Summer is grilling season, and what better way to celebrate than with juicy, flavorful ground beef kabobs? These aren't your grandma's meatballs on a stick; we're talking about perfectly seasoned ground beef patties, bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. This recipe is easy to follow, adaptable to your taste, and guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Let's get started!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 lb Ground Beef: Choose a higher fat content (around 80/20) for juicier kabobs.
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs: These help bind the beef mixture. Panko breadcrumbs offer a lovely crisp texture.
- 1/4 cup Chopped Onion: Adds a savory sweetness.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Essential for that garlicky goodness!
- 1 large Egg, lightly beaten: Acts as a binder.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce: Adds depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano: A classic Italian herb that pairs perfectly with beef.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt: Adjust to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground is best.
- Wooden or Metal Skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Your Favorite Kabob Veggies: Onions, bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes – get creative!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prep the Beef Mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the kabobs tough.
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Shape the Patties: Form the beef mixture into small, oval-shaped patties, about 1.5 inches thick and slightly larger than the size of your skewers.
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Assemble the Kabobs: Thread the beef patties onto the prepared skewers, alternating with your chosen vegetables. Leave a small space between each patty to allow for even cooking.
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Pre-heat Your Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Clean the grates to prevent sticking.
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Grill the Kabobs: Place the kabobs on the preheated grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the beef is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the beef reaches 160°F (71°C).
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Rest & Serve: Once cooked, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender meat.
Tips for the Perfect Ground Beef Kabobs:
- Don't Overcrowd the Grill: Give the kabobs enough space to cook evenly.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This is the best way to ensure the beef is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Get Creative with Marinades: Experiment with different marinades to add extra flavor. Try a teriyaki marinade, a balsamic marinade, or even a spicy chipotle marinade.
- Add Cheese: For extra decadence, top the cooked kabobs with your favorite cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.
Serving Suggestions:
These delicious ground beef kabobs are perfect for a summer barbecue, a picnic, or a casual weeknight dinner. Serve them with your favorite sides, such as:
- Rice: A classic accompaniment to any kabob.
- Potato Salad: A refreshing and creamy side dish.
- Pasta Salad: A light and flavorful option.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: A quintessential summer side.
Enjoy your homemade ground beef kabobs! Remember to share your culinary creations with us on social media using #GroundBeefKabobs. Happy grilling!
