Shish Kabob Recipe is the perfect dish for any gathering, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner. These juicy steak kabobs burst with flavor thanks to a carefully crafted marinade, making them a standout choice. Plus, they are incredibly versatile and easy to prepare ahead of time, ensuring you can enjoy your time with guests while serving up an impressive meal.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For Garnish
- How to Make Shish Kabob Recipe
- Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- Step 2: Marinate the Steak
- Step 3: Prep Vegetables
- Step 4: Soak Skewers
- Step 5: Assemble Kabobs
- How to Serve Shish Kabob Recipe
- Pair with Fresh Salads
- Accompany with Dipping Sauces
- Serve on a Skewer Platter
- Include Grains
- How to Perfect Shish Kabob Recipe
- Best Side Dishes for Shish Kabob Recipe
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Shish Kabob Recipe
- Reheating Shish Kabob Recipe
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken instead of steak in my Shish Kabob Recipe?
- How do I make my kabobs spicier?
- Can I grill these kabobs indoors?
- What sides go well with Shish Kabob Recipe?
- How long does it take to cook Shish Kabob Recipe?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with Flavor: The marinade infuses the steak and vegetables with delicious flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize your kabobs with your favorite vegetables or swap out the steak for chicken or shrimp.
- Prep Ahead Friendly: Marinate in advance to save time on busy days, making entertaining effortless.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, these kabobs are sure to impress family and friends alike.
- Quick Cooking Time: With just 10 minutes on the grill or in the oven, you’ll have a delightful meal ready in no time.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Shish Kabob Recipe, having the right tools will streamline your cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Large bowl or freezer bag
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Grill or oven
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Skewers: They allow you to easily thread the meat and veggies for even cooking and presentation.
- Large Bowl or Freezer Bag: Ideal for marinating meats thoroughly, ensuring every piece is flavorful.
- Microwave-Safe Bowl: Perfect for pre-cooking potatoes quickly before grilling to ensure they are tender.
Ingredients
These Baked or Grilled Steak Kabobs are crazy juicy and exploding with flavor thanks to the BEST MARINADE adapted from my viral flank steak recipe. Readers agree, this kabob recipe is “AMAZING!,” “a big hit,” and “⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️” delicious!. Best of all, these kabobs are PREP AHEAD FRIENDLY (instructions included), ideal for effortless entertaining that will have everyone swooning!
- 1 1/2-2 lbs. top sirloin steak
- 1 lb. baby red potatoes (cut into 1 1/2” chunks)
- 2 bell peppers (red, yellow or orange) (cut into 1 1/2” chunks)
- 2 small or 1 large zucchini (cut into 1/4-1/2” slices)
- 1 large red onion (cut into 1 1/2” chunks)
- extra virgin olive oil
- salt and pepper
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 TBS EACH onion powder, garlic powder
- 1 tsp EACH paprika, pepper, dried basil, dried dill weed
- 1/2 tsp EACH dried oregano, dried rosemary, ground coriander
- 1/2-1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Shish Kabob Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Whisk all of the marinade ingredients together in a large bowl or large freezer bag. Remove 1/3 cup of the marinade for later use on vegetables and for basting.
Step 2: Marinate the Steak
Add the steak to the remaining marinade and turn to coat well. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for 2–6 hours.
Step 3: Prep Vegetables
In a large microwave-safe bowl with a tight-fitting lid, add baby red potatoes along with 3–4 tablespoons of water. Microwave covered for about 4–5 minutes until fork tender; drain. Add bell peppers, onions, reserved marinade (3 tablespoons), olive oil (2 tablespoons), salt (½ teaspoon), and pepper (¼ teaspoon). Toss everything until evenly coated and refrigerate.
Step 4: Soak Skewers
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water at this point to prevent burning during cooking. Aim for at least 30 minutes but you can soak them while marinating beef.
Step 5: Assemble Kabobs
When ready to cook, thread pieces of steak and vegetables onto skewers in your preferred order. When adding red onion slices to skewers, keep them grouped together in clusters of 2–3 slices to avoid burning.
Now you’re ready to grill or bake these delightful Shish Kabob Recipe creations! Enjoy every juicy bite!
How to Serve Shish Kabob Recipe
Serving your flavorful Shish Kabob Recipe can elevate your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these kabobs can be paired with various sides and sauces for a complete meal.
Pair with Fresh Salads
- Greek Salad – A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese adds a tangy contrast.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing complements the richness of the kabobs.
Accompany with Dipping Sauces
- Tzatziki Sauce – This cool yogurt-based sauce pairs wonderfully with the grilled flavors.
- Chimichurri – A zesty herb sauce that enhances the savory taste of the steak.
Serve on a Skewer Platter
- Colorful Presentation – Arrange skewers on a large platter for an appealing display that invites guests to dig in.
- Garnish with Herbs – Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro over the skewers for added flavor and color.
