These marinated beef kabobs are a mouthwatering delight, perfect for grilling season or any special occasion. With their rich flavors and juicy tenderness, they make a fantastic low-carb meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply treating your family to a delicious dinner, these kabobs are versatile enough to impress at any gathering.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Beef
- For the Marinade
- How to Make Marinated Beef Kabobs
- Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Step 2: Make the Marinade
- Step 3: Marinate the Meat
- Step 4: Refrigerate
- Step 5: Preheat Grill
- Step 6: Skewer the Meat
- Step 7: Grill Kabobs
- Step 8: Check Doneness
- Step 9: Rest Before Serving
- How to Serve Marinated Beef Kabobs
- On a Skewer
- With Fresh Vegetables
- Over Rice or Quinoa
- With Dipping Sauces
- In a Wrap
- How to Perfect Marinated Beef Kabobs
- Best Side Dishes for Marinated Beef Kabobs
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Marinated Beef Kabobs
- Reheating Marinated Beef Kabobs
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I choose the best beef for kabobs?
- Can I use different marinades for beef kabobs?
- What vegetables pair well with marinated beef kabobs?
- How long should I marinate beef kabobs?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort with simple steps, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
- Flavor Packed: The marinade infuses the beef with rich flavors of balsamic vinegar and herbs, ensuring every bite is delicious.
- Perfect for Grilling: Ideal for outdoor cooking, these kabobs bring a smoky flavor that enhances your dining experience.
- Low-Carb Delight: With only 5 grams of carbohydrates per serving, this dish fits well into low-carb diets while still being hearty and fulfilling.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the skewers for an even more colorful and nutritious meal.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your marinated beef kabobs, gather the necessary tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skewers
- Mixing bowl
- Ziploc bag or plastic container with lid
- Grill
Importance of Each Tool
- Skewers: These allow you to easily grill multiple pieces of meat at once, ensuring even cooking.
- Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl makes it easy to combine your marinade ingredients thoroughly.
- Ziploc bag or plastic container with lid: Perfect for marinating the beef evenly while minimizing mess.
- Grill: Essential for achieving that delicious grilled flavor; outdoor grills work best but indoor grills can also be used.

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)
For the Marinade
- 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
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.
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
11. Add bay leaves
Step 3: Marinate the Meat
Put meat cubes into the smallest Ziploc bag (or plastic container with a snap-tight lid) that will fit all the meat, then pour in the marinade.
Step 4: Refrigerate
Marinate meat in the refrigerator for at least 4-6 hours (or longer if you’re away).
Step 5: Preheat Grill
When ready to cook, drain kabobs while preheating grill to medium-high heat (you should only hold your hand there for a few seconds).
Step 6: Skewer the Meat
Put meat tightly on skewers and let it come to room temperature while the grill heats.
Step 7: Grill Kabobs
Grill kabobs until they reach your desired doneness:
– Approximately 8-10 minutes for rare,
– 10-12 minutes for medium rare,
– 12-15 minutes for medium.
Step 8: Check Doneness
It’s easy to check if one piece is done by cutting into it or using a digital meat thermometer.
Step 9: Rest Before Serving
Let kabobs rest about 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices.
Enjoy these flavorful marinated beef kabobs as part of your next gathering or cozy dinner!
How to Serve Marinated Beef Kabobs
Marinated beef kabobs are versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a casual dinner, these kabobs will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
On a Skewer
- Serve the kabobs directly on skewers for a fun, casual presentation. Each person can easily grab their own skewer.
With Fresh Vegetables
- Pair the kabobs with grilled or fresh vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes. This adds color and nutrition to your meal.
Over Rice or Quinoa
- Place the kabobs over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. This creates a hearty dish that balances the protein from the beef with healthy grains.
With Dipping Sauces
- Offer a variety of dipping sauces such as chimichurri or tzatziki. These sauces add extra flavor and can enhance your dining experience.
In a Wrap
- For a quick meal, wrap the beef kabobs in pita bread or tortillas with some fresh greens and sauces. This makes for an easy-to-eat option.
How to Perfect Marinated Beef Kabobs
Achieving the ideal marinated beef kabobs involves careful preparation and cooking techniques. Here are some tips for perfect results every time.
