Juicy Grilled Steak Kabobs with Marinade and Veggies

Quick and easy steak kabobs made by marinating sirloin pieces in a flavorful homemade steak marinade. These grilled beef kabobs are perfect for the grill but can also be cooked under the broiler in the oven when needed.

They’re a crowd-pleaser at every barbecue and a family favorite thanks to a simple yet tasty marinade passed down in my family.

Tips for the best steak kabobs:

• Use low-sodium soy sauce to avoid an overly salty marinade.
• Choose sirloin steak—it’s an ideal cut for kabobs because it remains tender when grilled.
• If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
• To make steak-and-potato kabobs, omit the peppers and use baby potatoes that have been precooked until tender.
• Other great kabob additions include mushrooms, zucchini, bacon-wrapped potatoes, pineapple, tomatoes, and onions.
• Grilling yields the best flavor and texture, but kabobs can also be broiled in the oven on high heat.
• Marinate the steak for at least 1 hour and up to 6 hours; longer marinating intensifies the flavor.
• The marinade works well on vegetables too—marinate and then grill or roast them alongside the beef.

How to make shish kebabs

Start by preparing the beef shish kabob marinade: whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, low-sodium soy sauce, vinegar, honey, mustard, fresh ginger, garlic, black pepper and Worcestershire sauce. Add cubed sirloin to the marinade, cover and refrigerate for 1–6 hours. Thread the marinated beef onto skewers, alternating with vegetables, and grill over medium heat, turning frequently until the meat is browned on all sides and vegetables are tender. Rest the kabobs for 5 minutes, then garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley. Add red chili flakes if you like heat.

Grill time for beef kabobs

Grill for about 12–15 minutes over medium heat, turning every 3–4 minutes so the meat and vegetables cook evenly. They’re ready when the beef is browned on all sides and the vegetables are tender.

Best beef for kabobs

Use a good-quality cut like sirloin, trimmed and cut into roughly 1-inch cubes for even cooking and good texture.

How to grill steak kabobs

Preheat the grill to medium. Place skewers on the grill and cook 12–15 minutes, turning every 3–4 minutes so each side gets direct heat. Remove when beef is browned and vegetables are tender. Let rest briefly before serving.

How to cook steak kabobs in the oven

Use the broil setting on a preheated oven. Arrange skewers on a baking tray and set the rack in the middle of the oven. Broil on high for about 15 minutes, turning once for even cooking—timing will vary depending on steak thickness and desired doneness.

How to marinate steak kabobs

Combine the marinade ingredients—olive oil, lemon juice, soy sauce, vinegar, honey, mustard, ginger, garlic, black pepper and Worcestershire sauce—in a bowl and whisk to combine. Add the steak cubes, toss to coat, cover and refrigerate for 1 to 6 hours.

Suggested side dishes for steak kabobs

Steak kabobs pair well with:

• Green salad
• Pita bread
• Couscous
• Rice pilaf
• Buttered rice
• Grilled vegetables

Recipe summary: Quick and easy grilled steak kabobs with a tangy, slightly sweet marinade. Perfect for summer barbecues or an easy weeknight dinner when broiled in the oven.

Recipe