Name: Smashed Beef Kebab With Cucumber Yogurt
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup onion, grated; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1 tablespoon olive oil; For the cucumber yogurt:; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1/2 cup cucumber, grated and drained; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt to taste; 1–2 tablespoons fresh herbs (dill or parsley), chopped

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I like making these smashed beef kebabs when I want something flavorful, juicy, and a little different from traditional kebabs. Paired with a cool cucumber yogurt sauce, this dish feels fresh, balanced, and perfect for a satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these kebabs are packed with bold flavor while still being easy to prepare. The beef turns out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, and the cucumber yogurt adds a refreshing contrast. I also enjoy how versatile they are, whether I serve them in flatbread, over rice, or on their own. Smashed Beef Kebab With Cucumber Yogurt

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
ground beef
garlic, minced
onion, grated
salt
black pepper
paprika
cumin
olive oil

for the cucumber yogurt:
plain yogurt
cucumber, grated and drained
garlic, minced
lemon juice
salt
fresh herbs (such as dill or parsley)

Directions

I start by combining the ground beef with garlic, grated onion, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cumin in a bowl. I mix everything gently until just combined.

I shape the mixture into small portions and press or “smash” them onto skewers or form them into flat kebab shapes.

I heat a pan or grill over medium-high heat and cook the kebabs until browned and cooked through, turning as needed to get a nice crust.

For the cucumber yogurt, I mix the yogurt with grated and drained cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and fresh herbs. I chill it briefly to let the flavors come together.

I serve the kebabs hot with the cool cucumber yogurt on the side or spooned over the top.

Servings and timing

I usually get about 4 servings from this recipe.
Preparation takes around 15 minutes, and cooking takes about 10–12 minutes, so everything is ready in about 25–30 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add chili flakes for a bit of heat or mix in fresh herbs directly into the beef for extra flavor. I also like serving these kebabs in pita with lettuce and tomatoes for a more complete meal. Another variation I enjoy is using ground lamb instead of beef for a richer taste.

storage/reheating

I store leftover kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

When reheating, I warm them in a pan over medium heat to keep the exterior slightly crisp. The cucumber yogurt is best kept cold and stored separately for up to 2 days. Smashed Beef Kebab With Cucumber Yogurt

FAQs

Can I cook these kebabs in the oven?

Yes, I can bake them in the oven, though I prefer pan or grill cooking for a better crust.

How do I keep the kebabs from falling apart?

I make sure not to overwork the meat and press it firmly when shaping so it holds together well.

Can I make the cucumber yogurt ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare it a few hours in advance and keep it chilled until serving.

What can I serve with these kebabs?

I enjoy serving them with rice, flatbread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I freeze the kebabs?

Yes, I can freeze them either raw or cooked. I thaw them before cooking or reheating.

Conclusion

I enjoy making these smashed beef kebabs with cucumber yogurt because they’re flavorful, easy, and perfectly balanced. It’s a dish I like to prepare when I want something satisfying with a fresh and cooling element on the side.