Include Grains
- Couscous – Fluffy couscous makes a great base for the kabobs while absorbing flavors from the marinade.
- Rice Pilaf – A seasoned rice dish complements the kabobs’ taste and adds heartiness to your meal.
How to Perfect Shish Kabob Recipe
To ensure your Shish Kabob Recipe turns out perfectly every time, follow these essential tips. They focus on enhancing flavor and achieving ideal cooking results.
- Marinate Longer – Allowing the steak to marinate for 6 hours or more deepens flavor absorption.
- Use Uniform Cuts – Cutting vegetables and meat into similar sizes ensures even cooking throughout.
- Preheat Your Grill – A hot grill sears the meat quickly, locking in juices for extra tenderness.
- Don’t Overcrowd Skewers – Leaving space between items allows heat to circulate, promoting even cooking.
- Baste While Cooking – Using reserved marinade to baste during grilling keeps kabobs moist and flavorful.
- Let Rest Before Serving – Allowing cooked kabobs to rest for a few minutes helps retain juices when serving.

Best Side Dishes for Shish Kabob Recipe
A delightful side dish can enhance your Shish Kabob Recipe and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some perfect pairings that complement the kabobs beautifully.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with butter brings vibrant flavors alongside your kabobs.
- Roasted Vegetables – Toss seasonal veggies in olive oil and roast them until caramelized for extra crunch.
- Potato Salad – A creamy potato salad provides a comforting side that balances the smoky tastes of grilled meat.
- Quinoa Salad – This nutritious option mixed with veggies offers freshness and protein to your plate.
- Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover marinade or juices from the kabobs.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, cutting through rich flavors effectively.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Shish Kabob Recipe, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish. Here are some tips to ensure success.
Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate the steak can lead to bland kabobs. Always allow the meat to soak in flavors for at least 2 hours, or up to 6 hours for maximum taste.
Overcrowding Skewers: Packing too many ingredients onto one skewer can result in uneven cooking. Space out the pieces to ensure each ingredient gets adequate heat and cooks evenly.
Ignoring Veggie Preparation: Not cutting vegetables into uniform sizes can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure all veggies are cut similarly so they cook at the same rate as the meat.
Using Dry Skewers: Not soaking wooden skewers before grilling may cause them to burn. Soak your skewers for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent charring.
Not Pre-cooking Potatoes: Adding raw potatoes directly onto the skewers will result in undercooked veggies. Precook them in the microwave until fork-tender for optimal results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover kabobs in an airtight container.
- They can last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Ensure that they cool down before sealing the container.
Freezing Shish Kabob Recipe
- Place kabobs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Label with date for easy identification later.
Reheating Shish Kabob Recipe
Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place kabobs on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking periodically.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little olive oil and cook kabobs for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making this Shish Kabob Recipe that may help you.
Can I use chicken instead of steak in my Shish Kabob Recipe?
Yes, chicken is a great alternative! Just ensure it is marinated properly and cooked thoroughly until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How do I make my kabobs spicier?
To add heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the marinade or serve with a spicy dipping sauce on the side.
Can I grill these kabobs indoors?
Yes! You can use an indoor grill pan or broil them in your oven if outdoor grilling isn’t an option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
What sides go well with Shish Kabob Recipe?
These kabobs pair beautifully with rice pilaf, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How long does it take to cook Shish Kabob Recipe?
Cooking time on the grill is typically around 10 minutes; however, it may vary based on your grill’s heat and how thick your meat pieces are cut.
Final Thoughts
This Shish Kabob Recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by using different meats or vegetables based on your preferences. Whether you choose to bake or grill these kabobs, they’re sure to impress at any gathering. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try and enjoy mouthwatering flavors!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Shish Kabob Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
Description
Elevate your next gathering with this mouthwatering Shish Kabob Recipe, perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners. The juicy steak kabobs are infused with a flavorful marinade that combines savory and sweet notes, making every bite an explosion of taste. Not only are they easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins, but they can also be prepared in advance, allowing you to savor the moment with your guests. With a quick cooking time of just 10 minutes, these kabobs are guaranteed to impress everyone at the table!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2–2 lbs. top sirloin steak
- 1 lb. baby red potatoes (cut into 1 1/2” chunks)
- 2 bell peppers (cut into 1 1/2” chunks)
- 2 small or 1 large zucchini (cut into 1/4-1/2” slices)
- 1 large red onion (cut into 1 1/2” chunks)
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried dill weed
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2–1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- In a large bowl or freezer bag, whisk together all marinade ingredients. Reserve 1/3 cup for basting.
- Add steak to the marinade and coat well. Marinate in the refrigerator for 2–6 hours.
- Microwave baby red potatoes with water covered until fork-tender (about 4-5 minutes). Drain and toss with reserved marinade and other vegetables.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before assembling.
- Thread marinated beef and vegetables onto skewers in desired order.
- Grill or bake kabobs on high heat for about 10 minutes until cooked through.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling/Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 200g
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg