Grilled Beef Shish Kabobs

By Chloe Ramirez

Published •

Shish Kabobs

I absolutely love how grilled beef shish kabobs bring together tender, marinated meat with vibrant vegetables for that smoky, savory bite. It’s perfect for summer evenings on the patio. The red wine and teriyaki marinade infuses the beef with deep flavor while keeping it juicy. Plus, the colorful bell peppers add a slight crunch that balances the richness perfectly.

As a busy mom juggling work and family, I appreciate how these shish kabobs come together quickly. They fit right into my weeknight dinners without sacrificing any taste. You can prep them ahead and grill in under 15 minutes. They store well in the fridge for easy reheating too.

Guests always rave about the fresh, charred vegetables paired with the seasoned beef. It’s a reliable recipe that feels special yet simple. Whether for family barbecues or meal prepping, shish kabobs never disappoint. They make dinnertime less stressful and more enjoyable for everyone.

Why I Love This Recipe

I turn to this shish kabobs recipe whenever I need a fast, flavorful dinner. It preps in just 20 minutes and grills up in 15, which fits perfectly into my hectic schedule as a working mom. No more rushing around the kitchen at the end of the day.

The marinade works magic on the beef. It tenderizes the meat easily and adds that savory depth without any fuss. Plus, the vibrant vegetables bring color and nutrition to the plate. Everyone gets their veggies, even picky eaters in my house.

Best of all, it’s versatile. I swap in low-sodium sauces for my family’s diet needs, and it still tastes amazing. These shish kabobs always leave us satisfied with their comforting, smoky flavors. They’re great for weeknights or weekend gatherings.

Here are a few reasons this recipe stays in my rotation:

  • Easy marination for tender results. Just mix and let it sit.
  • Vibrant veggies for balanced nutrition. They add crunch and freshness.
  • Grill-ready in under an hour for stress-free cooking. Fire it up and relax.

Shish Kabobs Ingredients

I always get excited about the ingredients for these shish kabobs. They come together so simply yet create amazing flavor. The beef’s richness gets a boost from umami in the soy and teriyaki sauces. Meanwhile, the vegetables add fresh crunch and bright colors to every bite.

Choosing fresh, high-quality produce and lean beef cuts makes a big difference. It elevates the taste and keeps things tender. As a busy mom, I love how these picks save time without skimping on quality. No more bland meals after a long day.

Let’s break down what you’ll need. First, beef like top sirloin forms the hearty, protein-packed base. It turns juicy and flavorful after marinating, especially for picky eaters who need substance.

Next, low-sodium soy sauce brings savory depth and just enough saltiness. It tenderizes the meat gently without overwhelming the dish. I use it to keep things heart-friendly.

Teriyaki sauce adds sweet and tangy notes that balance everything out. It makes the marinade pop with minimal effort. So handy on weeknights.

Steak seasoning infuses robust, herby spices for that enhanced grilled taste. Your favorite blend works best here.

Red wine tenderizes the beef while lending a subtle fruity acidity. It deepens the flavors beautifully.

For veggies, green bell pepper offers crisp texture and mild freshness to complement the beef. Red bell pepper brings vibrant color and sweet crunch. Yellow bell pepper adds a pop of sweetness and tenderness when grilled.

Mushrooms provide earthy umami and meaty texture. They soak up the marinade so well. Onion delivers sharp, caramelized sweetness as it grills.

Season with salt for balanced vegetable flavor. Black pepper gives a subtle kick to the savoriness.

Finally, wooden or metal skewers are essential for easy assembly and even grilling.

The complete list of ingredients and exact measurements can be found in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

I’ve found that gathering the right tools makes whipping up shish kabobs so much easier, especially on busy evenings. No need for fancy gadgets here. These basics keep things simple and stress-free in my kitchen.

First, you’ll want a grill for that medium-high heat cooking. It gives the perfect smoky char. If weather’s bad or you prefer indoors, a stovetop grill pan works great as an alternative.

