These grilled steak and shrimp kabobs are a tasty treat! Juicy steak pieces and flavorful shrimp come together on skewers, creating a fun and easy meal for any cookout.
Nothing beats the smoky flavor from the grill! I love to serve them with fresh veggies on the side—perfect for when you need to impress friends or just enjoy a delicious dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Steak: Sirloin or ribeye works well for tenderness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for flank steak. You can also use chicken or firm tofu for a different twist.
Shrimp: Large shrimp are fantastic, but if they’re not available, bay shrimp or even fish can be a great substitute. Just keep in mind that cooking times will vary.
Bell Peppers: Red and green peppers add color and sweetness. Feel free to swap them with other colors like yellow or orange for a sweeter taste, or omit them entirely if you prefer fewer veggies.
Marinade Ingredients: Olive oil, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce create depth of flavor. In a pinch, you can use teriyaki sauce or a vinegar-based dressing. Low-sodium soy sauce works for those watching their salt intake.
Vegetables: Zucchini and yellow squash bring freshness. Instead, you could use mushrooms or cherry tomatoes, which add a nice burst of flavor.
How Can I Make Sure My Kabobs Are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking kabobs can be tricky when it comes to getting everything just right. Here are a few tips to help you out:
- **Preheat Properly:** Ensure your grill is at medium-high heat before adding the skewers.
- **Don’t Overcrowd:** Give vegetables and proteins some room on the skewer for even cooking.
- **Monitor Cooking Time:** Shrimp cooks quickly, while steak may take a little longer. Start checking the shrimp around the 8-minute mark.
- **Let Them Rest:** Let kabobs rest post-grilling for juicy results—it allows juices to redistribute.
By following these tips, you’ll have kabobs that are bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection every time! Enjoy the grilling fun!
How to Make Grilled Steak and Shrimp Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1 lb beef steak (such as sirloin or ribeye), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 yellow squash, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- Skewers (soaked in water if using wooden skewers)
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and marinate, plus an additional 10-12 minutes to grill. Allow at least 30 minutes for marinating the steak for optimum flavor, but you can let it sit in the marinade for up to 2 hours if you have the time. Totally worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until well mixed. This flavorful marinade is going to make your steak and shrimp delicious!
2. Marinate the Steak:
Add the cubed beef steak to the marinade and toss it thoroughly to coat each piece. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, let it sit for up to 2 hours to soak up even more flavor!
3. Prepare the Shrimp:
After the steak has marinated, take it out of the fridge. Now, add the peeled and deveined shrimp into the same marinade and make sure they are coated well. This adds even more deliciousness to your kabobs!
4. Preheat Your Grill:
Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat. This ensures everything cooks evenly and gets that lovely grilled flavor.
5. Assemble the Kabobs:
Now it’s time to make your kabobs! Take the soaked skewers and start threading them with alternating pieces of steak, shrimp, bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, and red onion. Feel free to mix up the order as you like—have fun with it!
6. Grill the Kabobs:
Place the assembled skewers on the grill. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally. You want the shrimp to turn pink and opaque, while the steak reaches your desired doneness—medium rare, medium, or well done, it’s up to you!
7. Let Them Rest:
Once the kabobs are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices inside, making each bite tender and delicious.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your warm grilled steak and shrimp kabobs with your favorite side dishes!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat for These Kabobs?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute chicken, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that different meats may require different marinating times and cooking durations. Chicken usually needs about 2-3 hours of marination and takes a bit longer to cook through on the grill.
How Can I Make These Kabobs Spicy?
If you like a little heat, add some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the marinade. You can also brush the kabobs with a spicy sauce like Sriracha while grilling for an extra kick!
Can I Prep These Kabobs in Advance?
Yes, you can! Assemble the kabobs up to a day in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. Just be sure to marinate the ingredients for the recommended time before assembling the kabobs. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them as instructed before grilling.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a grill or in the oven until warmed through. You can also toss them into a stir-fry for a quick meal!
