These Cajun Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Steak Skewers are bursting with bold flavors! Juicy steak is seasoned with Cajun spice and topped with cheesy goodness. Perfect for a quick, tasty meal!
I love making these skewers because they cook fast in the air fryer and smell amazing! Just add your favorite veggies, and you’ve got a fun dinner ready in no time—easy peasy! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: I like using ribeye for its rich flavor and tenderness, but sirloin is also a great option. If you want a leaner choice, consider using flank or even chicken breast for a lighter meal.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is the way to go; it gives the best flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for a quick fix. Just remember that fresh has more oomph!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty bite. If Parmesan isn’t on hand, Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast can work in a pinch for a dairy-free alternative.
Cajun Seasoning: This spice blend is key for that Southern flair. If you don’t have it, make your own using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and cayenne. It’s versatile and packs a punch!
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps the coating stick and adds flavor. However, other oils like avocado oil or even melted butter can substitute nicely if you prefer something different.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Even Cooking on Skewers?
Getting your steak cooked just right on skewers is all about spacing and flipping. There’s no need to crowd the skewers; leave some room between each piece. This helps them cook evenly.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) first—this makes a big difference.
- As you place the skewers in the fryer, remember to cook in batches if necessary. Don’t pack them in too tight!
- Flip halfway through the cooking time to ensure every side gets browned and cooked through. This way, you’ll avoid undercooked or overcooked bites.
How to Make Cajun Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Steak Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 pound steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Skewers (bamboo or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 10 minutes to cook in the air fryer. You’ll be enjoying your delicious cajun garlic Parmesan steak skewers in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This is an important step to ensure your steak cooks evenly and gets that nice, crispy crust!
2. Mix the Flavorful Coating:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, olive oil, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it forms a tasty mixture. This coating will give your steak amazing flavor.
3. Coat the Steak:
Add the steak cubes to the bowl with the garlic-Parmesan mixture. Toss the cubes gently until all the pieces are well-coated. Every bite should have that marinade on it to maximize flavor!
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Now it’s time to thread! Take the marinated steak cubes and carefully thread them onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. This will help with even cooking in the air fryer.
5. Air Fry the Skewers:
Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If you have a small air fryer, you might need to cook them in batches. It’s important not to overcrowd the basket for the best results!
6. Cooking Time:
Cook the skewers for about 8-10 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through cooking so they brown nicely on all sides. Use a meat thermometer to check if they are cooked to your liking—135°F (57°C) is perfect for medium-rare.
7. Rest Before Serving:
Once the skewers are done, carefully remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices in, making your steak extra tender!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your skewers with some extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve them hot and enjoy every flavorful bite of your Cajun garlic Parmesan steak skewers!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Steak for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin or ribeye work great, you can also use tender cuts like filet mignon or flank steak. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the thickness and cut of the meat.
What if I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No problem! You can easily make a homemade Cajun blend using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Adjust the spice levels to your preference for a flavorful substitute!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover steak skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-4 minutes to keep them juicy. You can also microwave them, but they might lose some crunch.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the skewers in advance and marinate them for up to 24 hours in the fridge. Just make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to cook, let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before air frying for even cooking.
