Ground Beef Kebabs are a delightful and savory dish that brings the irresistible flavors of grilled meat to your dinner table. This recipe features perfectly seasoned ground beef, molded onto skewers, and grilled until juicy and charred. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy dinners at home, these kebabs offer a satisfying bite that’s packed with flavor. They’re not just delicious; they’re also fun to eat, making them a hit with both adults and kids alike!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This ground beef kebab recipe is sure to win your heart for multiple reasons. First and foremost, the flavor is simply unbeatable. The combination of spices melds beautifully with the beef, creating a savory experience that’s both rich and well-balanced. Second, the ease of cooking makes this dish accessible for anyone, regardless of their culinary skills. You can whip these kebabs up in no time, making them perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering. Lastly, ground beef is a versatile protein that fits perfectly into various dietary lifestyles, whether you’re going for a low-carb meal or simply looking for a hearty dish to please the family.
Tips and Tricks
To ensure your ground beef kebabs turn out perfectly every time, here are some useful tips and tricks:
- Choose the Right Meat: Opt for ground beef with a fat content of around 80/20 for a juicy kebab. Leaner beef can result in dry kebabs.
- Soak Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the spices with the ground beef, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in tough kebabs.
- Chill Before Grilling: After forming the kebabs, place them in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape while grilling.
Make Ahead Tips
To streamline your cooking process, consider these make-ahead tips:
- Marinate the Beef: You can marinate the ground beef with spices and seasonings the night before. Just keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to form the kebabs.
- Prep Kebabs: Form the kebabs up to 24 hours in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Freeze for Later: If you want to prep a larger batch, you can freeze raw kebabs for up to 2 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before cooking.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to mix things up with these variations:
- Spice It Up: Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or mint for a refreshing twist.
- Different Meats: Substitute ground lamb or chicken for a different flavor profile while keeping the same cooking method.
- Baked Kebabs: If grilling isn’t an option, bake the kebabs in the oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How to Serve
For a stunning presentation, serve your ground beef kebabs on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges. Pair them with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a colorful and nutritious meal. Drizzle with a yogurt sauce or sprinkle with feta cheese to elevate the dish further. Don’t forget to provide warm pita bread or fluffy rice on the side for a complete dining experience.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement your ground beef kebabs, consider pairing them with a refreshing mint lemonade or a chilled rosé wine. For side dishes, a tabbouleh salad or a creamy coleslaw would work beautifully. For dessert, light options like lemon sorbet or baklava can round out the meal perfectly.
How to Store
Storing your leftovers is simple:
- Refrigerator: Place any uneaten kebabs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze cooked kebabs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave for a quick option.
Equipment Needed
You’ll need the following equipment:
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Grill (gas or charcoal) or an oven
- Mixing bowl for combining ingredients
- Measuring spoons for spices
If you don’t have skewers, you can also use a cast-iron skillet to make patties instead!
Dietary Adaptations
To adapt this recipe for different dietary needs:
- Vegan: Substitute ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative and ensure that the seasonings are vegan-friendly.
- Gluten-Free: Check that all spices are gluten-free and serve with gluten-free sides.
- Nut-Free: This recipe is naturally nut-free, but read labels on your spices to ensure no cross-contamination.
Seasonal Adaptations
Take advantage of seasonal ingredients:
- Summer: Add fresh zucchini or bell peppers to your kebabs for a colorful burst.
- Fall: Incorporate pumpkin spice into the mixture for a unique twist.
- Winter: Serve kebabs with roasted root vegetables for a hearty meal.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey works well, but it may require additional seasoning for flavor.
- What’s the best way to know when the kebabs are done? Use a meat thermometer; ground beef should reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Can I cook these on a stovetop? Absolutely! Use a grill pan on medium-high heat and follow the same cooking times.
How To Make ground beef kebab recipe
Ground Beef Kebabs
Ground Beef Kebabs are a delightful and savory dish that brings the irresistible flavors of grilled meat to your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), parsley, and olive oil.
- Mix gently until all ingredients are well integrated, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Divide the mixture into equal portions and mold them onto skewers, pressing firmly to ensure they hold their shape.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kebabs are browned and reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve with lemon wedges and your choice of sides.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 357Total Fat 23gSaturated Fat 8gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 101mgSodium 688mgCarbohydrates 4gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 31g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making ground beef kebabs at home is not only a delicious endeavor but also a fun way to bring friends and family together. The combination of flavors, ease of preparation, and the joy of grilling makes this recipe a must-try for any occasion. Whether you serve them at a summer cookout or a cozy family dinner, these kebabs are sure to impress. Enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to customize them to suit your taste!
