The Most Flavorful Ground Beef Kebabs Recipe for Summer Grilling

Juicy ground beef kebabs bring a burst of Mediterranean excitement to your dinner table.

Skewers loaded with seasoned meat promise an adventure for your taste buds.

Rich spices dance through each tender morsel, creating a symphony of flavors.

Some ingredients blend seamlessly, transforming simple proteins into something extraordinary.

Charred edges and succulent centers make these kebabs irresistible for anyone seeking a quick, delicious meal.

The magic happens when fragrant herbs meet perfectly seasoned meat.

You can easily master this dish with just a few simple techniques.

Fire up the grill and let the culinary journey begin!

Why Ground Beef Kebabs Are So Juicy

• Boost Quick Weeknight Meals: Ground beef kebabs deliver a speedy dinner solution that transforms ordinary ground meat into a flavorful, exciting dish in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy families seeking delicious yet hassle-free meals.
• Master Easy Grilling Technique: These kebabs require minimal cooking skills, making them ideal for novice grillers wanting to create restaurant-quality results with simple ingredients and straightforward preparation steps.
• Customize Global Flavor Explosion: Packed with Middle Eastern-inspired spices like cumin, paprika, and cayenne, these kebabs offer a versatile recipe that can be adapted to personal taste preferences or dietary needs while maintaining incredible taste.
• Crowd-Pleasing Party Starter: Kebabs work brilliantly for casual gatherings, potlucks, and summer barbecues, allowing guests to enjoy handheld, protein-rich bites that are both impressive and incredibly satisfying.

What Goes Into Ground Beef Kebabs

• Ground Beef: Rich protein foundation for the kebabs, choose 80/20 lean to fat ratio for juicy results.

• Onion, Garlic, Parsley: Fresh flavor boosters, finely chop for even distribution and smooth texture.

• Cumin, Paprika, Coriander, Cayenne, Salt, Pepper: Warm and complex spice blend that adds depth and Mediterranean character, use fresh ground spices for best flavor.

• Olive Oil: Helps bind ingredients and adds moisture, use extra virgin for best taste.

• Tzatziki, Hummus, Flatbread: Classic Mediterranean sides that complement the kebabs, can be homemade or store-bought.

• Skewers: Metal or wooden, soak wooden skewers in water to prevent burning.
• Grill: Medium-high heat for perfect caramelization and cooking.

Steps To Make Ground Beef Kebabs

Step 1: Blend Aromatic Flavors

• Ground beef
• Finely chopped onion
• Minced garlic
• Chopped fresh parsley
• Ground cumin
• Paprika
• Ground coriander
• Cayenne pepper
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Olive oil

Use your hands to blend ingredients softly, ensuring even distribution without overworking the meat.

Step 2: Shape Delectable Skewers

Divide the seasoned mixture into 4-6 equal portions. Mold each section into elongated oval shapes around skewers. Press firmly to ensure the meat adheres securely, creating smooth, uniform kebabs.

Step 3: Fire Up the Grill

Prepare your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking and create beautiful grill marks.

Step 4: Sizzle to Perfection

Place kebabs on the heated grill. Cook for 10-12 minutes, rotating periodically to ensure even browning. The kebabs are ready when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F and develop a delicious golden-brown exterior.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Accompany with creamy tzatziki, smooth hummus, warm flatbread, or serve atop a fresh crisp salad.

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, sprinkle fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon just before serving.

Tips For Cooking Ground Beef Kebabs

• Gentle Mixing Technique: Handle ground beef mixture delicately to prevent tough kebabs. Use fingertips lightly and stop mixing as soon as ingredients are combined for tender, juicy results.
• Perfect Skewering Strategy: Moisten hands with water before shaping meat around skewers to prevent sticking and help meat adhere smoothly. Ensure uniform thickness for even cooking.
• Temperature Precision: Use a meat thermometer to confirm internal temperature reaches 160°F, guaranteeing safe and fully cooked kebabs without drying out the meat.
• Flavor Enhancement Hack: Marinate ground beef mixture for 30 minutes before grilling to intensify spice absorption and develop deeper, more complex flavors.
• Serving Versatility: Experiment with alternative protein options like ground lamb or turkey for diverse dietary preferences while maintaining similar spice profiles and cooking techniques.

How To Store Ground Beef Kebabs Properly

• Refrigerate leftover kebabs in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking.
• Wrap kebabs separately or stack with parchment paper between each piece to prevent sticking.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ensuring they remain fresh and flavorful.
• When reheating, use a skillet or grill pan on medium heat to maintain moisture and restore the crispy exterior.
• Avoid microwaving, which can make the meat tough and dry.
• Freeze cooled kebabs in a freezer-safe container or sealed plastic bag for maximum 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve texture and taste.
• Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming stored kebabs, and trust your senses if something seems off.

