Grilled Steak and Shrimp Kabobs are a fun and tasty meal! Juicy chunks of steak and succulent shrimp are skewered with colorful veggies, making them as pretty as they are delicious.
These kabobs are perfect for summer BBQs or a quick weeknight dinner. I love how easy they are to whip up—just grill, eat, and enjoy the juicy goodness! Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Steak: Sirloin or ribeye works best for kabobs. They stay tender when grilled. If you prefer a leaner option, you could use flank steak or chicken breast instead!
Shrimp: Large shrimp are preferable for these kabobs. If shrimp isn’t available, scallops make a nice alternative, or you can skip the seafood completely if you prefer just steak and veggies!
Vegetables: Zucchini and bell pepper add great color and flavor. Try other veggies like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or asparagus for variety. Just remember to keep them similar in size for even cooking.
Olive Oil: This is essential for the marinade. You can substitute it with avocado oil or even melted butter for a different flavor profile.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a nice smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or a bit of cumin can provide a nice kick. Garlic and onion powders are flexible; fresh versions can be used but adjust to taste!
How Do I Marinate the Steak Properly?
Marinating steak is all about letting that flavor soak in! Here’s a simple guide:
- In a large bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the cubed steak, make sure it’s coated evenly by tossing well.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or if you have time, let it marinate for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
The acid in other potential marinades, like lemon juice or vinegar, works well too. Just avoid marinating too long to prevent toughening the meat!
How to Make Grilled Steak and Shrimp Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1 lb beef steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (large size preferred)
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), cut into squares
- 1 medium onion, cut into squares
For the Marinade:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating. In total, expect around 1 hour. The grill time is approximately 8-10 minutes for the steak and 3-4 minutes for the shrimp. Ready to impress your taste buds!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Steak:
Add the cubed steak to the marinade and toss it around until all the pieces are well coated. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for even more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the steak is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will help achieve that perfect grill mark and flavor on your kabobs.
4. Prepare the Shrimp:
In another bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with a drizzle of olive oil, some garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set the shrimp aside to soak up those lovely flavors.
5. Assemble the Kabobs:
Take the marinated steak and alternate threading it onto skewers with the zucchini, bell pepper, onion, and shrimp. Make it colorful and fun!
6. Grill the Kabobs:
Place the skewers on the hot grill. Grill the steak kabobs for about 8-10 minutes to reach medium-rare, turning them occasionally. Keep an eye on the shrimp as they will cook faster, typically in about 3-4 minutes, and turn them until they’re pink and opaque.
7. Rest and Garnish:
Once grilled to perfection, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley to add a burst of color and flavor.
8. Serve:
Serve the grilled steak and shrimp kabobs hot, paired with your favorite dipping sauces or sides, like rice, salad, or grilled veggies. Enjoy the deliciousness with friends and family!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in the Kabobs?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or asparagus. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so cut vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.
Can I Marinate the Steak Overnight?
Yes, marinating the steak overnight is a great way to enhance the flavor! Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as the acidity can start to affect the texture of the meat.
How to Store Leftover Kabobs?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the grill or in the oven at a low temperature to maintain moisture.
Can I Make These Kabobs in the Oven?
Definitely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the kabobs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until cooked to your liking.
