These Easy Grilled Beef Kabobs are packed with flavor thanks to a fantastic marinade! Tender pieces of beef are mixed with colorful veggies, making every bite tasty and fun.
Who doesn’t love food on a stick? 😄 I enjoy serving these kabobs with rice or a fresh salad. They’re super simple to make, perfect for a sunny day BBQ, and always a big hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: I recommend using chuck or sirloin for their tenderness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using flank steak instead; just remember it cooks quickly, so watch it closely!
Bell Peppers: Any color of bell pepper works wonderfully, so feel free to mix and match. For a different twist, you could try zucchini or mushrooms as tasty alternatives, adding great flavor and texture.
Marinade Ingredients: If you’re avoiding soy sauce, coconut aminos is a great gluten-free swap. For a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Personal favorite: I love using lemon juice for a zesty kick!
How Do You Make Your Kabobs Tender and Flavorful?
The key to juicy grilled kabobs is the marinade! It not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. Remember to marinate your beef for at least 2 hours, and if you can, let it soak for 4–6 hours. This gives the flavors time to soak in.
- Combine marinade ingredients and coat the beef well.
- Use a resealable bag or dish to keep the marinade close to the meat.
- Soak wooden skewers beforehand; this prevents them from burning on the grill.
Easy Grilled Beef Kabobs With The Best Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1.5 pounds beef chuck or sirloin steak, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 6-8 wooden or metal skewers
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 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 or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 2 hours for marination. If you want the best flavor, aim for 4-6 hours of marinating. Then, you’ll spend about 12 minutes grilling! Total time is roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes, but most of it is hands-off while the beef marinates.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, brown sugar, oregano, black pepper, and salt. Stir until everything is well combined—this is what will make your beef so tasty!
2. Marinating the Beef:
Take the beef cubes and put them in a large resealable plastic bag or a glass dish. Pour the marinade over the beef, making sure each piece is nicely coated. Seal the bag tight or cover the dish, then pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours; if you have time, 4-6 hours is even better for juicy, flavorful beef.
3. Soaking the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill and helps your kabobs turn out perfectly.
4. Preparing the Kabobs:
Once the beef is marinated, it’s time to build your kabobs! Thread the marinated beef chunks onto the skewers, alternating with pieces of red, green, and yellow bell peppers and wedges of red onion. This will make your kabobs colorful and delicious!
5. Preheating the Grill:
Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat. Make sure the grill grates are clean, and you can lightly oil them to prevent sticking.
6. Grilling the Kabobs:
Now, it’s time to grill! Place your kabobs on the grill and cook them for about 8-12 minutes. Turn them every 3-4 minutes to ensure they cook evenly. Your kabobs are done when the beef is cooked to your liking and the veggies are just starting to char.
7. Resting and Serving:
When your kabobs are off the grill, let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle. Now, it’s serving time! Delight in your flavorful kabobs with sides like creamy rice, a fresh salad, or even more grilled vegetables. Enjoy every bite!
Cheers to delicious, juicy grilled beef kabobs with the best homemade marinade!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Beef Kabobs
Can I Use Different Vegetables in My Kabobs?
Absolutely! While bell peppers and onions are classic choices, you can get creative with zucchini, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or even pineapple for a sweet twist. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
What if I Don’t Have Time to Marinate the Beef?
If you’re short on time, try to marinate for at least 30 minutes if possible, but even 15 minutes can add some flavor. Alternatively, you can use a store-bought marinade for convenience!
How Do I Store Leftover Kabobs?
Leftover kabobs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can grill them again for a few minutes or microwave them until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook the beef when reheating!
Can I Cook These Kabobs in the Oven?
Yes! If grilling isn’t an option, you can bake them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the kabobs on a baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the beef reaches your desired doneness.
