These Marinated Beef Kabobs are the perfect centerpiece for your next cookout. They’re not just flavorful and juicy, but also versatile enough to suit various occasions—from family barbecues to elegant dinner parties. With a simple marinade that infuses the beef with rich flavors, these kabobs stand out as a low-carb delight that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy preparation: The marinade comes together quickly, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
- Flavor-packed: Each bite is bursting with savory goodness from the blend of balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings.
- Perfect for meal prep: Marinate ahead of time for a hassle-free grilling experience when you’re ready to cook.
- Great for gatherings: These kabobs are an impressive dish that’s sure to please guests at any gathering or party.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making these marinated beef kabobs, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Skewers
- Mixing bowl
- Ziploc bag or plastic container
- Basting brush (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: The grill gives the kabobs their signature smoky flavor and perfect grill marks.
- Skewers: They hold the meat together, making it easy to flip and cook evenly.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all marinade ingredients without spilling.
- Ziploc bag or plastic container: Perfect for marinating the beef, keeping it contained and flavorful.
Ingredients
These marinated beef kabobs are absolutely delicious and they’re perfect for a tasty low-carb meal from the grill.
For the Kabobs
- 2 pounds lean beef, trimmed and cut into 2 inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons beef stock
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon steak seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 bay leaves
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Marinated Beef Kabobs
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Trim most of the visible fat from the meat and cut into 2-inch cubes.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, stir together:
– Beef stock (or red apple vinegar)
– Balsamic vinegar
– Worcestershire sauce
– Olive oil
– Onion powder
– Garlic powder
– Steak seasoning
– Dried thyme
– Dried oregano
– Black pepper
– Bay leaves
Step 3: Marinate the Meat
Put meat cubes into a Ziploc bag or plastic container. Pour in the marinade ensuring all pieces are coated well. Seal tightly and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 to 6 hours, or longer if you prefer.
Step 4: Preheat Grill
When ready to cook, drain kabobs while preheating your grill to medium-high heat.
Step 5: Assemble Kabobs
Thread meat tightly onto skewers. Allow them to come to room temperature while grilling heats up.
Step 6: Grill Kabobs
Grill kabobs until desired doneness is reached, turning them when nice grill marks appear on one side. Cooking times will vary based on thickness:
– About 8-10 minutes for rare
– 10-12 minutes for medium rare
– 12-15 minutes for medium
Step 7: Check Doneness
Easily check doneness by removing one piece of meat or using a digital meat thermometer.
Step 8: Rest Before Serving
Let kabobs rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious marinated beef kabobs!
How to Serve Marinated Beef Kabobs
Serving marinated beef kabobs can elevate your meal experience. They are versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides and sauces to suit any occasion.
Grilled Vegetable Medley
- Add color and flavor by grilling vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions alongside your kabobs. This enhances both taste and presentation.
Fresh Salad
- A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the beef. Consider adding cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese.
Rice Pilaf
- Serve your kabobs over a bed of fluffy rice pilaf. The light spices in the rice complement the bold flavors of the marinated beef.
Flatbreads
- Warmed flatbreads or pita make great accompaniments for wrapping around the kabobs. They add a delightful texture and absorb juices beautifully.
Dipping Sauces
- Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as tzatziki, chimichurri, or barbecue sauce. These can enhance the flavors and provide options for guests.
Pickled Vegetables
- Serve pickled vegetables on the side for a tangy crunch. They balance out the savory richness of the kabobs nicely.
How to Perfect Marinated Beef Kabobs
To ensure your marinated beef kabobs turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Choose Quality Meat: Select lean cuts like sirloin or tenderloin for tenderness and flavor in your kabobs.
- Marinate Long Enough: Allow at least 4-6 hours for marinating to ensure that the flavors penetrate deeply into the meat.
- Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before cooking; this helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and seals in juices.
- Use Skewers Wisely: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning on the grill.
- Check Doneness Carefully: Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate doneness; this prevents overcooking and dryness.
