Some days, you open the fridge, see that package of ground beef staring back at you, and think, “Not spaghetti again.” We’ve all been there. If you’re craving something that feels exotic but as comforting as your favorite pair of slippers, let me introduce you to your new weeknight hero: Ground Beef Kebabs.
With bold Mediterranean spices, juicy tenderness, and the flexibility to cook them on the grill or in your oven, these kebabs are perfect for switching things up without reinventing the wheel—or your dinner routine. Plus, they’re fun to eat (hello, skewers!) and even better to share. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just trying to survive dinner with picky eaters, this easy Mediterranean recipe has your back.
Why You’ll Love These Ground Beef Kebabs
These kebabs are a delicious departure from the ordinary. Ground beef, infused with a warm blend of garlic, cumin, paprika, and parsley, gets shaped into oblong patties that are either skewered or baked freeform. You can grill kebabs for that irresistible char or pop them in the oven when the weather isn’t playing nice. No fancy ingredients, just pantry staples working magic.
Ingredients
- 15 wooden skewers (optional)
- 2 lbs ground beef (or mix with pork for extra richness)
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup dried or 1/2 cup fresh parsley, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder or a few minced garlic cloves
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
How to Make Ground Beef Kebabs
- Soak the Skewers (if using wooden ones): At least 30 minutes before cooking. This keeps them from catching fire—unless you like a little pyrotechnics with dinner.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high or your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix It Up: Combine all ingredients in a big bowl. Use your hands (clean, of course) to mix, but don’t overdo it. We’re making kebabs, not meat bricks.
- Shape into oblong patties. Thread onto skewers if using, or shape freehand.
- Cook:
- Grill: About 20 minutes, turning halfway. Look for that beautiful golden-brown color and an internal temp of 160°F (71°C).
- Oven: Bake on a foil-lined tray for 20 minutes. Broil for 1–2 minutes for that crispy finish.
- Rest: Let them sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps things juicy.
Cooking Tips
- If your mixture feels too soft, pop it in the fridge for 10 minutes before shaping.
- Want more Mediterranean flair? Add a pinch of cinnamon or allspice.
- No skewers? No stress. These bake up beautifully freeform.
- Fresh garlic gives a richer flavor, but the powdered version is great for busy nights.
A Bite of My Life
I first made these on a rainy Tuesday when grilling was out and my motivation was lacking. My kids were skeptical at first—anything not shaped like a nugget gets the side-eye—but they took one bite and were hooked. Now, it’s our go-to when we want something satisfying and a little bit different. Plus, the leftovers make fantastic lunchbox heroes the next day.
What to Serve with Ground Beef Kebabs
These kebabs are cozy with fluffy rice, zingy with a Greek salad, or comforting wrapped in warm pita with tzatziki. Sometimes, we go all-out and do a DIY kebab night with dips like hummus, baba ghanoush, and cucumber-tomato salad. Add a few lemon wedges for that fresh pop!
How to Store Leftovers
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes or give them a quick spin in the microwave. They also freeze like champs—just wrap individually and stash in a zip-top bag. Great for you in the future on a busy night.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground turkey?
Absolutely! Just know it’ll be leaner and may cook a little faster. Add a splash of olive oil for juiciness.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Shape the kebabs and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. Perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
Do I need skewers?
Nope. They’re optional. Freeform patties are just as tasty.
Can I cook these in the oven without broiling?
Yes, but broiling gives them that nice finish. If you skip it, they’ll still be delish, just a bit softer on the outside.
Ready to Savor These Ground Beef Kebabs?
When dinner needs to be a win—and we all have those nights—these Ground Beef Kebabs rise to the occasion. They’re flavorful, versatile, and simple enough to make even when your energy is on E. Whether you choose grill kebabs for smoky goodness or oven kebabs for rainy-day coziness, this easy Mediterranean recipe turns humble ground beef into a dinner worth remembering. So grab that apron and let’s kebab it up!
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Savory Ground Beef Kebabs (Grill or Oven) — A Weeknight Wonder
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 15 kebabs 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
These savory ground beef kebabs, made with simple pantry spices, bring bold Mediterranean flavor to your dinner table. Whether grilled for a smoky finish or baked in the oven, they’re juicy, tender, and versatile. They offer comfort and flair in every bite, perfect for quick weeknight meals, family dinners, or meal prep.
Ingredients
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15 wooden skewers (optional)
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2 lbs ground beef (or half beef, half pork)
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1 egg
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1/4 cup dried or 1/2 cup fresh parsley, minced
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp garlic powder or minced garlic cloves
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1 tsp paprika
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1 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp ground cumin
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1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
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Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes if using.
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Preheat grill to medium-high or oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Mix ingredients in a large bowl until just combined.
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Shape into oblong patties. Thread onto skewers or leave freeform.
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Grill method: Cook for 20 minutes, turning halfway, until golden-brown and internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).
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Oven method: Bake for 20 minutes on a foil-lined tray. Broil 1–2 minutes at the end for a crispy finish.
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Rest the kebabs for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Chill the mixture before shaping if too soft.
Add cinnamon or allspice for deeper Mediterranean notes.
Fresh garlic adds more flavor, but powder works fine.
Serve with rice, pita, Greek salad, or dips like tzatziki and hummus.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilled or Baked
- Cuisine: Mediterranean