These Grilled Steak and Shrimp Kabobs are a tasty mix of juicy beef and fresh shrimp, all grilled to perfection with colorful veggies. Perfect for a fun BBQ night!
Nothing says summer like kabobs sizzling on the grill! They’re quick to make, and who doesn’t love a meal you can eat off a stick? 😄 I can’t wait to add my favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Steak: Sirloin or ribeye works great for kabobs due to their tenderness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using flank steak or even chicken. Just remember, different meats may need different marinating times.
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen works well here. If you’re not a seafood fan, try firm tofu or chicken as a replacement, although cooking times will vary, with chicken taking longer to cook through.
Vegetables: Zucchini, red and yellow bell peppers, and red onion add nice color and flavor. Feel free to mix in bell peppers of other colors, mushrooms, or even cherry tomatoes for variety!
Marinade Ingredients: If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or even chili powder can add a nice flavor. And to replace soy sauce, try tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a sweeter touch.
How Do I Perfectly Grill Kabobs Without Overcooking?
Grilling kabobs can be tricky, but with the right technique, you can achieve flavorful results! Start by ensuring all cuts of meat and vegetables are similar in size for even cooking. Here are some steps for grilling success:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to prevent sticking.
- Make sure your kabobs aren’t too overcrowded on the grill; this helps them cook evenly.
- Turn the kabobs about every couple of minutes to ensure all sides get a nice char without burning.
- Use a meat thermometer: steak should reach around 135°F for medium-rare, while shrimp cooks just until it turns pink (typically within 4-6 minutes).
Letting the kabobs rest for a few minutes after grilling helps the juices redistribute, keeping everything tender. Enjoy your kabobs with a side salad or some rice for a complete meal!
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
- 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
For the Marinade:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to marinate. Then, you’ll need about 15-20 minutes to grill the kabobs. In total, expect to spend around 1 hour before you’re enjoying your delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This will be the tasty marinade that makes your kabobs flavorful!
2. Marinate the Steak and Shrimp:
Divide the marinade in half. Add the cubed steak to one half and the shrimp to the other half. Make sure each piece is well-coated. Let them sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (you can go up to 2 hours if you have the time) to soak up all those wonderful flavors.
3. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a separate bowl, toss the zucchini, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and red onion with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. This will add some delicious zest to your kabobs.
4. Preheat the Grill:
While your ingredients are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A hot grill is key for perfectly cooked kabobs!
5. Assemble the Kabobs:
Once everything is marinated, it’s time to put it all together! Thread the marinated cubes of steak, shrimp, and your colorful vegetables onto the skewers. Make sure to alternate the steak, shrimp, and veggies for a vibrant presentation.
6. Grill the Kabobs:
Carefully place the kabobs on the hot grill. Grill the steak kabobs for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they reach your desired level of doneness. Grill the shrimp kabobs for about 4-6 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Keep a close eye on them so they don’t overcook!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once grilled to perfection, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a nice touch. Enjoy your delicious grilled steak and shrimp kabobs!
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and even asparagus work great. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking!
How to Ensure My Shrimp Don’t Overcook?
To prevent overcooking, keep a close eye on the shrimp while grilling. They usually take about 4-6 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. If you have larger shrimp, you may need to cook them for an extra minute or two. If they’re cooked perfectly, they should have a firm texture and a slightly translucent center.
Can I Marinate the Kabobs Overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight actually enhances the flavor! Just make sure to store the steak and shrimp separately in the refrigerator, especially if using a strong marinade. You can also prep the vegetables in advance to save time.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, just until warmed through—be careful not to overheat, as it can dry them out!
