These grilled steak and shrimp kabobs are a fun and tasty way to enjoy a meal! Juicy steak and plump shrimp are threaded onto skewers, bringing together a burst of flavors that everyone loves.
What’s more, they’re super easy to make! Just marinate, skewer, and grill. I like to serve them with a side of rice or a fresh salad. Trust me, they won’t last long on the table! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: This cut is flavorful and tender when grilled. If sirloin is not available, consider using ribeye for more marbling, or flank steak for a leaner option. For a budget-friendly choice, top sirloin works well too!
Shrimp: Large shrimp is ideal for kabobs, but feel free to use scallops or even chicken if shrimp isn’t your thing. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time for chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a lovely crunch. If you want variety, try using yellow squash or even mushrooms for a different texture. Just make sure they’re cut to a similar thickness!
Bell Pepper: You can use any color of bell pepper based on your preference or what you have on hand. Alternatively, cherry tomatoes or even chunks of pineapple can add a sweet contrast.
Garlic: Fresh garlic provides a rich flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too. Just use 1/8 teaspoon for each clove to keep the flavor balanced.
How Do I Ensure My Kabobs Cook Evenly?
To get perfectly cooked kabobs, attention to threading and cooking is key. Start by cutting all your ingredients into uniform sizes; this makes sure everything cooks evenly. Alternate ingredients on your skewers; this way, the steak and shrimp won’t cook at different rates.
- When threading, leave a little space between pieces. This helps the heat circulate well.
- For shrimp, avoid overlapping them on the skewers to ensure they cook through.
- Keep an eye on the grill and turn the skewers every few minutes for even cooking and those lovely grill marks!
How to Make Grilled Steak and Shrimp Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 zucchini, cut into thick rounds
- 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Miscellaneous:
- Bamboo or metal skewers (if using bamboo, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep time and at least 30 minutes to marinate the steak and shrimp (up to 2 hours for steak). The total cooking time on the grill is about 10-12 minutes. So, in total, you should plan for about 1 hour to enjoy these delicious kabobs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, black pepper, and salt. This will be your tasty marinade that adds flavor to your kabobs!
2. Marinate the Steak and Shrimp:
Now, divide the marinade in half. Take one half and pour it over the cubed steak in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (and up to 2 hours for more flavor). In another bag or dish, add the shrimp and the remaining marinade. Let the shrimp marinate for about 15 to 30 minutes. It’s a quick and easy way to boost flavor!
3. Prepare the Vegetables:
While your meat and shrimp are soaking up all that goodness, prepare your vegetables. Take the skewers and thread the zucchini, bell pepper, and red onion pieces onto them. Make sure to arrange them evenly so they cook nicely on the grill.
4. Grill the Kabobs:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once your steak and shrimp have marinated, you’re ready to assemble the kabobs! Thread the marinated steak onto the skewers, alternating with the prepared vegetable pieces. Then, add the shrimp to other skewers, making sure they don’t overlap. This ensures even cooking!
5. Cook and Serve:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally. You’re looking for the steak to be at your desired doneness (medium-rare, medium, etc.) and for the shrimp to be pink and opaque. When they start looking delicious, they’re ready! Remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before digging in.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your flavorful grilled steak and shrimp kabobs as a tasty meal or a fun dish for a gathering! Yum!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat for Kabobs?
Absolutely! You can substitute the sirloin steak with other cuts like ribeye or flank steak, or even use chicken if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the marinating time, as chicken typically needs at least 1-2 hours to become tender and flavorful.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari, which is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure to check the label on the Worcestershire sauce, as some brands may contain gluten. There are gluten-free variations available!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have a Grill?
No grill? No problem! You can cook the kabobs in the oven by preheating it to 400°F (200°C) and placing the skewers on a baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the steak is cooked to your liking and the shrimp are opaque.
How to Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or you can pop them in the microwave for a quick option. Enjoy them in a salad or wrap!