Dinner

Beef Kebab Recipe with Spiced Ground Beef and Fresh Toppings Recipe

Name: Beef Kebab Recipe with Spiced Ground Beef and Fresh Toppings Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 31 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 2 lbs lean ground beef; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 small red onion, diced; 1 cup chopped parsley; 1 tbsp cumin; 1 tbsp coriander; 1 tbsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1 tsp garlic powder; 2 tsp salt; Pepper to taste; Store-bought tzatziki; Chopped cucumber; Red onions (soaked in lemon juice); Feta cheese; Chopped fresh mint; Greek style pita bread

BySana Jeannette February 28, 2026February 28, 2026

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Introduction

These beef kebabs are packed with aromatic spices and fresh herbs, making them a flavorful and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, they pair wonderfully with traditional Greek sides like tzatziki and warm pita bread.

Ingredients

2 lbs lean ground beef
3 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 small red onion, diced
1 cup chopped parsley

1 tbsp cumin
1 tbsp coriander

1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp garlic powder

2 tsp salt
Pepper to taste

To Serve:

Store-bought tzatziki
Chopped cucumber
Red onions (soaked in lemon juice)

Feta
Chopped fresh mint
Greek style pita bread

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 450°F. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, mix together all of the beef kebab ingredients until fully combined. Use your hands to really work the mixture so it’s uniform and well-seasoned.
Step 3: Transfer the beef mixture onto the lined sheet pan and press it into an even rectangle about 3/4 inch thick. This thickness helps the kebabs hold their shape and cook evenly.

Step 4: Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, slice the beef mixture into long kebab-style strips about 1 to 1½ inches wide. There’s no need to separate them; they will bake and pull apart easily.
Step 5: Bake for 15–16 minutes, or until the kebabs are fully cooked through.
Step 6: For a crispier finish, switch the oven to broil on high for the last 1–2 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.

Step 7: Serve hot with warm pita, tzatziki, and fresh toppings like cucumber, feta, mint, and pickled red onion.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, soak red onions in lemon juice for at least 15 minutes before serving to add a bright, tangy bite.
You can substitute ground lamb for a richer taste and traditional Mediterranean twist.

If you prefer grilling, shape the kebabs onto skewers and grill over medium heat for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally.
Add a pinch of chili flakes to the beef mixture if you like a little heat.

Storage

Store leftover cooked kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven until warmed through to maintain their texture. Avoid microwaving to prevent drying out. The fresh toppings and tzatziki are best added fresh when serving.

How to Serve

A close-up of two hands holding a folded pita bread wrap filled with several layers: the bottom layer is white and creamy, followed by a layer of dark brown, crumbly ground meat, topped with diced green cucumber and red bell peppers, and sprinkled with white crumbly cheese. In the background, on a white parchment-lined tray, there are long, thin strips of cooked ground meat with a shiny, dark brown texture. On the side, a halved lemon rests on a white marbled surface. The image has a warm and fresh look, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the beef kebabs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and shape the kebabs a few hours in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

What can I serve with these beef kebabs?

They are delicious with Greek pita bread, tzatziki sauce, chopped cucumber, pickled red onions, feta cheese, and fresh mint for a complete and balanced meal.