Skewers are next. Go for wooden ones, but soak them first to avoid burning. Metal skewers thread easily too and reuse well for future barbecues.

A large bowl or resealable bag holds the beef during marinating. I love the bag for less mess and easy storage in the fridge.

Don’t forget a sharp knife and cutting board. They make cubing the meat and veggies quick and safe. Saves time when fatigue sets in after a long day.

A whisk mixes the marinade smoothly. It blends everything fast without lumps.

Finally, tongs let you flip the shish kabobs safely on the grill. No burns for me, and even cooking every time.

These simple tools turn preparing shish kabobs into a breeze. Even with picky eaters waiting, you’ll feel in control.

  • Grill or stovetop grill pan for smoky flavor.
  • Skewers, soaked if wooden, for secure threading.
  • Bowl or bag for effortless marinating.
  • Knife and board to handle prep fatigue.
  • Whisk for smooth marinade mixing.
  • Tongs to flip without hassle.

How to Make Shish Kabobs

Making these shish kabobs is straightforward and rewarding, especially when you’re short on time after a busy day. The steps follow the recipe closely for juicy results. Let’s get started with the basics.

Step 1: Prepare and Marinate the Beef

First, cut the beef into uniform 1-inch cubes. Place them in a deep dish or large resealable bag. Next, whisk together the soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, steak seasoning, and red wine in a separate bowl. Pour the marinade over the beef, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes. For more tender cuts, marinate up to 2 hours, or overnight for tougher ones. This step infuses great flavor while you handle other tasks.

Step 2: Prep the Vegetables

While the beef marinates, cut the green, red, and yellow bell peppers and onion into 1-inch pieces. Match the size to the beef cubes for even cooking. Leave mushrooms whole or halve larger ones. Place all vegetables in a large bowl. Season them with salt and black pepper to taste. This prep makes your vegetable kabobs come together smoothly.

Step 3: Soak Skewers and Preheat Grill

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. This prevents burning on the grill. Meanwhile, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Get it ready for grilling the beef skewers efficiently.

Step 4: Assemble the Shish Kabobs

Thread the marinated beef cubes, mushrooms, bell peppers, and onion pieces onto the skewers. Alternate them for even distribution and a nice look. Work carefully to keep pieces secure. This creates consistent grilled beef kabobs every time.

Step 5: Grill and Rest

Place the assembled shish kabobs on the hot grill. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side. Rotate them to develop a nice crust. Continue until the meat reaches your desired doneness. Then, remove from the grill. Let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute for optimal tenderness and flavor.

Tips for Success

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that make these shish kabobs turn out perfectly every time. As a busy mom, I focus on simple changes that save time and reduce frustration. These tips help avoid common pitfalls like uneven cooking or dry meat, especially when dealing with picky eaters who notice every detail.

First, marinate the beef longer if you can. Go up to overnight for tougher cuts. This maximizes tenderness in your shish kabobs without extra effort. Just pop it in the fridge before bed, and wake up to ready-to-grill meat.

Next, adjust salt and pepper carefully. The soy and teriyaki sauces already add plenty of sodium. Taste as you go for balanced flavor that keeps everyone happy.

Always cut all vegetables to similar 1-inch sizes. This promotes even cooking on the grill. No more crunchy onions next to soft peppers—it makes a big difference after a long day of prep.

Choose fresh bell peppers and onions whenever possible. They give the best color and crunch in vegetable kabobs. Fresh produce brightens the dish and tempts even the fussiest eaters.

Finally, soak wooden skewers thoroughly in water. Do this for at least 30 minutes to avoid charring during grilling. It prevents flare-ups and keeps your focus on the fun part—enjoying the meal.

Follow these steps, and you’ll get juicy, flavorful results every time. Trust me, they make weeknight cooking feel like a win.

  • Marinate longer for tender shish kabobs.
  • Season veggies lightly due to saucy sodium.
  • Match veggie sizes for even grilling.
  • Pick fresh produce for vibrant crunch.
  • Soak skewers well to skip the burn.