Tasty Sides For Ground Beef Kebabs

• Pair with Zesty Mediterranean Tzatziki: Creamy, tangy yogurt sauce perfectly balances the rich, spiced ground beef kebabs, adding a cool contrast to the grilled meat's warmth.
• Complement with Crisp Greek Salad: Fresh cucumber, tomatoes, red onions, and feta cheese provide a light, refreshing accompaniment that cuts through the kebabs' robust flavors.
• Match with Smooth Hummus and Warm Pita: Smooth chickpea dip and soft, pillowy flatbread create an ideal texture combination, allowing diners to scoop and enjoy the kebabs in a delightful handheld experience.
• Enhance with Chilled Assyrtiko Wine: Bright, citrusy Greek white wine with mineral notes cleanses the palate and complements the kebabs' smoky, spiced profile, offering a perfect Mediterranean dining moment.

Ground Beef Kebab Flavor Variations

• Spicy Mediterranean Fusion: Swap cayenne with harissa paste and add chopped mint for a North African-inspired kick that brings bold, zesty flavors to the classic kebab.
• Greek-Style Lamb Remix: Replace ground beef with ground lamb, incorporate crumbled feta cheese into the meat mixture, and sprinkle dried oregano for an authentic Greek profile.
• Smoky Chipotle Version: Mix in minced chipotle peppers and adobo sauce, replace parsley with cilantro, and serve with a fresh corn and avocado salsa for a Mexican-inspired transformation.
• Middle Eastern Herb Celebration: Increase parsley and add fresh dill, replace olive oil with za'atar-infused oil, and garnish with sumac for an extra layer of traditional Middle Eastern complexity.

Ground Beef Kebabs FAQ Guide

• What makes these Ground Beef Kebabs special?

These kebabs are packed with Middle Eastern spices like cumin, paprika, and cayenne, creating a bold and aromatic flavor profile that sets them apart from ordinary grilled meat.

• Can I prepare the kebabs in advance?

Absolutely! You can mix and shape the kebabs up to a day ahead, cover them, and refrigerate until you’re ready to grill. This makes meal preparation super convenient.

• What if I don't have a grill?

No worries! You can cook these kebabs on a stovetop grill pan or even bake them in the oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through cooking.

• Are these kebabs gluten-free?

Yes, the basic recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any additional sauces or sides you serve are also gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions.

Ground Beef Kebabs Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 31 reviews

• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Sizzling Middle Eastern ground beef kebabs bring explosive flavors straight from Lebanon’s culinary traditions. Succulent spices and grilled perfection promise a delightful meal that you can savor with warm pita and fresh herbs.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Proteins:

• 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef (80/20 recommended)

Herbs and Spices:

• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Aromatics and Oil:

• 1 small onion, finely grated or minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Cooking Tools:

• Metal skewers
• Wooden skewers (if using, soak in water before grilling)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the meat mixture by gently combining ground beef with finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, cumin, paprika, coriander, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Drizzle olive oil and fold ingredients together carefully to maintain meat’s tender texture, avoiding excessive compression.
2. Portion the seasoned meat mixture into equal segments, then methodically shape each portion into elongated, uniform cylinders around metal or wooden skewers. Apply gentle pressure to ensure the meat adheres securely to the skewer without compacting too densely.
3. Preheat the outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high temperature, creating an ideal cooking surface with subtle char potential. Lightly brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking and promote beautiful grill marks.
4. Carefully position the prepared kebabs on the heated grill, allowing each side to develop a rich, caramelized exterior. Rotate periodically to ensure even cooking and achieve a consistent golden-brown coloration throughout.
5. Monitor the internal temperature, cooking until the meat reaches a safe 160°F. This typically requires 10-12 minutes of total grilling time, depending on the thickness of the kebabs.
6. Remove the kebabs from heat and let them rest briefly, allowing the juices to redistribute and ensure maximum tenderness. Plate alongside traditional Mediterranean accompaniments like creamy tzatziki, smooth hummus, warm flatbread, or a crisp, refreshing salad.

Notes

• Ensure meat mixture stays cold while preparing to maintain texture and prevent bacterial growth.
• Wet hands slightly before shaping kebabs to prevent meat from sticking and create smoother surfaces.
• Skip cayenne for kid-friendly version or reduce spice level by using mild paprika instead.
• For gluten-free option, serve with lettuce wraps or gluten-free flatbread to accommodate dietary restrictions.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 75 mg
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 5 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg