Published on January 4, 2026
Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4-5 · Technique: Grilling · Storage: Store in refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Quick Answer
To make flavorful Ground Beef Kabobs, mix ground beef with spices, shape onto skewers, and grill until perfectly cooked.
As the crisp autumn breeze sweeps through the vibrant streets of New York City, the excitement of the upcoming holiday season fills the air. Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations are just around the corner, inspiring gatherings filled with laughter, joy, and of course, delicious food. One dish that never fails to impress my friends and family during these festive get-togethers is my flavorful Ground Beef Kabobs. Not only are they a treat for the senses, but they’re also incredibly versatile, making them the perfect choice for both casual and elegant occasions.
A Flavorful Crowd-Pleaser
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously juicy ground beef kabobs that are sure to impress your guests.
- Versatile enough to suit casual gatherings or elegant dinner parties.
- Easy to customize with your favorite herbs and spices for added flair.
- Quick to prepare and perfect for grilling, making them an ideal choice for busy hosts.
- A fun way to engage your guests by letting them build their own mini feast.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients for a mouthwatering experience:
For the Kabobs
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for optimal juiciness)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes)
How to Make Ground Beef Kabobs (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to create flavorful and juicy ground beef kabobs that everyone will love.
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley. The aromatic spices will meld together, filling your kitchen with delightful scents.
Step 2: Mix and Mold
Using your hands, thoroughly mix all the ingredients until they’re just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can lead to tough kabobs. The mixture should feel a bit sticky but hold together well.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. A cast-iron grill pan is great for achieving those charred stripes that make kabobs irresistible.
Step 4: Shape the Kabobs
Divide the mixture into equal portions (about ¾-inch thick) and mold them around the skewers. Aim for about 4-5 kabobs per pound of beef, and admire the vibrant colors of the parsley against the rich beef.
Step 5: Grill the Kabobs
Once your grill is hot, place the kabobs on and let them cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Savor the moment as the meat sears, and look for a beautiful brown crust before flipping.
Step 6: Check for Doneness
After about 10-12 minutes total, the kabobs should be perfectly cooked with a slight jiggle in the center, yet firm to the touch.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in kabobs that burst with flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the beef: This can lead to tough kabobs; mix until just combined.
- Not soaking wooden skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
- Skipping the resting period: Letting the kabobs rest allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them moist.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- To add extra flavor, consider marinating the ground beef mixture in the spices for a few hours before molding them onto skewers.
- Experiment with different herbs or add in some finely chopped bell peppers for a pop of color.
- For a fun twist, try mixing in a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for a savory depth.
Variations
- Substitute ground turkey or lamb for a different flavor profile.
- Add spices like cayenne pepper or chili powder for an extra kick.
- Include diced vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms in the meat mixture.
How to Serve
- Serve your ground beef kabobs with warm pita bread.
- Add a dollop of tzatziki for a cool, creamy contrast.
- Pair with a side of your favorite roasted vegetables.
- Encourage guests to build their own mini feast with various toppings.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the beef mixture a few hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to mold onto skewers.
- Storage: Store cooked kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat to prevent drying out.
- Freezing: Uncooked kabobs can be frozen for up to 3 months; wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Through numerous attempts at perfecting this recipe, I realized how crucial it is to balance flavors and textures. Every time I grill these kabobs, I’m reminded that they’re not just a meal—they’re a conversation starter and a way to bring people together during this festive season.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4-5 kabobs · Serving Size: 1 kabob
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~250 calories · 20g protein · 5g carbs · 18g fat
Flavorful Ground Beef Kabobs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley.
- Using your hands, mix all the ingredients until just combined. Form the mixture around skewers, aiming for 4-5 kabobs.
- Preheat your grill over medium-high heat.
- Grill kabobs for about 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through and browned.
- Let kabobs rest for a few minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of meat for these kabobs?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or lamb for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the meat used.
2. How do I ensure my kabobs are juicy?
Avoid overmixing the meat and be sure to let the kabobs rest after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist end result.
3. What is the best way to season the ground beef?
Incorporating spices like cumin, smoked paprika, and coriander, along with fresh herbs such as parsley, enhances the flavor significantly. Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings!
4. Can I prepare the kabobs in advance?
Absolutely! You can mold the kabobs and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before grilling. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months before cooking.
5. What can I serve with the ground beef kabobs?
These kabobs pair wonderfully with warm pita bread, tzatziki, and roasted vegetables. Consider creating a mini feast where guests can customize their servings!
