Name: Grilled Pineapple Beef Kabobs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs petite sirloin beef, cut into 1 inch cubes; 2 teaspoons black pepper; 1 tablespoon coarse salt; 1 1/2 teaspoons brown sugar; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil; 1/2 teaspoon red wine vinegar; 1 tablespoon gluten-free soy sauce; 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard; 1 large yellow onion, halved and quartered into large chunks; 1 green bell pepper, cut into large chunks; 1 orange bell pepper, cut into large chunks; 1 red bell pepper, cut into large chunks; 1 pineapple, outside removed and cut into large chunks

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant colors and an irresistible harmony of savory and sweet, these Grilled Pineapple Beef Kabobs are your new best friend. Tender petite sirloin cubes marry perfectly with juicy pineapple and a medley of bell peppers, all kissed by a flavorful marinade that’s brimming with depth and just a hint of tang. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer gathering or simply looking to brighten weeknight dinner, these kabobs deliver a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Let me take you through every juicy, smoky bite of this unforgettable recipe.

Grilled Pineapple Beef Kabobs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of these Grilled Pineapple Beef Kabobs comes from a handful of simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from seasoning and marinating the meat to giving the kabobs their vibrant colors and bursts of sweetness. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this recipe to life:

Petite sirloin beef (1 1/2 lbs): Tender and juicy cubes are perfect for grilling and absorb the marinade beautifully.
Black pepper (2 teaspoons): Adds a bold spice that complements the sweetness of pineapple.
Coarse salt (1 tablespoon): Enhances the natural flavors and helps tenderize the meat.
Brown sugar (1 1/2 teaspoons): Introduces a subtle caramelized sweetness that balances the savory notes.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Keeps the beef moist and aids in grilling without sticking.
Sesame oil (1/4 teaspoon): Imparts a nutty aroma that elevates the marinade.
Red wine vinegar (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle tang that cuts through the richness.
Gluten-free soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Brings umami depth and saltiness to the marinade.
Whole grain mustard (1 tablespoon): Offers a mild kick and texture contrast in the marinade.
Large yellow onion (1, halved and quartered): Sweet and slightly sharp, these chunks caramelize beautifully when grilled.
Green bell pepper (1, cut into chunks): Adds freshness, crunch, and a pop of color.
Orange bell pepper (1, cut into chunks): Brings a sweet citrus note and vibrant orange hues.
Red bell pepper (1, cut into chunks): Deepens the color palette and enhances flavor complexity.
Pineapple (1, peeled and cut into chunks): The star of the show, its juicy sweetness balances the savory beef perfectly.

How to Make Grilled Pineapple Beef Kabobs

Step 1: Prepare and Marinate the Beef

Start by placing your beef cubes into a large plastic bag, seasoning them generously with salt and pepper. This simple step lays the foundation for an evenly flavored dish. Next, add brown sugar, olive oil, sesame oil, red wine vinegar, soy sauce, and whole grain mustard to the bag. Seal it up and give everything a thorough toss until the beef is luxuriously coated. This marinade does more than add flavor—it tenderizes and infuses each bite with a complex blend of sweet, tangy, and umami flavors. For best results, pop the bag into the fridge for at least 30 minutes, though letting it sit for four hours makes the beef incredibly tender and flavorful.

Step 2: Get Your Grill Ready

While the beef marinates, take the opportunity to heat up your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. This ensures the surface is hot enough to sear those kabobs quickly, locking in juices and creating those appealing char marks that give grilled food its signature taste and texture. If you’re using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.

Step 3: Assemble Your Kabobs

Remove the beef from the marinade, gently shaking off any excess marinade but save it—you’ll brush it onto the kabobs while grilling for extra flavor and moisture. Then thread the beef, alternating with chunks of onion, green, orange, and red bell peppers, and pineapple onto each skewer. Using large chunks ensures the veggies and pineapple grill nicely without falling apart, and the alternating colors create a visually stunning presentation that’s just as delightful as the taste.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Place your assembled kabobs on the hot grill. Quickly brush them with some of the reserved marinade, cover the grill, and cook for about 5 minutes. Then flip the kabobs over, brush with the remaining marinade, and grill another 5 minutes. This timing gets you to a beautiful medium rare, tender and juicy with just enough char for texture and flavor. Feel free to cook longer if you prefer your beef more done, but be mindful not to overcook, so the pineapple stays tender and sweet.

