These grilled beef kabobs are super tender and bursting with flavor! Marinated in a simple mix, they are quick to make and perfect for any BBQ or weeknight dinner.
These kabobs are so easy to whip up that you’ll want to make them every week! I love loading mine up with colorful veggies—because who doesn’t love a bit of rainbow on the plate? 🌈
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Sirloin or ribeye are both great choices for kabobs. They are tender and flavorful. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using tenderloin. For a budget-friendly alternative, chuck steak works too but should be marinated longer to tenderize.
Olive Oil: This gives the marinade a rich flavor. If you don’t have it, feel free to substitute with vegetable oil, avocado oil, or even melted butter for a different taste.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce adds depth to the marinade. If you’re avoiding gluten, use tamari or coconut aminos as a great gluten-free alternative.
Honey/Brown Sugar: This ingredient adds a hint of sweetness. If you’re looking for a sugar alternative, maple syrup works well too, or skip it altogether for a more savory flavor.
Veggies: While this recipe calls for bell peppers, zucchini, and onions, feel free to use any favorite vegetables like mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or even pineapple for a sweet twist!
How Can I Ensure My Kabobs Are Juicy and Tender?
The trick to juicy, tender kabobs starts with marination. Make sure to give the beef enough time to absorb all the flavors—ideally, let it marinate overnight. This also helps to break down the meat fibers, making them more tender.
- Remove the meat from the fridge about 30 minutes before grilling. This warms it up for more even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers! Leave some space between the pieces so they cook evenly and get that nice char.
- Use medium-high heat on the grill and turn the kabobs frequently. This prevents burning and ensures tender meat.
Letting the kabobs rest for a few minutes after grilling helps the juices redistribute, so don’t skip this step! Enjoy!
Tender Grilled Beef Kabobs with Easy Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1½ pounds beef sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
For the Marinade:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and requires a marination time of at least 1 hour. Ideal marination is 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness. Grilling will take around 10 minutes, making the total time approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes, including marinating.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, honey, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will give your kabobs amazing flavor.
2. Marinate the Beef:
Place the cubed beef into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the beef, ensuring all pieces get a nice even coat. Seal the bag or cover the dish and put it in the refrigerator. Allow the beef to marinate for at least 1 hour, but for the best results, aim for 4 hours or overnight.
3. Prepare for Grilling:
About 30 minutes before you plan to grill, take the beef out of the fridge so it can sit at room temperature, which helps with even cooking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Assemble the Kabobs:
Once your beef is ready, skewer the marinated beef cubes onto the skewers. Alternate the beef pieces with chunks of bell pepper, onion, and zucchini for a colorful and tasty presentation.
5. Grill the Kabobs:
Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the kabobs on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes. Be sure to turn them every 2-3 minutes to ensure all sides are nicely charred and the beef is cooked to your liking (medium-rare to medium is best for tenderness).
6. Let Them Rest:
After grilling, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring you’re left with tender bites!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the hot kabobs with your favorite sides like fluffy rice, a fresh salad, or warm pita bread. Enjoy your delightful and flavorful grilled beef kabobs!
FAQ for Tender Grilled Beef Kabobs
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can swap the beef for chicken, lamb, or even shrimp. Just adjust the marinating time as different meats have varying absorption rates—chicken needs about 1-2 hours, while lamb and shrimp will require less time, around 30 minutes.
What If I Don’t Have All the Marinade Ingredients?
No worries! You can get creative. If you’re missing smoked paprika, regular paprika or even chili powder can work. For a soy sauce alternative, try coconut aminos or a mix of balsamic vinegar and water. Keep in mind the flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy them again, reheat gently in the microwave or on a skillet with a splash of water to keep them moist. You can also serve them cold in wraps or salads!
Can I Make These Kabobs in the Oven?
Yes! If grilling isn’t an option, you can bake the kabobs in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the kabobs on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through until the meat is cooked through and the veggies are tender.
