Grilled Beef Skewers are tasty bites of tender beef grilled on sticks with simple spices. They’re perfect for outdoor eating and can be enjoyed with fresh veggies or bread.
I like to make them when friends come over. I’ve found that marinating the beef ahead of time makes them extra juicy and flavorful.
For a quick meal, I serve these with a side salad or some rice—easy, filling, and great for summer BBQs!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: I use sirloin or ribeye for tender, flavorful skewers. Keep the beef cold to make it easier to cut. If you prefer a leaner option, sirloin works great. For a budget-friendly choice, use stew meat, just cut into smaller pieces.
Bell Peppers: Red or green peppers add color and sweetness. I like red for a touch of natural sugar. If you don’t have peppers, zucchini or mushrooms are good substitutes that also grill well and add flavor.
Onions: Red or yellow onions lend a nice sweetness when grilled. I soak onions for a few minutes to mellow their sharpness. If you don’t have onions, shallots work as a milder, similar option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic provides a bold flavor. I crush it to release more aroma. If you’re out, garlic powder can work—use about half the amount called for fresh.
Olive Oil & Marinade: Olive oil helps keep meat juicy. I add a splash with herbs and spices for added flavor. If you don’t have olive oil, any neutral oil like vegetable oil is fine, just don’t skip the marinade’s acid for tenderness.
How do I thread the skewers without tearing the meat?
Make sure to cut the beef into uniform pieces, about 1-1.5 inches. Soak your skewers for 30 minutes if they’re bamboo to prevent burning. Leave a little space between pieces; this helps heat circulate evenly and reduces tearing.
- Thread meat pieces first, leaving some space on each side. This keeps things sturdy and prevents tearing.
- Add vegetables next, also spaced apart. Don’t overload—you want everything to grill evenly.
- Keep firm but gentle as you slide on ingredients to avoid ripping the meat or vegetables.
How to Make Grilled Beef Skewers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Marinade
- 1 pound beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Other
- 8 metal or wooden skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
How Much Time Will You Need?
15 minutes prep + 10 minutes cooking + 30 minutes marinating = 55 minutes total
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade
Mix olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano in a bowl. Stir well to combine. This will flavor the beef.
2. Marinate the Beef
Place beef cubes in the marinade. Toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
3. Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking.
4. Thread the Beef
Thread beef cubes onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers
Cook skewers on the grill for 4-5 minutes per side. Turn occasionally until beef is browned and cooked to your liking.
6. Serve
Remove skewers from the grill. Let rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with your favorite sides. Enjoy!
