Tired of the same old dinner ideas? Switch things up with these air fryer ground beef and bacon kebabs. With the perfect blend of smoky bacon and well-seasoned ground beef, each bite is packed with flavor. These kebabs are simple to make, making them a great option whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends. Let’s jump into how to make these tasty kebabs.
Air Fryer Ground Beef Kebabs Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juicier kebabs)
- 4 strips of bacon, chopped into small pieces
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried parsley)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp chili powder (optional for a slight kick)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes if wooden)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped bacon, onion, garlic, parsley, paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed but be careful not to overmix as it can make the kebabs tough.
- Shape the kebabs: Divide the mixture into 6-8 equal portions. Shape each portion around a skewer, pressing firmly to ensure the meat mixture holds its shape. Make sure each kebab is about 4-5 inches in length.
- Arrange in the air fryer: Place the kebabs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch for even cooking.
- Cook: Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The bacon will add a smoky, crispy layer while the ground beef stays juicy. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Serve: Remove the kebabs from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce, fresh salad, or warm pita bread.
Loving these ground beef kebabs? Pin the image below to your Pinterest board and share the deliciousness!
Tips for Perfect Kebabs
- Avoid overmixing: It’s crucial to mix just enough to combine the ingredients. Overmixing can lead to dry, dense kebabs.
- Use cold ingredients: Chilling the meat mixture for 10 minutes before shaping can help it hold together better during cooking.
- Soak wooden skewers: If using wooden skewers, soaking them for at least 30 minutes prevents them from burning.
Recipe Variations
- Cheesy Kebabs: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar to the mixture for a cheesy surprise.
- Spicy Kebabs: Incorporate red chili flakes or finely diced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Mediterranean Kebabs: Mix in crumbled feta, chopped olives, and a touch of oregano.
- Herb Kebabs: Replace parsley with a combination of fresh dill, cilantro, or mint for a unique flavor.
- Sweet and Savory: Add a drizzle of honey or a teaspoon of brown sugar to balance the smoky bacon with a hint of sweetness.
- Vegetable Combo: Skewer chunks of bell pepper, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes alongside the meat for added texture and flavor.