How to Serve Grilled Pineapple Beef Kabobs

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or parsley adds a pop of green freshness and a light herbal contrast to the smoky kabobs, while a squeeze of lime juice can brighten every bite with a zingy finish. For an extra dash of heat, consider a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of spicy aioli on the side.

Side Dishes

These Grilled Pineapple Beef Kabobs pair beautifully with simple, light sides that complement rather than compete with their vibrant flavors. Think fluffy coconut rice to echo the tropical vibe, a crisp garden salad drizzled with a citrus vinaigrette, or charred corn on the cob for a delightful textural balance. Roasted sweet potatoes are another flavorful option that adds a natural sweetness and hearty touch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your kabobs over a bed of mixed greens or inside warm pita bread for handheld kabob sandwiches. Alternately, slice the grilled beef and pineapple off the skewers and toss everything together with fresh herbs and a light dressing for a vibrant grilled salad that bursts with flavor from every forkful.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Grilled Pineapple Beef Kabobs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the kabobs separate from any fresh garnishes or sauces to maintain their texture and freshness.

Freezing

While the grilled beef and veggies can be frozen, the pineapple’s texture may change slightly after thawing. If you do freeze, separate the kabobs individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Use within 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the kabobs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through, which helps retain moisture without overcooking. You can also reheat on a grill pan over medium heat, flipping occasionally until warmed evenly.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for these kabobs?

Absolutely! While petite sirloin is perfect for tenderness, you can substitute with other cuts like ribeye or flank steak. Just ensure they’re cut into uniform cubes to cook evenly.

Is it necessary to soak the skewers before grilling?

If you are using wooden or bamboo skewers, soaking them for 30 minutes is important to prevent them from burning on the grill. Metal skewers do not require soaking.

Can I make these kabobs without a grill?

Definitely! A grill pan or even a broiler can work well. Just keep an eye on cooking times and turn the kabobs carefully to get even browning.

What can I use instead of pineapple if I want a different fruit?

Mango or peaches make excellent alternatives, offering similar sweetness and juiciness that pair well with beef and peppers.

How long should I marinate the beef for the best flavor?

Marinating for at least 30 minutes is the minimum to impart flavor, but 4 hours or overnight in the fridge will truly tenderize the beef and maximize taste.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the way sweet pineapple and smoky, seasoned beef come together on these Grilled Pineapple Beef Kabobs. Each bite offers a celebration of textures and tastes that’s bound to delight your friends and family. Whether you’re grilling for a casual weeknight dinner or a lively weekend BBQ, this recipe is a surefire way to impress and satisfy. So fire up your grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy one of the most joyful kabob experiences out there!

Grilled Pineapple Beef Kabobs Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 22 reviews

Author: Ethan
Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Delicious and vibrant Grilled Pineapple Beef Kabobs featuring tender petite sirloin marinated in a savory and slightly sweet blend of spices and sauces, paired perfectly with colorful fresh vegetables and juicy pineapple chunks. These kabobs are ideal for backyard barbecues or quick weeknight dinners, offering a balanced combination of smoky, tangy, and sweet flavors.

Instructions

Make the marinade: In a large plastic bag, add the beef cubes along with salt and black pepper. Toss well until the meat is evenly coated. Add the brown sugar, olive oil, sesame oil, red wine vinegar, gluten-free soy sauce, and whole grain mustard to the bag. Mix thoroughly so that all the beef pieces are coated with the marinade. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally for 4 hours, to allow the flavors to penetrate.
Prepare the grill: Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat. If using an indoor grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat to get it ready for cooking the kabobs.
Soak skewers and prep beef: Soak kabob skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling. Remove the beef from the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid, but reserve the marinade for later use.
Assemble the kabobs: Thread the beef cubes alternately with large chunks of yellow onion, green bell pepper, orange bell pepper, red bell pepper, and pineapple onto the skewers. Arrange as desired to balance flavors and colors.
Grill the kabobs: Place the assembled kabobs onto the preheated grill. Brush the tops with some of the reserved marinade. Cover the grill and cook for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, carefully flip the kabobs and brush the other side with the remaining marinade. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes for medium-rare beef, or continue cooking to your preferred level of doneness.

Notes

For best flavor, marinate the beef for at least 4 hours or overnight if possible.
Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill.
You can substitute petite sirloin with sirloin tip or top round if preferred.
If grilling indoors, a grill pan or broiler works well.
Be careful not to overcook the beef; medium-rare keeps it juicy and tender.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American