Grilling kabobs is one of the best ways to enjoy flavorful juicy beef during the warmer months. The sizzling smoky taste of beef paired with slightly charred veggies on a skewer is simply irresistible. However, grilling kabobs does require some skill to get the timing just right. Undercook them and you’ll end up with tough, chewy meat. Overcook them and the beef will be dry and flavorless. So how long should you grill beef kabobs for the best results?
In this comprehensive guide, we will provide tips on determining the ideal grilling time for beef kabobs based on a few key factors. We will also share our foolproof techniques to grill moist, tender and perfectly cooked beef kabobs. So fire up that grill and let’s get grilling!
What Determines the Grilling Time for Beef Kabobs?
There are a few important factors that influence the total grilling time needed for delicious beef kabobs:
Thickness of the Beef Cubes
The thickness of the cubed beef is the primary determiner of the grilling time. Thicker cuts take longer to cook through while thinner pieces require less time. For uniform cooking cut the beef into cubes of equal thickness before skewering and grilling. Aim for around 1 to 1 1⁄2 inch cubes.
Desired Doneness
How done you want your beef kabobs to be is key. Rare beef kabobs require lesser time on the grill compared to medium or well-done ones Decide on your preferred doneness level beforehand as that will impact the total grilling duration
Type of Grill
The kind of grill you use also affects cooking times. Kabobs grilled on a hot charcoal or infrared grill cook faster than those on a gas grill with moderate heat. The intense direct heat of a charcoal grill sears the beef quickly.
Marinades and Rubs
Any acidic marinades and salty rubs used can denature the beef protein, making it cook faster. So kabobs with marinades may take slightly less time than plain, unmarinated ones.
How Long Should You Grill Beef Kabobs?
Because of these things, the best time to grill beef kabobs that are 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick is:
- Rare: 6-7 minutes
- Medium Rare: 8-10 minutes
- Medium: 10-12 minutes
- Medium Well: 12-14 minutes
- Well Done: 15+ minutes
These times are for beef kabobs grilled over direct high heat, flipping halfway through. The cooking duration may need adjustment based on your specific conditions.
Don’t just look at the time to check the internal temperature; always use a meat thermometer. This ensures your beef kabobs are cooked to your desired doneness.
Here are the target internal temperatures:
- Rare: 120-125°F
- Medium Rare: 130-135°F
- Medium: 140-145°F
- Medium Well: 150-155°F
- Well Done: 160+°F
Now let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to grill supremely tasty beef kabobs. Follow these tips and techniques for perfection:
Tips for Grilling Juicy, Flavorful Beef Kabobs
1. Choose a Tender Cut of Beef
Opt for naturally tender cuts like sirloin, tenderloin or ribeye for the most juicy, melt-in-your-mouth beef kabobs. Tougher cuts can be used too but require marinading or long, slow cooking.
2. Cut Uniform Cubes
Cut the beef into 1 to 1 1⁄2 inch cubes so they cook at the same pace. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.
3. Marinade for Added Flavor
Soak the beef in a marinade for 2-4 hours to infuse it with extra flavor. Yogurt, oil, acidic ingredients like vinegar or lemon juice help tenderize the meat too.
4. Skewer Properly
If using wood skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before skewering to prevent burning. Leave a tiny gap between pieces to allow heat circulation.
5. Oil the Grill Grates
Lightly brush the hot grill grates with oil or spray with nonstick cooking spray so the kabobs don’t stick.
6. Get the Grill Super Hot
Heat your charcoal or gas grill to high heat. The beef needs a searing temperature to caramelize and cook properly.
7. Grill Kabobs on High Heat
Place kabobs on the grill and cook over direct high heat. Flip only once halfway through for the best sear.
8. Check Doneness
Test doneness early and often with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest portion. Remove from grill when done to your liking.
9. Let Kabobs Rest
Allow the grilled beef kabobs to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute evenly.
10. Add Salt and Herbs After
Avoid adding salt and fresh herbs to the beef before grilling as it draws out moisture. Season after grilling for maximum flavor.
Grilled Beef Kabobs – An Easy, Crowd-Pleasing Recipe
Now that you know how long to grill beef kabobs and helpful tips to get them just right, it’s time to put that knowledge into practice!
This simple recipe for grilled beef kabobs is sure to be a big hit at your next backyard barbecue or summer dinner party. Flavorful, caramelized beef paired with slightly charred bell peppers and onions – a classic combo that never disappoints!
Grilled Beef Kabobs Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs sirloin or tenderloin beef, cut into 1-1 1⁄2 inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 onion, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1⁄4 cup olive oil
- 1⁄4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1⁄2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 to 10 skewers
Instructions:
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In a large bowl, mix together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt and pepper. Add beef cubes and mix well until evenly coated in marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 2-4 hours.
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If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes. Drain before using.
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Thread beef cubes, peppers and onions alternately onto skewers, leaving a tiny gap between pieces.
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Preheat grill to high heat. Brush grates with oil to grease.
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Place kabobs on grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Grill until beef reaches desired doneness.
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Transfer grilled beef kabobs to a platter and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with a bit of salt and fresh parsley. Enjoy!
Get ready for the most irresistible beef kabobs you’ve ever tasted! Perfectly caramelized on the outside, moist and tender inside, and full of smoky grill flavors, these kabobs are sure to be a grilling season favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions About Grilling Beef Kabobs
1. What if my beef kabobs are undercooked?
If you cut into your beef kabobs and find they are still rare or raw in the center, place them back on the hot grill for a minute or two until cooked to your desired doneness. Check frequently with a meat thermometer.
2. Can I grill beef kabobs on a stovetop grill pan?
Yes, stovetop grill pans work well for indoor grilling. Follow the same grilling times and temperatures as you would for an outdoor grill. Just keep a close eye on them as they can burn faster.
3. Should I reuse marinade as a basting sauce when grilling kabobs?
It’s unsafe to use marinade that touched raw meat for basting, as it can spread bacteria. Make a portion of marinade separately if you want to use it as a basting sauce.
4. My beef kabobs are overdone and dry. How can I prevent this next time?
Check them early and often with a meat thermometer instead of relying on grill times alone. And don’t press down on the kabobs while they grill, as it squeezes out juices.
5. Can I grill beef kabobs from frozen?
Yes, but thaw them first in the refrigerator overnight before marinading and grilling. Frozen kabobs may not cook evenly and will likely burn on the outside before cooking through.
The Perfect Way to Enjoy Grilled Beef Kabobs
With the right techniques, getting the ideal grilling time for flavorful beef kabobs is easy. Use a tender cut, marinate well, grill over high heat and test doneness with a thermometer. In about 8-10 minutes, you’ll have restaurant-worthy kabobs ready to enjoy all summer long.
Serve these tasty grilled beef kabobs with zesty chimichurri sauce, creamy potato salad, or your favorite sides. Kabobs also work great as appetizers or party food. Just be sure to make extra, because they will go fast!