How to Store Shish Kabobs

As a busy mom, I love knowing these shish kabobs store so well. They make meal prep a breeze for those hectic weeknights. Leftovers mean less cooking later, and everyone stays happy without extra effort.

First, let the shish kabobs cool completely after grilling. Then, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh and safe for up to 3-4 days. This works great for quick lunches or family dinners.

For longer storage, wrap individual skewers tightly in plastic wrap. Add a layer of foil for extra protection. Freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge. This keeps textures intact and flavors strong.

To reheat, use a medium grill for that smoky touch. Or pop them in a 350-degree oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed. Avoid the microwave—it can make things soggy and ruin the crunch. These methods preserve the juicy beef and charred veggies perfectly.

Storing shish kabobs this way saves time and reduces waste. I often make extra just for the convenience. It turns one meal into several easy wins during busy weeks.

  • Cool and fridge in airtight container for 3-4 days.
  • Wrap and freeze individually up to 3 months.
  • Thaw overnight before reheating.
  • Grill or oven reheat; skip microwave for best texture.

Serving Suggestions

I always look forward to serving these shish kabobs because the pairings make them even better. As a busy mom, I pick sides that add flavor without much extra work. This keeps dinnertime simple and satisfying for picky eaters too.

Start by pairing shish kabobs with fluffy rice. It soaks up all the savory juices perfectly. Everyone loves how it completes the meal with comfort.

Next, serve alongside warm pita bread. It makes wrapping easy and fun for kids. Plus, it adds a soft texture that balances the grilled crunch.

For a lighter option, add a fresh green salad. It brings balance and freshness to the rich beef. I toss it together quickly before grilling.

Finally, offer tzatziki or a yogurt dip. This cools the grilled flavors gently. It tempts even hesitant eaters with its creamy tang.

These choices round out shish kabobs effortlessly. They turn a simple grill night into a full, enjoyable spread. No fuss, just happy faces around the table.

  • Fluffy rice to capture the juices.
  • Warm pita bread for fun wrapping.
  • Fresh green salad for light contrast.
  • Tzatziki or yogurt dip to mellow heat.
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Grilled Beef Shish Kabobs

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  • Author: Chloe Ramirez
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Salt

Description

Grilled beef shish kabobs featuring tender marinated beef cubes skewered with colorful bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for a flavorful barbecue dish.


Ingredients

  • 3 lbs beef (such as top sirloin or strip steak), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
  • 1 tablespoon steak seasoning (your preferred blend)
  • 1 cup red wine
  • 1 large green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 large yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 8 oz mushrooms, whole or halved if large
  • 1 large onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Wooden or metal skewers (soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes)


Instructions

  1. Cut your beef into uniform 1-inch cubes. Place the meat in a deep dish or a large resealable bag.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, steak seasoning, and red wine to create the marinade.
  3. Pour the marinade over the beef, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Allow the beef to marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more tender cuts, or even overnight for tougher cuts.
  4. While the beef marinates, prepare your vegetables. Cut the bell peppers and onion into pieces roughly the same size as the beef cubes. Leave mushrooms whole or halve larger ones. Place the cut vegetables in a large bowl and season with salt and pepper.
  5. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
  6. Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat.
  7. Carefully thread the marinated beef, mushrooms, bell peppers, and onion pieces onto the skewers, alternating them for visual appeal and even cooking.
  8. Place the assembled kabobs on the hot grill. Grill for about 3-5 minutes per side, rotating until each side develops a nice crust and the meat reaches your desired doneness.
  9. Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for approximately 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Notes

  • Marinate the beef for longer (up to overnight) for tougher cuts to enhance tenderness.
  • Adjust salt and pepper to taste, considering the sodium in soy and teriyaki sauces.
  • Ensure vegetables are cut to similar sizes for even cooking on the grill.
  • Serve with rice, pita bread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

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