Burger Kebabs

Imagine all the juicy, char-grilled flavor of a classic burger, but served on a stick. That’s the magic of Burger Kebabs — a fun, colorful twist on your favorite backyard staple. These kebabs layer seasoned beef patties with grilled veggies for a bold, satisfying bite that’s perfect for cookouts, parties, or even just switching up dinner on a regular weeknight.

Behind the Recipe

Burger night was getting predictable, and I wanted something that still delivered that smoky, savory flavor but with a little flair. One look at the skewer set in my drawer and it clicked — deconstruct the burger, build it into kebabs, and toss them on the grill. The result? All the satisfaction of a burger, with more charred edges, juicy centers, and flavor-packed veggies in every bite.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

While traditional kebabs trace back to Middle Eastern and South Asian cuisines, burger kebabs are a modern mash-up that blends American backyard favorites with grilling traditions from around the world. By turning ground beef patties into skewered bites, we honor that global grilling heritage while creating a dish that feels playful and new.

Why You’ll Love Burger Kebabs

This recipe is full of flavor and personality. Here’s why it works so well:

Versatile: Serve as a main dish, party platter, or slider alternative.

Budget-Friendly: Uses basic ingredients and stretches ground beef with veggies.

Quick and Easy: Preps fast and cooks in minutes on the grill or stovetop.

Customizable: Choose your favorite burger toppings and build your own kebab.

Crowd-Pleasing: Juicy, colorful, and always a conversation starter.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble ahead and grill when ready.

Great for Leftovers: Reheat easily or repurpose into wraps or rice bowls.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Here’s how to make sure your burger kebabs turn out juicy, flavorful, and grill-ready:

1. Use ground beef with some fat (around 80/20) to keep the patties tender and juicy.
2. Chill the formed patties before grilling so they stay firm on the skewer.
3. Cut vegetables to similar sizes so they cook evenly and hold up on the grill.
4. Brush with oil before grilling to prevent sticking and boost char.
5. Soak wooden skewers for at least 20 minutes if using to prevent burning.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Keep it simple — just a few essentials and you’re ready to go.

Mixing Bowl: For seasoning and shaping the burger meat.

Skewers: Metal or soaked wooden skewers hold everything together.

Grill or Grill Pan: To sear and cook the kebabs evenly.

Cutting Board and Knife: For prepping your veggies quickly.

Basting Brush: To apply oil and optional glaze or sauce.

Ingredients in Burger Kebabs

This recipe brings together burger classics and veggie flair, all on one stick.

1. Ground Beef: 1 pound (80/20). Juicy and full of flavor, it forms the base of your burger bites.
2. Breadcrumbs: 1/4 cup. Helps bind the patties and keep them tender.
3. Egg: 1 large. Acts as a binder to hold the mini burgers together.
4. Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon. Adds savory depth.
5. Salt: 1/2 teaspoon. Essential for bringing out flavor.
6. Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon. A gentle kick to balance the richness.
7. Red Onion: 1 large, cut into chunks. Adds sweetness and bite.
8. Bell Peppers: 2 (any color), cut into chunks. Brings color and crunch.
9. Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup. Juicy bursts of flavor between bites.
10. Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon. For brushing the kebabs before grilling.

Ingredient Substitutions

Make it your own with these easy swaps:

Ground Beef: Use turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground alternative.

Breadcrumbs: Almond flour or crushed crackers for a gluten-free option.

Red Onion: Yellow or white onion can also work.

Bell Peppers: Try zucchini or mushrooms for variety.

Egg: A flax egg works if you need an egg-free version.

Ingredient Spotlight

Ground Beef: Look for 80/20 ground beef — the fat helps keep the patties juicy, especially when exposed to direct heat.

Cherry Tomatoes: Their natural sweetness balances the smoky char from the grill and brings a fresh pop to every bite.

Instructions for Making Burger Kebabs

It’s time to skewer up some flavor. Follow these easy steps:

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined, then form into small flattened patties (about the size of a golf ball, slightly pressed).
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Lightly oil the grill grates or grill pan to prevent sticking.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Thread the skewers with a pattern of burger patty, red onion chunk, bell pepper piece, and cherry tomato. Repeat until skewers are full, ending with a veggie if needed.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Grill kebabs for about 3–4 minutes per side, turning carefully until patties are fully cooked and veggies are slightly charred.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Brush with a little olive oil or your favorite glaze in the last minute of grilling.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Serve hot off the grill with dipping sauces or tucked into a pita or bun for a handheld twist.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

These kebabs are all about the balance of textures — juicy meat, soft but charred vegetables, and a smoky grilled finish. The patties stay moist thanks to the egg and breadcrumbs, while the veggies add snap and sweetness with every bite.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Let’s keep things easy and flavorful:

• Chill patties before skewering so they don’t fall apart.
• Use uniform veggie pieces to cook evenly.
• Don’t press the patties too tightly — a lighter hand makes a juicier result.

What to Avoid

Here’s what to watch out for:

• Overworking the meat: It can make the patties tough.
• Uneven cooking: Rotate skewers to grill all sides evenly.
• Skipping oil: Light brushing helps avoid sticking and promotes browning.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 320

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These kebabs are perfect for prepping ahead. Assemble them up to 24 hours in advance and store covered in the fridge. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 2–3 days and reheated in a skillet or oven. Not recommended for freezing due to the fresh veggies.

How to Serve Burger Kebabs

Serve on their own with dipping sauces like garlic aioli, ketchup, or mustard. Or go all out and wrap them in flatbread with lettuce and pickles. They also shine over a salad or grain bowl for a low-carb twist.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Got extras? Try these ideas:

• Chop and toss into a pasta salad.
• Stuff into pita pockets with tzatziki.
• Add to a breakfast scramble or omelet.

Additional Tips

For extra flavor, mix shredded cheese into the burger mix. Want it spicy? Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. You can also brush with BBQ sauce for a smoky-sweet glaze.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve the kebabs over a bed of greens with colorful veggie sides. Add a drizzle of garlic yogurt sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Present on a wooden board for that backyard-chic look.

Variations to Try

• Cheddar-Stuffed: Place a cube of cheese inside each mini patty.
• Spicy Jalapeño: Add sliced jalapeños between layers or into the meat mix.
• Italian-Inspired: Mix meat with oregano and parmesan, then skewer with zucchini.
• Asian Twist: Brush with teriyaki glaze and skewer with mushrooms and scallions.
• Breakfast Style: Add cooked bacon pieces and serve with fried eggs on the side.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make these without a grill?

Yes, a grill pan or even a broiler works great.

Q2: Can I make them vegetarian?

Use plant-based ground meat and veggie-only skewers.

Q3: Can I use different meats?

Absolutely — turkey, chicken, or lamb work well.

Q4: Do I need to use skewers?

No, you can grill the mini patties and veggies separately.

Q5: Can I freeze them?

It’s best fresh, but uncooked patties can be frozen. Assemble skewers later.

Q6: What sauces go best?

Garlic aioli, BBQ sauce, or spicy mayo are all great.

Q7: Can I cook them in the oven?

Yes, bake at 400°F for about 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Q8: What’s the best size for patties?

About the size of a golf ball, gently pressed flat.

Q9: How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?

Use enough binder (egg and breadcrumbs) and chill before cooking.

Q10: What can I serve with them?

Potato wedges, grilled corn, or a fresh green salad.

Conclusion

Burger Kebabs take everything you love about a backyard burger and stack it up in a fun, flavorful way. With juicy mini patties, colorful grilled veggies, and all the smoky char you crave, they’re a delicious way to mix up your grilling game. Trust me, once you try these, plain burgers might never be enough again.

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