- Choose Quality Meat: Select lean cuts of beef such as sirloin or tenderloin for tenderness and flavor.
- Marinate Longer: Allow the meat to marinate for at least 6 hours, or overnight if possible, to absorb all those delicious flavors.
- Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before placing the kabobs on it; this helps achieve those beautiful grill marks while sealing in juices.
- Don’t Overcrowd Skewers: Space out the meat on skewers to ensure even cooking and that each piece gets adequate heat.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Check for doneness using a digital meat thermometer to avoid undercooking or overcooking.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the kabobs rest for about 5 minutes after grilling; this allows juices to redistribute, making them more succulent.
Best Side Dishes for Marinated Beef Kabobs
Pairing side dishes with marinated beef kabobs can enhance your meal’s overall flavor profile. Consider these delightful options:
- Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
A creamy and low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that pairs well with beef flavors. - Grilled Asparagus
Lightly seasoned asparagus spears grilled until tender add a nice crunch and freshness to your plate. - Cucumber Salad
A refreshing salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion dressed in olive oil and vinegar for brightness. - Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized provide sweetness that complements savory beef perfectly. - Tabbouleh Salad
This herby salad made from bulgur wheat, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and lemon juice adds freshness to each bite. - Coleslaw
A tangy coleslaw offers a crunchy contrast to the tender kebabs while adding vibrant color to your meal. - Quinoa Pilaf
Fluffy quinoa cooked with spices and herbs is nutritious and pairs well with grilled meats like these kebabs. - Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
A protein-packed salad featuring chickpeas, olives, feta (or vegan cheese), and veggies tossed in lemon dressing brings Mediterranean flair to your table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Marinated Beef Kabobs, it’s easy to make a few mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.
- Not trimming the meat properly: Leaving too much fat can result in greasy kabobs. Always trim visible fat for a leaner, tastier bite.
- Skipping the marination time: Rushing this step can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to marinate the beef for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Overcrowding skewers: Placing too much meat on each skewer may prevent even cooking. Ensure there is space between pieces to allow heat circulation.
- Ignoring grill temperature: Cooking on a grill that’s too hot or too cold can ruin your kabobs. Preheat your grill to medium-high for perfect searing.
- Not resting the kabobs before serving: Cutting into them right away can let juices escape. Let them rest for about 5 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover kabobs in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Marinated Beef Kabobs
- Use freezer-safe bags or containers to prevent freezer burn.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Marinated Beef Kabobs
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place kabobs on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat in short intervals, checking frequently until warm.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Marinated Beef Kabobs.
How do I choose the best beef for kabobs?
Look for cuts like sirloin or ribeye, as they have great flavor and tenderness when grilled.
Can I use different marinades for beef kabobs?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different marinades by using your favorite spices and sauces tailored to your taste.
What vegetables pair well with marinated beef kabobs?
Bell peppers, onions, and zucchini are excellent choices that complement the beef well.
How long should I marinate beef kabobs?
For optimal flavor, marinate your beef cubes for at least 4-6 hours, but overnight is even better!
Final Thoughts
These Marinated Beef Kabobs are not only flavorful but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can customize them with different vegetables or marinades based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try at your next gathering!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Marinated Beef Kabobs
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 (8 kabobs) 1x
Description
Indulge in the juicy flavors of Marinated Beef Kabobs, perfect for grilling season or any special occasion. These tender beef skewers are infused with a delicious marinade featuring balsamic vinegar and aromatic herbs, ensuring each bite is flavorful and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a family dinner, these kabobs are versatile enough to impress everyone at the table. Plus, with only 5 grams of carbohydrates per serving, they fit seamlessly into low-carb meal plans. Customize your kabobs by adding your favorite vegetables for an even more colorful dish. Get ready to elevate your mealtime experience!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean beef (sirloin or tenderloin)
- 2 tablespoons beef stock
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- black pepper, to taste
- 2 bay leaves
Instructions
- Trim visible fat from the beef and cut it into 2-inch cubes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine beef stock, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and black pepper.
- Place beef cubes in a Ziploc bag or container and pour in the marinade; seal and refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Skewer marinated beef tightly onto skewers.
- Grill kabobs for approximately 8-15 minutes based on desired doneness.
- Let kabobs rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 kabob (90g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg