Easy Serbian Cevapi Sausages – Balkan Grilled Meat Recipe

This authentic Serbian cevapi recipe makes juicy, smoky, skinless sausages with a signature springy texture — the national street food of the Balkans made right at home. A beef and pork blend seasoned with garlic and paprika, kneaded with cold sparkling water, and rested overnight, then grilled to perfection. Serve with lepinja bread raw onions and ajvar for the full authentic Balkan experience.

Prep Time15

Cook Time15

Cooling Time4

Total Time4 30

Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Authentic Cevapi Recipe, Balkan Grilled Meat Recipe, Balkan sausages recipe, Bosnian cevapi recipe, cevapcici recipe, cevapcici sausages, cevapi recipe, cevapi sausages, cevapi without casings, grilled cevapi, homemade cevapi, how to make cevapi, Serbian cevapcici, Serbian cevapi, Serbian grilled sausages

Servings: servings

Calories: 711kcal

Author: George - U Keep Cooking

Equipment

Gas or Charcoal Grill
Cosori Air Fryer
Nonstick Skillet
Large Mixing Bowls

Ingredients

3 lbs ground beef 80/20 ideal
3 lbs ground pork
10 cloves garlic very finely minced or crushed to paste
4 teaspoons salt important for texture + flavor
2½ teaspoons black pepper (freshly ground)
2½ teaspoons baking soda
¾ cup sparkling water or ice-cold water
1½ tablespoons sweet paprika

Instructions

Preparation and Mixing: In a large bowl, mix the ground beef and ground pork until well incorporated. Add the garlic paste, salt, black pepper, baking soda, and sweet paprika to the meat. Slowly pour in the cold sparkling water while kneading the meat by hand for at least 5 minutes to create a smooth, springy texture. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) to allow the flavors to meld. Roll the meat into small, finger-sized sausages about 3 inches long and 1 inch thick.
Grilling Instructions (Authentic Method) Heat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Place the sausages on the grill and cook for 10–12 minutes. Turn the cevapi frequently to ensure even browning and a smoky charred exterior. Remove once the internal temperature reaches 160°F and the meat is firm.
Air Fryer Instructions (Quick Method) Set the air fryer to 375°F. Place the sausages in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between each one for airflow. Air fry for 10–12 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure they brown on all sides.
Pan Frying Instructions (Stovetop Method): Add a small amount of oil to a large skillet over medium heat. Place the sausages in the pan, being careful not to crowd them. Cook for 10–15 minutes, rolling them frequently to brown all sides evenly. Ensure they are cooked through and have a nice crust before removing from the heat.

Nutrition