Juicy, marinated beef cubes grilled to perfection alongside vibrant bell peppers—these grilled beef skewers are rich in flavor and perfect for any outdoor gathering. Served with a spicy onion and tomato sauce, this dish strikes the ideal balance between smoky, savory, and mildly spicy notes, making it a crowd-pleaser for backyard barbecues or festive dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the deep, satisfying flavor of marinated grilled beef with the sweetness of roasted bell peppers and the kick of a homemade spicy onion sauce. The skewers are easy to prepare ahead of time and cook quickly, making them ideal for both weeknight meals and special occasions. The onion sauce adds a unique, zesty dimension, elevating the dish far beyond ordinary grilled meat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into cubes
• Red, green, and yellow bell peppers
• Olive oil
• Soy sauce
• Smoked paprika
• Ground cumin
• Garlic powder
• Black pepper
• Salt
• Fresh parsley
• Onion
• Garlic
• Crushed tomatoes
• Cayenne pepper
• Lemon juice
• Wooden or metal skewers

Directions

1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, soy sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and chopped parsley to form the marinade.
2. Add the beef cubes and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
3. Thread marinated beef and chopped bell peppers alternately onto skewers.
4. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
5. Grill the skewers for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the beef is charred and cooked to your desired doneness.
6. For the sauce: In a small pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until soft.
7. Add crushed tomatoes, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
8. Finish the sauce with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
9. Serve skewers hot with the spicy onion sauce and optional lemon wedges on the side.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6 people
Prep time: 1 hour (including marinating time)
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with marinated tofu or halloumi cheese and adjust grilling time.
• Add More Veggies: Include mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes on the skewers for more color and flavor.
• Different Protein: Substitute beef with lamb, chicken thighs, or shrimp for a different taste and texture.
• Herb Swap: Use cilantro or mint instead of parsley in the marinade for a fresh twist.
• Sweet and Spicy Sauce: Add a touch of honey or brown sugar to the onion sauce for a sweeter profile.

storage/reheating

Store leftover skewers and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat skewers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes or on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Reheat the sauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the beef?

For the best flavor, marinate the beef for at least 1 hour, but overnight marination is ideal.

Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden ones?

Yes, metal skewers work well and don’t require soaking like wooden skewers do.

Can this be cooked in the oven?

Yes, broil the skewers on high heat for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway through.

What cut of beef is best?

Sirloin or ribeye are great choices because they’re tender and flavorful when grilled.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the beef and assemble the skewers a day in advance. Store them in the fridge until ready to grill.

Is the onion sauce very spicy?

The cayenne pepper gives it heat, but you can reduce the amount to make it milder.

Can I freeze the beef skewers?

You can freeze the marinated beef (before cooking) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before grilling.

What can I serve with these skewers?

Serve them with rice, couscous, pita bread, or a simple green salad.

Can I grill these indoors?

Yes, use a grill pan or an electric indoor grill if outdoor grilling isn’t an option.

What type of tomatoes should I use for the sauce?

Canned crushed tomatoes work well for consistency and flavor.

Conclusion

Grilled beef skewers with peppers and spicy onion sauce offer a delicious and satisfying meal with minimal prep and maximum flavor. Whether for a summer barbecue or a cozy indoor dinner, this recipe delivers juicy meat, crisp vegetables, and a bold, zesty sauce that enhances every bite. It’s easy to customize, simple to store, and sure to impress your guests.

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