Marinated Beef Kabobs

These Marinated Beef Kabobs are a delightful and flavorful option perfect for grilling season. With their tender meat and savory marinade, they stand out as a low-carb meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, these kabobs fit any occasion beautifully. Their rich flavors and juicy texture make them a must-try for beef lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices infuses the beef with mouthwatering flavor.
• Easy Preparation: Marinating the beef is quick and can be done in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these kabobs with low-carb sides or on top of salads for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Grilling: These kabobs are ideal for outdoor gatherings, providing a fun way to enjoy summer grilling.
• Low-Carb Delight: With just 5 grams of carbs per serving, they suit those following low-carb diets.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your marinated beef kabobs, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Skewers
• Mixing bowl
• Ziploc bag or plastic container
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor on your kabobs.
• Skewers: Keeps the meat organized and makes it easy to flip while grilling.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for preparing your marinade before adding the beef.
• Meat thermometer: Helps you check doneness accurately to avoid undercooked or overcooked meat.

Ingredients

These marinated beef kabobs are absolutely delicious and they’re perfect for a tasty low-carb meal from the grill.

For the Beef

• 2 pounds lean beef, trimmed and cut into 2 inch cubes (see notes)
• 2 T beef stock
• 2 T balsamic vinegar
• 1 T Worcestershire sauce (see notes)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 tsp. onion powder
• 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
• 1 tsp. steak seasoning (see notes)
• 1/2 tsp. dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp. 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 it into 2-inch cubes. This helps in even cooking.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

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

Add bay leaves to the mixture.

Step 3: Marinate the Meat

Put meat cubes into a Ziploc bag or plastic container that fits all the meat snugly. Pour in the marinade ensuring all pieces are coated well.

Step 4: Chill Time!

Marinate meat in the refrigerator for at least 4-6 hours, but longer is fine if needed.

Step 5: Preheat Your Grill

When ready to cook, drain kabobs while preheating your grill to medium-high heat.

Step 6: Skewer the Meat

Assemble the marinated meat tightly on skewers and let them come to room temperature while grilling heat increases.

Step 7: Grill Kabobs

Cook kabobs until desired doneness is reached:
– Approximately 8-10 minutes for rare,
– 10-12 minutes for medium rare,
– 12-15 minutes for medium.

Turn kabobs when nice grill marks appear.

Step 8: Check Doneness

You can easily remove one piece of meat to check doneness or use a digital meat thermometer for accurate results.

Step 9: Rest Before Serving

Allow kabobs to rest for about 5 minutes before serving so juices can redistribute, enhancing flavor!

How to Serve Marinated Beef Kabobs

Serving marinated beef kabobs is a delightful experience that allows you to get creative. These flavorful skewers can be paired with various sides and garnishes to enhance their taste and presentation.

Fresh Salad

• A light salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness and crunch. Drizzle with a lemon vinaigrette for extra zing.

Grilled Vegetables

• Pair your kabobs with grilled veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions. Their smoky flavor complements the savory beef beautifully.

Rice or Quinoa

• Serve your kabobs over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. This adds texture and absorbs the delicious juices from the meat.

Flatbreads

• Offer warm flatbreads or pita on the side. They are perfect for wrapping around the beef kabobs or for dipping in any leftover marinade.

Dipping Sauces

• Provide a variety of dipping sauces such as tzatziki, chimichurri, or barbecue sauce. These add an extra layer of flavor and allow guests to customize their bites.

Pickled Vegetables

• Add some tangy pickled vegetables to your plate for a burst of flavor. They provide a nice contrast to the rich beef.

How to Perfect Marinated Beef Kabobs

Making the perfect marinated beef kabobs requires attention to detail. Use these tips to elevate your grilling game.

• Choose Quality Meat – Select lean cuts like sirloin or tenderloin for tender results.
• Marinate Longer – For maximum flavor, let the meat marinate overnight if possible.
• Skewer Carefully – Alternate meat with vegetables on skewers to ensure even cooking.
• Preheat Your Grill – A hot grill creates those beautiful char marks and seals in juices.
• Avoid Overcrowding – Give each kabob space on the grill for even cooking.
• Rest Before Serving – Allow kabobs to rest for 5 minutes after grilling; this helps retain their juices.

Best Side Dishes for Marinated Beef Kabobs

Pairing side dishes with marinated beef kabobs can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement the flavors perfectly.

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower – A creamy low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes that pairs well with grilled meats.
2. Cucumber Yogurt Salad – Refreshing and cool, this salad balances the richness of the beef kabobs nicely.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with savory flavors.
4. Mediterranean Couscous – Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and lemon offers a light yet flavorful side.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with butter is always a crowd-pleaser during summer cookouts.
6. Sautéed Green Beans – Bright green beans sautéed in olive oil add color and crunch to your plate.
7. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds texture and helps cut through the richness of the meat.
8. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful peppers filled with rice or quinoa make a nutritious and visually appealing side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making marinated beef kabobs, even small errors can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to be aware of:

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing enough time for the meat to marinate can result in less flavor. Aim for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
• Using Tough Cuts of Beef: Choosing the wrong cut can lead to chewy kabobs. Stick to tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye for the best results.
• Overcrowding the Skewers: Packing meat too tightly on skewers prevents even cooking. Leave some space between pieces to ensure they grill evenly.
• Not Preheating the Grill: Failing to heat the grill adequately can lead to sticking and uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill to medium-high before adding kabobs.
• Ignoring Doneness Levels: Cooking kabobs without checking doneness can result in overcooked or undercooked meat. Use a digital meat thermometer for precision.
• Forgetting to Rest the Kabobs: Cutting into kabobs immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape. Let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store marinated beef kabobs in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure that they are cooled down before sealing them in a container.

Freezing Marinated Beef Kabobs

• Freeze kabobs before cooking for optimal freshness.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Marinated Beef Kabobs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking often until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Sear kabobs until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best beef for marinated beef kabobs?

The best cuts are those that are tender, such as sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin. These will give you flavorful and juicy kabobs.

How long should I marinate beef kabobs?

For ideal flavor, marinate your beef kabobs for at least 4-6 hours. If possible, overnight is even better!

Can I make marinated beef kabobs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and marinate your beef ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for later use.

How do I know when my marinated beef kabobs are done?

You can check doneness with a digital meat thermometer or by cutting into one piece of meat. Ideal temperatures are around 130°F (54°C) for rare and 145°F (63°C) for medium.

Final Thoughts

These marinated beef kabobs are not only tasty but also versatile, making them perfect for any grilling occasion. Feel free to experiment with different marinades or vegetables on the skewers. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a quiet night at home, this recipe promises satisfying flavors with every bite!