Charcoal-Grilled Brazilian Beef Skewers with Chimichurri Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender beef skewers marinated in garlic and lime, grilled over charcoal to smoky perfection, served with a vibrant chimichurri sauce. This brazilian-inspired beef ready in about 60 minutes blends minced garlic cloves, tablespoons olive oil, teaspoon salt into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 50 min Cook: 10 min Serves 4 Brazilian cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 1.5 pounds beef sirloin cubes, 4 minced garlic cloves, 3 tablespoons lime juice, 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Toss the beef to coat evenly and marinate for 45 minutes at room temperature.
  2. Step 2: Meanwhile, prepare chimichurri sauce by mixing 1 cup chopped fresh parsley, 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes, 2 tablespoons water, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Stir well and set aside to let flavors meld.
  3. Step 3: Preheat a charcoal grill to medium-high heat (about 450°F). Thread the marinated beef cubes onto 8 soaked wooden skewers, distributing evenly.
  4. Step 4: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, turning once, until the beef is nicely charred on the edges and medium-rare inside.
  5. Step 5: Remove skewers from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving with the chimichurri sauce spooned generously over the top.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Charcoal-Grilled Brazilian Beef Skewers with Chimichurri Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 60 minutes (50 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Charcoal-Grilled Brazilian Beef Skewers with Chimichurri Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Charcoal-Grilled Brazilian Beef Skewers with Chimichurri Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Charcoal-Grilled Brazilian Beef Skewers with Chimichurri Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Charcoal-Grilled Brazilian Beef Skewers with Chimichurri Sauce?

Brazilian beef like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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