Surprise Meatball Kabobs
Juicy meatballs with olives and vegetables are grilled on skewers, offering smoky, savory flavors perfect for casual gatherings and outdoor cookouts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak four 8-inch bamboo skewers in water for 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, combine the ground beef, beaten egg, chili powder, garlic salt, and dried oregano in a bowl.
- Mix lightly but thoroughly.
- Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions.
- Form each portion around a ripe olive.
- Thread 3 meatballs alternately with 2 zucchini slices on each skewer.
- Lightly grease an unheated grill or grilling grid.
- Place the meatball skewers on the grill over medium-low coals.
- Grill for 12 to 15 minutes until cooked through, turning and brushing with barbecue sauce occasionally.
- Add a cherry tomato to the end of each skewer after cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan or feta cheese with the ground beef. If you don't have zucchini, bell peppers or mushrooms can be great substitutes. To make the meatballs more manageable, use a small ice cream scoop for portioning. Always soak the skewers to prevent burning on the grill. These kabobs are a fantastic way to enjoy American recipes with a twist!
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatball kabobs with a side of fresh salad or grilled corn for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with mashed potatoes or a tangy coleslaw. Drizzle extra barbecue sauce over the kabobs for added flavor, or serve with a dipping sauce like ranch or tzatziki. These kabobs are perfect for a summer barbecue or family gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatball kabobs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them on a grill or stovetop skillet for a crispy exterior.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Surprise Meatball Kabobs contains roughly 1385 calories, with 69g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 73g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (137% of the Daily Value), iron (77% of the Daily Value), and calcium (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1114mg per serving (48% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef for these kabobs?
Yes, you can substitute lean ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef in this recipe. Keep in mind that chicken may require a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor, so consider adding a bit more garlic salt or herbs.
How can I make these kabobs spicier?
To add some heat, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add some crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. Another option is to serve the kabobs with a spicy dipping sauce, such as sriracha or a chipotle ranch.
Can I prepare the meatballs in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to grill. Just be sure to keep them covered to maintain moisture. This allows for a quick and convenient grilling experience when you're ready to serve.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).