Ground Beef Kebabs

Ground Beef Kebabs are a flavorful, juicy, and easy-to-make grilled favorite that deliver bold taste with minimal ingredients. Blended with herbs, garlic, and spices, the ground beef is shaped onto skewers and grilled until perfectly charred on the outside and tender inside. Whether you’re serving them with flatbreads, salads, or rice, these kebabs are a versatile and satisfying addition to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold, savory flavor with customizable seasoning
• Juicy texture thanks to ground beef’s natural fat content
• Easy to make with pantry staples
• Great for grilling, broiling, or pan-searing
• Pairs well with a wide range of sauces and sides
• Fun to serve at BBQs, cookouts, or casual dinners
• Naturally gluten-free (depending on binder used)
• Kid-friendly and meal-prep friendly
• Can be made with or without skewers
• Delicious with Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, or South Asian flair

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef (80/20 recommended for juiciness)
• Garlic (minced)
• Onion (grated or finely chopped)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro (chopped)
• Ground cumin
• Ground coriander (optional)
• Paprika or smoked paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Optional: red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat
• Optional binder: breadcrumbs or egg (for extra hold)
• Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)

directions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, garlic, onion, parsley, and spices. Add breadcrumbs or an egg if needed to help the mixture bind.
2. Mix gently with your hands until well combined. Do not overmix.
3. Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape each around a skewer, forming long, sausage-like kebabs.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates.
5. Grill kebabs for 4–5 minutes per side, turning gently, until fully cooked and nicely charred. Internal temperature should reach 160°F.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4–6 kebabs, serving 4 people.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

• Add chopped mint, dill, or oregano for different herb profiles
• Mix in a spoonful of yogurt for added moisture
• Use lamb or a beef-lamb blend for a Mediterranean twist
• Add chopped jalapeños or chili for spice
• Serve with tzatziki, garlic sauce, or chimichurri
• Pair with pita, naan, rice, or salad for a full meal
• Make mini versions for appetizers or party platters

storage/reheating

Store leftover kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet, oven, or microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze cooked kebabs for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make ground beef kebabs without skewers?

Yes! Shape the meat into patties or logs and grill or pan-sear them directly—same great flavor.

Why are my kebabs falling apart?

Try adding a binder like breadcrumbs or an egg. Also, chilling the formed kebabs before grilling helps them hold their shape.

Can I bake these instead of grilling?

Yes—bake at 400°F on a foil-lined baking sheet for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.

What kind of beef is best for kebabs?

An 80/20 ground beef blend gives the best balance of flavor and moisture. Leaner meat may be drier.

Are these kebabs spicy?

Not unless you add heat. Customize the spice level with red pepper flakes or chili powder.

Can I make the mix ahead of time?

Yes—mix the meat and spices up to 24 hours in advance and store in the fridge until ready to cook.

How do I serve ground beef kebabs?

Serve with rice, flatbread, salad, grilled vegetables, or your favorite dips like hummus or garlic sauce.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken?

Yes, but add a bit more fat (like olive oil or yogurt) and use a binder, as poultry is leaner and may dry out.

What’s the best way to keep kebabs from sticking to the grill?

Oil the grates well and let the kebabs sear before trying to flip them. Use a fish spatula or thin metal spatula for easy handling.

Are these kebabs freezer-friendly?

Yes—freeze raw or cooked kebabs, wrapped tightly. Thaw before cooking or reheating.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Kebabs are a simple, delicious way to enjoy grilled flavor with minimal effort. With endless seasoning possibilities and quick cook time, they’re perfect for busy weeknights, summer grilling, or meal prep. Serve them with your favorite sides and sauces, and you’ve got a hearty, flavorful meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

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