.
Assemble the Kebabs
Thread the marinated beef, bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes onto the skewers, alternating for a colorful presentation.
Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Grill the Kebabs
Place the kebabs on the grill, turning every 2–3 minutes. Cook for about 10–12 minutes or until the beef reaches your desired doneness (medium-rare at 135°F, medium at 145°F).
Serve
Remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Pairings
These classic beef kebabs pair beautifully with refreshing sides like tzatziki sauce, a tangy cucumber and tomato salad, or fluffy garlic butter rice. If you're feeling indulgent, buttery grilled corn on the cob or a baked potato completes the meal.
FAQs
1. What cut of beef should I use?
Sirloin works wonderfully because it's flavorful, tender, and holds up well on skewers. If you're looking for something fancier, tenderloin is a luxurious choice. Avoid overly tough cuts like brisket, as they require longer cooking methods.
2. Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! Zucchini, mushrooms, and even pineapple chunks are great additions. Just make sure they're cut evenly for consistent cooking.
3. How do I prevent the beef from drying out?
Marination is key. The acidic components like lemon juice and Worcestershire sauce tenderize the beef, while the oil locks in moisture. Also, avoid overcooking!
4. Can I cook these without a grill?
Yes! Use a grill pan on the stovetop or bake them in the oven at 425°F for about 10–15 minutes, turning halfway through.
