Juicy, smoky, and full of flavor, these ground beef kabobs are a fun twist on classic grilled burgers.
Perfect for backyard cookouts, family dinners, or game day appetizers, they’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
They’re smoky, tender, and packed with seasoning.
Simple ingredients, ready in under 30 minutes.
Fun handheld skewers make them great for parties.
Pair with dipping sauces for endless flavor combinations.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Ground beef (70/30 blend) keeps the kabobs juicy and flavorful.
Egg binds the mixture so the kabobs hold together on the grill.
Minced onion adds moisture and a sweet bite.
Dry rub or green chile rub seasons the beef with bold flavor.
Pecan or hickory wood chunks add that smoky, backyard BBQ aroma.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Don’t overmix the beef mixture—too much mixing makes kabobs tough.
Shape kabobs evenly so they cook at the same rate.
Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness (165°F).
How to Make Ground Beef Kabobs
Step 1 – Preheat the grill
Heat your grill to 400°F with pecan or hickory chunks for smoke flavor.
Step 2 – Mix the beef
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, onion, and dry rub until just mixed.
Step 3 – Shape the kabobs
Use a ¼ cup measure to divide the mixture.
Shape into oblong patties (about 4 x 2 x ½ inch).
Insert skewers through the center.
Step 4 – Grill the kabobs
Place kabobs over indirect heat.
Grill with the lid closed for 5–8 minutes.
Flip and cook until internal temp reaches 165°F.
Step 5 – Serve hot
Transfer kabobs to a platter, garnish with parsley, and serve with burger sauce or BBQ sauce.
What to Serve Them With
Warm pita bread or flatbread for a Mediterranean twist.
Grilled veggies like zucchini, peppers, or onions.
Classic sides like potato salad, coleslaw, or corn on the cob.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap beef for ground lamb or chicken for a lighter option.
Add minced garlic, cumin, or smoked paprika for deeper flavor.
Mix in breadcrumbs if you want extra binding.
Try tzatziki, hummus, or spicy mayo instead of BBQ sauce.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Freeze raw kabobs (shaped on skewers) for up to 2 months—grill straight from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes cooking time.
FAQs
Can I bake these instead of grilling?
Yes, bake at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What kind of skewers work best?
Both metal and wooden skewers work—just soak wooden ones first.
Do I have to use 70/30 ground beef?
Higher-fat beef keeps kabobs juicy, but you can use leaner beef (add breadcrumbs if needed).
How do I keep kabobs from falling apart?
Don’t skip the egg, and make sure patties are firmly shaped before grilling.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, shape kabobs and refrigerate up to 24 hours before grilling.
Final Thoughts
Ground beef kabobs are a simple yet delicious way to enjoy grilled beef with smoky flavor and a fun twist.
Serve them hot with your favorite sauces, and they’ll be the hit of any cookout or gathering.
Ground Beef Kabobs
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat grill to 400°F with pecan or hickory chunks.
- Mix ground beef, egg, onion, and dry rub in a bowl.
- Divide into portions (¼ cup each) and shape into oblong patties. Insert skewers.
- Grill over indirect heat for 5–8 minutes. Flip and cook to 165°F internal temp.
- Remove, garnish with parsley, and serve with dipping sauces.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/ground-beef-kabobs/
Notes
- Avoid overmixing the beef to keep kabobs tender.
- Swap green chile rub for Cajun seasoning, garlic herb, or your favorite spice blend.
- Great with pita bread, grilled veggies, or a fresh salad.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.