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 pound ground beef; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Wooden skewers, soaked in water; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Beef Kebab with Yogurt Aioli during the summer months. The combination of tender, spiced beef skewers paired with a cool, creamy yogurt sauce creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. Cooking the kebabs over an open flame brings out a smoky richness, while the yogurt aioli adds a refreshing tang. It’s perfect for entertaining or just treating myself to a delicious meal outside. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it my go-to recipe for gatherings!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T11:50:28.697Z

When I first tried Beef Kebab with Yogurt Aioli at a local festival, I was instantly captivated by the flavors. The secret lies in marinading the beef with an array of spices that not only tenderize the meat but also infuse it with vibrant flavors. Using a combination of cumin, paprika, and garlic powder is essential for that authentic taste.

I learned that grilling the kebabs over high heat allows them to char beautifully, enhancing both the aroma and taste. The yogurt aioli is equally important; it balances the spices with its creaminess, making each bite feel indulgent yet light. I highly recommend letting the kebabs rest for a few minutes after grilling to retain all the juiciness.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy beef marinated with flavorful spices
Creamy yogurt aioli that adds a refreshing dip
Great for summer barbecues and gatherings

      

Perfecting the Beef Kebab

The secret to a juicy beef kebab lies in the marinating process. The combination of cumin and paprika doesn’t just provide flavor; it aids in tenderizing the meat. Allowing the beef mixture to rest for at least 20 minutes in the refrigerator helps the spices permeate the meat, enhancing the overall depth of flavor. If time allows, marinate for up to two hours for an even richer taste.

When shaping the kebabs, ensure they are compact but not overly tight. This allows for better cooking and prevents them from falling apart on the grill. I find that forming them into slightly tapered cylinders helps them cook evenly and develop a beautiful char. If the mixture feels too sticky, dampen your hands lightly with water to make shaping easier.

Grilling Tips for Success

Grilling your kebabs over medium-high heat ensures they cook quickly while developing a gorgeous smoky flavor. Preheat the grill until it reaches around 400°F to 450°F, ensuring that the grates are well-oiled to prevent sticking. Grill the skewers for about 4-5 minutes on each side, watching for a nice char on the outside. The internal temperature should reach 160°F for medium doneness, but feel free to adjust to your preference.

If you notice that the kebabs are browning too quickly, simply move them to a cooler part of the grill. The goal is to have a nice, golden crust without charring them completely. You can also brush them lightly with olive oil during grilling to keep them moist and enhance their flavor.

Yogurt Aioli Variations

While the yogurt aioli recipe is delightful as is, feel free to experiment with flavors. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of sriracha. If you prefer a more herbaceous flavor, consider incorporating fresh dill or mint. These herbs can elevate the dip and make it a perfect complement to the beef's richness.

To store any leftover aioli, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making it an excellent make-ahead option. If you're planning for a gathering, prepare the aioli a day in advance to let it reach its full flavor potential while saving time on the day of your event.

Ingredients

For the Beef Kebabs

1 pound ground beef
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
Wooden skewers, soaked in water

For the Yogurt Aioli

1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine the ground beef, cumin, paprika, garlic, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Mix everything until well combined, then refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Make the Yogurt Aioli

In another bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, and season with salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and set aside.

Assemble the Kebabs

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Form the beef mixture into small cylindrical shapes and thread them onto the soaked skewers.

Grill the Kebabs

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until desired doneness is achieved. Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes.

Serve

Serve the beef kebabs hot with the yogurt aioli on the side for dipping. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding some chopped mint to your yogurt aioli for a fresh twist. Additionally, make sure not to overcrowd the grill
this will help achieve perfect charring on your kebabs.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your beef kebabs with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal. I love serving them alongside a tabbouleh or a classic Greek salad, which adds a refreshing crunch. You can also include pita bread for wrapping the kebabs, providing a delightful texture and making it easy for guests to enjoy.

For an extra touch, garnish the kebabs and yogurt aioli with lemon wedges. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before eating brightens the flavors, enhancing the dish's overall freshness. Don’t forget to sprinkle some additional chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover kebabs, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them gently in a skillet over low heat or throw them back on the grill for a couple of minutes, just to warm through without drying them out. This method helps maintain the juicy texture and delicious flavor.

The yogurt aioli also keeps well in the fridge, but it's best consumed within three days for optimal taste. If you decide to freeze any, ensure it's in a tightly sealed container. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight for best results, then give it a good stir before serving to restore its creaminess.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken or lamb instead of beef?

Absolutely! Both chicken and lamb are excellent alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How long can I marinate the beef?

You can marinate the beef for up to 24 hours if you want even more flavor.

→ Can I prepare the yogurt aioli in advance?

Yes, the yogurt aioli can be made a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator to let the flavors develop.

→ What can I serve with these kebabs?

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