My Favorite Pesto Beef Kabob Meal Prep

If there's one thing I never get tired of prepping, it's kabobs. There's something so satisfying about skewering chunks of meat and colorful veggies, grilling them up, and knowing I've got a high-protein, flavor-packed meal waiting in the fridge.

This Pesto Beef Kabob Meal Prep recipe checks all the boxes for me: it's keto-friendly, Whole30-approved, paleo, and totally customizable depending on what you've got on hand. I love how simple it is... just 10 minutes of prep, 10 minutes of cook time, and it's honestly one of the tastiest ways to make beef feel exciting during the week.

Whether I'm meal prepping for myself or grilling with friends, these kabobs never disappoint.

What Are Kabobs, Anyway?

Kabobs (or kebabs, if you're sticking to the traditional spelling) trace back to Turkish soldiers in the 1300s who roasted meat on their swords over open fires. The name actually comes from the Turkish word şiş kebap, which literally means "skewered roasted meat."

These days, kabobs can include beef, lamb, chicken, fish, or even plant-based alternatives, often paired with veggies like onions and peppers. I've taken that inspiration and made it meal-prep friendly-with a flavorful twist.

Why You'll Love These Beef Kabobs

• 100% Whole30, paleo, and keto compliant
• Ready in about 20 minutes
• 37g of protein per serving
• Loaded with healthy fats
• Perfect for the grill or stovetop
• Great hot or cold, so they work for lunch or dinner

Looking for more Whole30 inspiration? Check out our Whole30 Meal Prep Recipes for more ideas.

Ingredients

Beef Kabobs:

• 12 oz sirloin steak, cut into 8 1-inch cubes
• 1 bell pepper, cut into large chunks
• ½ red onion, chopped
• Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)

Homemade Pesto:

• 2 cups fresh basil (or sub spinach)
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ⅓ cup pine nuts
• 3 garlic cloves
• Himalayan sea salt, to taste

Instructions

1. Make the pesto:
   Combine basil, olive oil, pine nuts, garlic, and salt in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Set aside or refrigerate until ready to use.
2. Assemble the kabobs:
   Thread steak, bell pepper, and red onion onto skewers in alternating layers.
3. Grill or cook:
   Grill on medium-high for 3-5 minutes per side until the steak reaches your desired doneness. You can also cook in a hot cast iron pan indoors.
4. Add the pesto:
   Drizzle the pesto over the kabobs once they're cooked. Serve with your favorite low-carb sides or store in containers for meal prep.

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~510
• Protein: 37g
• Fat: 40g
• Carbs: 7g
• Fiber: 2g

Why I Use Pine Nuts

One of the sneaky MVPs of this recipe is the pesto. Not only does it taste amazing, but it's packed with nutrient-dense ingredients, especially pine nuts. Did you know pine nuts have more protein than any other nut?

They've been shown to help with:

• Energy levels
• Bone and eye health
• Immune function
• Heart disease prevention
• Weight loss support (thanks to their impact on satiety)

Plus, that classic pesto flavor never gets old.

Grill Tip: The Maillard Reaction

Here's a quick science geek-out moment: when you grill or sear meat, something magical happens called the Maillard reaction. It's a chemical reaction between amino acids and natural sugars in the food, which gives beef that rich, browned, almost caramelized flavor. It's why grilled meat tastes so much better than boiled or steamed.

So if you can, fire up the grill. Your taste buds will thank you.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this with chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely. Swap in boneless chicken thighs or breasts and adjust cooking time as needed.

Q: What if I don't have pine nuts?
You can substitute walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds in the pesto.

Q: How long will these last in the fridge?
They'll stay fresh for up to 4 days in airtight containers.

How to Store

Once cooked and cooled, remove kabobs from skewers and store in meal prep containers. Add a dollop of pesto on the side or drizzle on top. Keep refrigerated and use within 4 days.

How to Reheat

These reheat well in the microwave for about 90 seconds, or in a hot skillet for a crispier texture. If you're using a toaster oven or air fryer, 3-5 minutes at 350°F does the trick.

Final Thoughts

This Pesto Beef Kabob Meal Prep recipe is one of my absolute favorites for busy weeks. It's hearty, flavorful, and fits into just about any eating style-whether you're focused on keto, Whole30, or just trying to eat clean.

Looking for more quick and clean dinners? Check out our full library of Dinner Meal Prep Recipes.

And if you're new to meal prepping, don't miss our free Meal Prep Starter Guide to help you get organized and stay consistent.

Let me know in the comments: have you tried pesto with beef before? It's a combo I didn't expect to love as much as I do.

Meal prep fam, if lately you've been asking, "Where's the beef?" when it comes to your weekly meal prep regimen, don't have a cow! We are certain that these pesto beef kabobs are the answer you've been waiting for. For more beef ideas, check out our 25 High-Protein Beef Meal Prep Recipes!