Beef Kebab with Yogurt Aioli

Name: Beef Kebab with Yogurt Aioli
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 4 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 garlic clove, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Cozy Cravings Kitchen

I have to share my experience with making Beef Kebab with Yogurt Aioli because it completely elevated my grilling game. When I first tried this recipe, I was surprised by how easy it was to create such vibrant flavors at home. The marinade brings out the beef's richness while the yogurt aioli adds a creamy, tangy element that’s simply irresistible. Whether it's for a weekend barbecue or a weeknight dinner, this dish will impress anyone sitting at your table. It’s become a staple in our home, and I think you'll love it too!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-20T14:26:28.306Z

When I first made these Beef Kebabs, I was blown away by the mouthwatering aroma that filled my kitchen. It starts with a fantastic marinade of spices, garlic, and herbs, which infuses the beef with deep flavors. Letting the meat rest in the marinade for at least an hour (or overnight, if you can wait) truly makes a difference, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.

The addition of the yogurt aioli is a game changer. I love how it balances the meat's richness and adds zing. I recommend serving the kebabs with fresh pita and salad for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and refreshing!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy, flavorful beef marinated to perfection
Creamy and tangy yogurt aioli that complements the kebabs
Quick to prepare and perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners

      

Mastering the Marinade

The magic of these beef kebabs begins with the marinade. The key ingredients, including cumin and smoked paprika, not only add warmth and depth but also enhance the umami flavor of the beef. Letting the meat marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight, ensures that the flavors penetrate deeply, resulting in every bite being bursting with taste. If you're short on time, you can still proceed with cooking right after mixing the ingredients; just remember that a longer marinade is ideal for the best flavor.

Ground beef isn't just a hearty ingredient; its fat content plays a crucial role in keeping the kebabs juicy. Look for ground beef that is around 80% lean to 20% fat for an optimal texture. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can work, but consider adding a bit more olive oil to maintain moisture.

Understanding Yogurt Aioli

Yogurt aioli serves as the perfect counterpart to the rich beef kebabs. The creaminess of Greek yogurt provides a base that coats the kebabs beautifully, while the acidity from lemon juice lifts the overall dish. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based yogurt; just make sure it’s unsweetened for the best flavor balance. Additionally, don't hesitate to experiment with herbs. Adding fresh dill or mint can give the aioli a refreshing twist that brightens the dish.

Adjusting the garlic level in your aioli can also customize the flavor profile. If you enjoy a more pronounced garlic taste, you can add a little more minced garlic, but if you're sensitive to strong flavors, reduce it slightly. The key is to blend the flavors until they reach the right balance for your palate.

Cooking and Serving Tips

When it comes time to cook the kebabs, preheating the grill is essential. Aim for a medium-high heat, around 400°F to 450°F, to achieve that nice char while ensuring the inside cooks through. You’ll know they're ready to flip when they easily release from the grill, without sticking, and have desirable grill marks. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, but keep an eye on them, as cooking times can vary based on your grill's heat distribution.

For serving, I recommend pairing the kebabs with a refreshing salad or pita bread to soak up the creamy yogurt aioli. You can also serve them over a bed of rice or quinoa for a heartier meal. If you're entertaining, consider skewering colorful vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini between the beef, adding an extra layer of flavor and making the dish visually stunning.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to create these delicious kebabs and the refreshing yogurt aioli!

For the Beef Kebabs:

1 lb ground beef
2 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
4 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

For the Yogurt Aioli:

1 cup Greek yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil

With these ingredients in hand, you’ll be on your way to enjoying delicious beef kebabs!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Beef Kebabs with Yogurt Aioli!

Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Add the chopped parsley and combine until well mixed.

Form the Kebabs

Divide the meat mixture into four equal portions and shape each portion around a skewer, flattening them slightly to form kebabs.

Make the Yogurt Aioli

In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and olive oil until smooth.

Cook the Kebabs

Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the kebabs for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they are browned and cooked through.

Serve

Serve the kebabs hot with the yogurt aioli on the side and enjoy!

Now enjoy your delicious Beef Kebabs paired with the creamy yogurt aioli!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, let the kebabs marinate for longer (up to overnight) and use freshly chopped herbs. Serve with a side of grilled vegetables for a balanced meal.

Make-Ahead & Storage

If you're planning a busy day, you can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time. Simply combine the ingredients in a bowl, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to develop further. When ready to cook, just form the kebabs and grill as directed.

The yogurt aioli can also be made a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and you'll find that the flavors meld beautifully over time. However, keep it separate from the kebabs until serving to preserve its freshness.

Flavor Variations

While the classic beef kebab is undeniably delicious, don't hesitate to explore flavor variations. For a Mediterranean twist, try adding spices like coriander or even a pinch of cinnamon to the beef mixture. Additionally, marinating the meat with yogurt can yield extra tenderness and a unique taste, so consider incorporating a bit of yogurt into the marinade itself.

You can also switch up the aioli by adding ingredients like roasted red peppers or fresh herbs for added complexity. These simple tweaks can transform the dish while still keeping it rooted in the original concept.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground chicken or turkey to make similar kebabs.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the cooked kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the aioli ahead of time?

Absolutely! The yogurt aioli can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve with these kebabs?

These kebabs pair wonderfully with pita bread, rice, or a fresh salad.