Marinated Beef Kabobs

These marinated beef kabobs are a delightful option for your next grilling adventure. Perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or even a cozy dinner at home, these kabobs offer a burst of flavor that everyone will love. The blend of marinades infuses the beef with rich flavors while keeping it tender and juicy. Plus, they’re low in carbs, making them suitable for various dietary needs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can have these kabobs ready in no time.
• Flavorful Marinade – The combination of balsamic vinegar and Worcestershire sauce delivers an irresistible taste that enhances the beef.
• Versatile Serving Options – Serve them as a main dish or pair with fresh salads or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
• Perfectly Grilled – These kabobs get beautifully charred on the grill, giving them a smoky flavor that is hard to resist.
• Great for Meal Prep – Marinate ahead of time and cook whenever you’re ready for an easy weeknight dinner.

Tools and Preparation

To make your marinated beef kabobs, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)
• Mixing bowl
• Ziploc bag or plastic container
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill – Provides high heat needed to achieve those perfect grill marks and flavor.
• Skewers – Keep the meat pieces together while cooking, allowing for even grilling.
• Mixing bowl – Used to combine all marinade ingredients effectively before adding the beef.
• Tongs – Essential for flipping kabobs without piercing the meat and losing juices.

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 (see notes)
• 2 tablespoons beef stock
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (see notes)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon steak seasoning (see notes)
• 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

1. Trim most of the visible fat from the meat.
2. Cut the beef into 2-inch cubes.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a mixing bowl, stir together:
2. Beef stock (or red apple vinegar)
3. Balsamic vinegar
4. Worcestershire sauce
5. Olive oil
6. Onion powder
7. Garlic powder
8. Steak seasoning
9. Dried thyme
10. Dried oregano
11. Black pepper
12. Add bay leaves last.

Step 3: Marinate the Beef

1. Place meat cubes in a small Ziploc bag or snap-tight container.
2. Pour in the marinade ensuring all pieces are coated.
3. Marinate in refrigerator for at least 4-6 hours or overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat; it should be hot enough that you can only hold your hand there for a few seconds.

Step 5: Assemble Kabobs

1. Drain excess marinade from meat.
2. Thread marinated beef onto skewers tightly.
3. Let skewers come to room temperature while grill heats.

Step 6: Grill Kabobs

1. Place skewers on hot grill.
2. Grill until desired doneness:
3. About 8-10 minutes for rare,
4. 10-12 minutes for medium rare,
5. 12-15 minutes for medium.
6. Turn when nice grill marks form.

Step 7: Check Doneness

1. Optionally, cut one piece of meat to check if it’s cooked to your liking or use a digital meat thermometer.

Step 8: Rest Before Serving

1. Allow kabobs to rest about 5 minutes before serving to retain juices.

Enjoy your deliciously grilled 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 various sides, sauces, and garnishes to enhance their flavors.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Grilled Peppers: Brightly colored bell peppers add a sweet crunch that complements the savory beef.
• Zucchini Slices: Lightly grilled zucchini provides a tender texture and absorbs the marinade flavors well.

On a Bed of Rice

• Fluffy Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice pairs beautifully with the robust flavors of kabobs.
• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that keeps the meal light while adding a subtle nuttiness.

With Dipping Sauces

• Garlic Aioli: Creamy and garlicky, this sauce adds richness to every bite.
• Chimichurri Sauce: A vibrant herb sauce that brightens up the dish with its tangy flavor profile.

How to Perfect Marinated Beef Kabobs

To achieve perfectly cooked marinated beef kabobs, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Marinade Choice: Use a variety of marinades to experiment with different flavors. The right marinade can significantly enhance the taste of your kabobs.
• Skewer Preparation: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
• Consistent Meat Size: Cut meat into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Consistency helps avoid undercooked or overcooked pieces.
• Resting Time: Let the kabobs rest after grilling for about 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, making each bite more flavorful and juicy.
• Use High Heat: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures a good sear and prevents sticking while cooking.
• Check Doneness: Use a digital meat thermometer for perfect results. Aim for 135°F for medium-rare and adjust according to preference.

Best Side Dishes for Marinated Beef Kabobs

Pairing delicious side dishes with marinated beef kabobs enhances your meal’s overall experience. Here are some great options.

1. Greek Salad: A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese adds freshness to balance the richness of the beef.
2. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter and herbs offers a delightful contrast in flavors.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Seasoned asparagus adds a crunchy texture while being easy to prepare alongside kabobs.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that complements the grilled meat well.
5. Quinoa Salad: Packed with nutrients, quinoa salad can be flavored with herbs and lemon for a light side option.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with spices make a hearty addition that pairs perfectly with beef kabobs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making marinated beef kabobs, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you get it right.

• Using tough cuts of meat: Always choose lean cuts like sirloin or tenderloin. Tough cuts will not marinate well and can result in chewy kabobs.
• Skipping the marinade time: Marinating for at least 4-6 hours enhances the flavor significantly. Don’t rush this step; overnight is even better for maximum taste.
• Overcrowding the skewers: Ensure that the meat pieces are spaced out on the skewers. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and prevent good grill marks from forming.
• Ignoring grill temperature: Cooking on too low a heat can result in dry meat. Preheat your grill to medium-high to sear the kabobs properly.
• Not resting after grilling: Allowing your kabobs to rest for about 5 minutes before serving helps retain their juices. Cutting into them immediately will let those juices escape.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store marinated beef kabobs in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure to keep them separate from cooked foods to avoid cross-contamination.

Freezing Marinated Beef Kabobs

• Place uncooked marinated beef kabobs in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label the bag with the date and type of marinade for easy identification later.

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 or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) until warm, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of beef is best for marinated beef kabobs?

Choosing lean cuts such as sirloin or tenderloin is ideal. These cuts maintain moisture and tenderness when grilled.

Can I use different marinades for my beef kabobs?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with various marinades like teriyaki or garlic herbs. Adjust according to your taste preferences.

How long should I marinate my kabobs?

For optimal flavor, marinate your beef kabobs for at least 4-6 hours. Overnight is even better if you have time!

What should I serve with marinated beef kabobs?

These kabobs pair well with grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce too!

Can I make marinated beef kabobs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and marinate them a day ahead. Just keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to grill.

Final Thoughts

These marinated beef kabobs are not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can customize them by adding different vegetables or trying out new marinades. Give this recipe a try and enjoy an easy, flavorful meal right off the grill!