These tasty grilled beef kabobs are full of flavor and super easy to make! Marinated in a special mix that adds a yummy touch, they’re perfect for any barbecue.
Grilling kabobs is a fun way to enjoy a meal outdoors. I love pairing them with fresh veggies for a colorful dish that’s hard to resist. Who can say no to a good skewer? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Sirloin or chuck work best for kabobs. If you want a leaner cut, tenderloin is a great option, but it can be pricier. You could also use chicken or lamb for a different flavor.
Bell Peppers: I’ve used a mix of red, green, and yellow for color and sweetness. If you’re out of one kind, just replace it with another or use zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or even pineapple for a fun twist!
Red Onion: This adds sweetness and color to your kabobs. If you’re not a fan, you can use white onion or even green onions for a milder taste.
Marinade Ingredients: The combination of soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce gives depth. You can swap coconut aminos for a soy-free version and use apple cider vinegar instead of red wine vinegar if needed.
How Do You Make Kabobs That Aren’t Dry?
The key to juicy kabobs is the marinade and cooking time. Marinating the beef allows it to soak in flavors and stay moist. Always marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better!
- Use medium-high heat for grilling to get a nice char without overcooking the meat.
- Check the doneness with a meat thermometer: 130°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium.
- Let your kabobs rest a few minutes after grilling – this helps keep the juices inside.
Easy Grilled Beef Kabobs with Best Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1 1/2 pounds beef sirloin or chuck, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 large red onion, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
- 8 oz whole mushrooms (optional)
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare, with an additional 2 to 6 hours for the marinating time. Cooking on the grill will take around 10-12 minutes. Overall, plan for about 30-40 minutes active time, plus the marination time for the best flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, brown sugar, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed and looks like a smooth sauce. This will be the magic flavor booster for your kabobs!
2. Marinate the Beef:
Add the beef cubes to the marinade, making sure to turn them around so they’re well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it in the fridge. Let the beef soak up the flavors for at least 2 hours—as long as 6 hours is even better!
3. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes, so they don’t catch fire on the grill. This step is super important for keeping your kabobs intact!
4. Preheat the Grill:
Turn on your grill and set it to medium-high heat. Let it heat up while you prep the ingredients. A hot grill gives your kabobs a nice sear!
5. Assemble the Kabobs:
Time to put it all together! Take the marinated beef and skewer it with the bell peppers, red onion, and mushrooms, alternating as you go. This not only looks colorful but also makes sure you get a balanced bite of meat and veggies!
6. Grill the Kabobs:
Carefully place the kabobs on the grill. Cook them for about 8-12 minutes, turning occasionally to get an even char. The beef should reach your desired doneness—medium-rare is around 130°F, and medium is about 145°F.
7. Let Them Rest:
Once done, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them sit for a few minutes. This resting time keeps the juices inside and makes each bite extra tasty!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Time to dig in! Serve your kabobs hot with rice, a fresh salad, or any of your favorite side dishes. Enjoy a burst of flavors and a fun, satisfying meal!
With these Easy Grilled Beef Kabobs, you’re sure to impress family and friends with a delicious meal that’s packed with flavor! Happy grilling!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can swap beef for chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the marinating time accordingly—chicken typically needs about 2-4 hours, while shrimp only needs 30 minutes to an hour.
What Vegetables Can I Use in the Kabobs?
You can use a variety of vegetables! In addition to bell peppers and onions, try zucchini, cherry tomatoes, eggplant, or even chunks of pineapple for a sweeter touch. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can either warm them gently on the stovetop or pop them in the microwave for a quick meal. Enjoy them cold in a salad too!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just make sure to give it a good stir before adding the beef and letting it marinate!
