Beef Caprese Skewers are the ultimate summer appetizer mash-up — think tender, juicy cubes of grilled beef nestled alongside creamy mozzarella, sweet cherry tomatoes, and aromatic basil, all brought together with a glossy balsamic glaze. This recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels as joyful to make as it is to devour: rustic, colorful, and positively bursting with Italian-American flavors. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just want to treat yourself on a weeknight, these skewers are bound to become your new go-to favorite for sharing (or not sharing).
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of fresh, vibrant ingredients for Beef Caprese Skewers, but each one plays a starring role in the final result. From the bold, beefy flavor to the cooling mozzarella and the garden-fresh basil, every element brings a pop of texture, color, and taste to the plate.
- Beef sirloin (1 lb, cut into 1-inch cubes): Choose a quality cut of beef for the juiciest, most tender bites.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Adds richness and helps the seasoning stick beautifully to the meat.
- Salt (1 tsp): Essential for bringing out all the flavors in the beef and other ingredients.
- Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Lends a gentle kick and rounds out the seasoning profile.
- Italian seasoning (1 tsp): This fragrant blend of herbs ties all the Italian-inspired elements together.
- Fresh mozzarella balls (8 oz, bocconcini or ciliegine): Mild, creamy, and classic for any Caprese creation.
- Cherry tomatoes (1 cup): Their natural sweetness adds color and balances out the savory beef.
- Fresh basil leaves (1/4 cup): The herbaceous note that makes Caprese sing — use whole leaves for the most gorgeous presentation.
- Balsamic glaze (2 tbsp, for drizzling): Adds a tangy-sweet finish and a touch of sheen.
- Wooden or metal skewers: Soak wooden skewers to prevent burning or stick with reusable metal ones for easy grilling.
How to Make Beef Caprese Skewers
Step 1: Marinate the Beef Cubes
Start by placing your beef sirloin cubes in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle over the olive oil, then add salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Toss everything gently until the beef is beautifully coated in the oil and herbs. This quick marinade infuses the meat with flavor and helps create a mouthwatering crust once it hits the grill.
Step 2: Assemble the Skewers
Time for a little edible art! Thread each skewer with a pattern: begin with a piece of beef, then a cherry tomato, followed by a mozzarella ball and a fresh basil leaf. Continue this order, leaving a little room between each ingredient so the heat can circulate. This not only ensures even cooking but also shows off the vibrant layers in every skewer.
Step 3: Grill to Perfection
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the assembled Beef Caprese Skewers onto the grates and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side. Turn each skewer gently, allowing the beef to sear on all sides while the tomatoes soften just a touch. Grill until the beef reaches your preferred doneness – but be careful not to overcook, as the best flavor shines through with juicy, tender meat.
Step 4: Rest and Finish with Balsamic Glaze
Once the skewers are grilled, transfer them to a platter and let them rest for about five minutes. This short wait lets the juices redistribute and keeps everything moist. Finish the skewers off with a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze, letting it cascade over the cheese and beef for that signature tangy, sweet bite.
How to Serve Beef Caprese Skewers
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra chopped basil, a few grinds of coarse black pepper, and perhaps a dusting of flaky sea salt can elevate Beef Caprese Skewers into a true showstopper. Fresh microgreens or a handful of baby arugula tumbled on the platter can also add a peppery bite and vibrant green contrast.
Side Dishes
Beef Caprese Skewers pair beautifully with a simple salad of mixed greens tossed in lemon vinaigrette, grilled summer vegetables, or crisp garlic bread. For a more substantial meal, serve the skewers over a bed of farro, quinoa, or even chilled pasta dressed with pesto.
Creative Ways to Present
Thread mini-skewers for individual appetizers at parties, or arrange the full-sized Beef Caprese Skewers in a starburst shape on a large platter with extra basil scattered between them. For dramatic flair, set the finished skewers on a wooden cutting board with bowls of extra balsamic glaze and herby olive oil for dipping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Beef Caprese Skewers, simply slide the remaining ingredients off the skewers and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will mellow and meld together, and they’ll keep well for up to two days.
Freezing
While fresh ingredients like mozzarella and tomatoes aren’t ideal for freezing, you can prepare and freeze the seasoned beef cubes ahead of time. When ready to serve, simply thaw the beef and assemble your skewers with fresh cheese and tomatoes for that perfect just-made taste.
Reheating
To reheat, arrange the leftover skewers or their components on a baking sheet and warm gently in a 300°F oven until just heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the cheese tough and the tomatoes watery. Finish with a fresh drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving again.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While sirloin gives you a nice balance of tenderness and flavor, you can use tenderloin for a more luxurious bite or flank steak for a beefier chew. Just be sure to cut the meat into even cubes so they cook uniformly on the grill.
Is it okay to make Beef Caprese Skewers in advance?
You can assemble the skewers a few hours ahead and refrigerate them until ready to grill. Just wait to drizzle the balsamic glaze until right before serving, as the tomatoes and cheese can absorb too much liquid if dressed too soon.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No grill? No problem! Use a grill pan or even a large skillet on your stovetop — just get it nice and hot to sear the beef and blister the tomatoes. You’ll still end up with all the delicious flavor and color.
Can I make Beef Caprese Skewers vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the beef for cubes of grilled eggplant, zucchini, or mushrooms. These veggies hold up beautifully and taste wonderful with the mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze.
What kind of balsamic glaze works best?
A good-quality, thick balsamic glaze will add the ideal sweet-and-sour punch to your Beef Caprese Skewers. You can use store-bought, or make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar with a little honey until syrupy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to wow friends, family, or even just yourself, try whipping up a platter of Beef Caprese Skewers. They’re stunning, packed with mouthwatering flavors, and sure to spark plenty of smiles at your next cookout or gathering. Grab those skewers and enjoy every colorful, juicy bite!
Print
Beef Caprese Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 6 skewers
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Beef Caprese Skewers are a delightful twist on the classic Caprese salad, featuring tender beef sirloin, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil, all grilled to perfection and drizzled with balsamic glaze. Perfect for summer entertaining or as a light meal.
Ingredients
For the Skewers:
- 1 lb beef sirloin (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
- wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Prepare the Beef: Toss beef cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Assemble Skewers: Thread skewers with beef, cherry tomato, mozzarella, and basil.
- Grill: Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Rest and Serve: Let skewers rest for 5 minutes, then drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
Notes
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- You can also use marinated mozzarella for added flavor.
- These skewers are great as an appetizer or served over a salad for a light meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