- Rest Before Serving: Let your kabobs rest for about 5 minutes after grilling. This allows juices to redistribute for maximum flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Marinated Beef Kabobs
Pairing side dishes with marinated beef kabobs can enhance your meal’s overall enjoyment. Here are some delicious options:
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears grilled until tender make a healthy and tasty side.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that pairs well with beef while adding great texture.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled until charred adds a burst of sweetness that complements savory meats.
- Couscous Salad: A light salad made with couscous, herbs, and vegetables offers a refreshing side with great flavor.
- Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes topped with sour cream or chives provide comfort alongside robust kabobs.
- Greek Yogurt Dip: A cool yogurt dip with herbs can serve as a refreshing accompaniment to spicy flavors.
- Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw adds texture and tanginess that balances out the richness of grilled meats.
- Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with grains or meat create a hearty side dish that pairs wonderfully with kabobs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making marinated beef kabobs, it’s easy to overlook some important steps. Here are common mistakes that can affect the outcome of your kabobs.
- Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing enough time for marination can lead to bland meat. Aim for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
- Using Tough Cuts of Meat: Choosing a less tender cut can result in chewy kabobs. Opt for lean cuts like sirloin or ribeye for a better texture.
- Overcrowding Skewers: Packing too many pieces on one skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Space the meat cubes slightly apart for even heat distribution.
- Not Preheating the Grill: Starting with a cold grill can prevent proper searing and flavor development. Preheat your grill to medium-high before cooking.
- Ignoring Doneness: Cooking by time alone can lead to overcooked or undercooked meat. Use a digital meat thermometer to check for desired doneness.
- Skipping the Resting Period: Cutting into kabobs right after grilling releases juices, making them less juicy. Let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover marinated beef kabobs in an airtight container.
- They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Marinated Beef Kabobs
- Place uncooked kabobs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Marinated Beef Kabobs
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place kabobs on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a lid or plastic wrap. Heat on medium power in short intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Sear kabobs for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best beef for marinated beef kabobs?
The best cuts include sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin as they offer great flavor and tenderness when grilled.
How long should I marinate beef kabobs?
Marinating for at least 4-6 hours is recommended, but overnight works even better to enhance the flavors.
Can I use vegetables in my marinated beef kabobs?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, onions, and zucchini pair well with marinated beef and add color and nutrition.
How do I know when my beef kabobs are done?
Use a digital meat thermometer; aim for 130°F (54°C) for rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium-rare, and 160°F (71°C) for medium.
Can I make marinated beef kabobs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade and meat ahead of time. Just store them together in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.
Final Thoughts
These marinated beef kabobs are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with different spices or vegetables based on your preferences. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress! Try it out today and savor the flavors!
Marinated Beef Kabobs
Indulge in these Marinated Beef Kabobs, the ultimate centerpiece for your next cookout. Bursting with flavor and juiciness, these kabobs are perfect for family gatherings or elegant dinner parties. The simple marinade combines balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and a blend of spices to infuse the beef with rich taste, making them a delicious low-carb option everyone will adore. Plus, they’re customizable—add your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings to suit your palate!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Ingredients
- 2 lbs lean beef (sirloin or tenderloin), cut into 2-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp beef stock
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Steak seasoning
- Dried thyme
- Dried oregano
- Black pepper
- Bay leaves
Instructions
- Trim visible fat from the beef and cube it.
- In a mixing bowl, combine beef stock, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, onion powder, garlic powder, steak seasoning, herbs, black pepper, and bay leaves to create the marinade.
- Place meat in a Ziploc bag or container; pour marinade over beef and seal tightly. Refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours or overnight.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread marinated beef onto skewers.
- Grill kabobs for about 8-15 minutes based on desired doneness (rare to medium).
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 kabob (approximately 85g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Use lean cuts like sirloin for tenderness. Allow enough marinating time for maximum flavor infusion. Soak wooden skewers beforehand to prevent burning.
