Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer – The Ultimate Guide to a Fast, Flavor-Packed Surf and Turf Meal

When you’re craving a restaurant-quality surf-and-turf dinner but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer are the perfect solution. Juicy steak, tender shrimp, bold seasoning, and quick cooking time come together in one simple, satisfying recipe that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy.

This in-depth guide will walk you through everything you need to know about making Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer, from selecting the best ingredients and mastering seasoning to cooking techniques, variations, meal prep ideas, storage tips, and serving suggestions. By the end, you’ll have a foolproof method for creating perfectly cooked kabobs every single time.

---

Why Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer Are a Game-Changer

Air fryers have transformed the way we cook. They offer the speed of a microwave with the results of an oven or grill. For kabobs, this means:

• Faster cooking than traditional grilling

• Even heat circulation for consistent doneness

• Minimal cleanup

• No need to fire up an outdoor grill

• Juicy interiors with beautifully seared exteriors

Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer combine two protein powerhouses into one dish, making them ideal for busy weeknights, special occasions, or casual entertaining.

---

What Makes This Recipe Special

There are countless kabob recipes out there, but this one stands out for several reasons:

• Uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients

• Requires minimal prep

• Cooks in under 10 minutes

• Highly customizable with marinades and vegetables

• Naturally low-carb and keto-friendly

Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer deserve a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

---

Recipe Overview

Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes

---

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless sirloin steak

• 1 pound raw jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 tablespoons steak seasoning

Optional Add-Ins:

• Bell peppers

• Red onion

• Zucchini

• Cherry tomatoes

---

Tools Needed

• Chef knife

• Cutting board

• Large bowl

• Bamboo or metal skewers

• Air fryer

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Steak and Shrimp

Pat the steak dry with paper towels and cut into uniform 1-inch cubes. Pat the shrimp dry as well. Removing excess moisture helps achieve better browning.

2. Season

In a large bowl, combine steak, shrimp, olive oil, and steak seasoning. Toss until everything is evenly coated.

3. Assemble the Kabobs

Thread steak and shrimp onto skewers, alternating pieces if desired. If adding vegetables, place them between protein pieces for even cooking.

4. Air Fry

Arrange kabobs in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Cook at 400°F (205°C) for 3 minutes, flip, then cook an additional 3–5 minutes until shrimp are opaque and steak reaches your preferred doneness.

5. Serve

Serve immediately with rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.

---

Choosing the Best Steak for Kabobs

For Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer, tender cuts work best:

• Sirloin

• Ribeye

• Strip steak

• Tenderloin

Avoid tough cuts like chuck or round unless they are marinated extensively.

---

Best Shrimp Size for Kabobs

Jumbo or extra-large shrimp are ideal. Smaller shrimp cook too quickly and may overcook before the steak is done.

---

Seasoning Options

While steak seasoning is simple and effective, you can customize your flavor profile:

Garlic Herb

• Garlic powder

• Onion powder

• Dried oregano

• Dried thyme

Cajun

• Paprika

• Cayenne

• Garlic powder

• Onion powder

• Black pepper

Lemon Pepper

• Lemon zest

• Black pepper

• Garlic powder

• Salt

Each variation gives Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer a completely different personality.

---

Marinade Ideas

Marinating adds even more depth of flavor. Try these combinations:

Teriyaki

Soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger

Chimichurri

Parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil

Honey Garlic

Honey, soy sauce, garlic, olive oil

Marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours for best results.

---

Tips for Perfect Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer

• Soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes

• Cut steak and vegetables into equal-sized pieces

• Avoid overcrowding the basket

• Use an instant-read thermometer

Steak Doneness Guide:

• Rare: 120–125°F

• Medium-rare: 130–135°F

• Medium: 140–145°F

• Well-done: 160°F

---

Why Air Frying Works So Well for Kabobs

Air fryers use rapid hot air circulation, which:

• Creates a seared exterior

• Locks in moisture

• Cooks evenly from all sides

This makes Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer consistently juicy and flavorful.

---

Healthy Benefits

• High in protein

• Low in carbs

• Rich in omega-3s from shrimp

• Iron and B vitamins from steak

A balanced, nutrient-dense meal.

---

Serving Suggestions

Pair Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer with:

• Garlic butter rice

• Quinoa

• Roasted potatoes

• Grilled vegetables

• Caesar salad

---

Sauce Ideas

• Garlic butter

• Chimichurri

• Spicy mayo

• Tzatziki

• Steakhouse peppercorn sauce

---

Making It a Complete Meal

Add a starch, a veggie side, and a sauce to turn your kabobs into a restaurant-worthy dinner.

---

Meal Prep and Storage

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes or microwave gently.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking shrimp

• Using uneven sizes

• Skipping preheating

• Overcrowding

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw completely and pat dry.

Can I make these ahead?

Yes, assemble skewers and refrigerate up to 24 hours.

Can I cook without skewers?

Yes, place pieces directly in basket.

Print

Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)

Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 45 g
Fat: 22 g
Carbohydrates: 2 g
Sodium: 480 mg

---

Why You’ll Love Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer

They’re quick, customizable, and impressive. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

---

Final Thoughts

Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer prove that you don’t need complicated techniques or expensive equipment to create a memorable meal. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes, you can enjoy tender steak, succulent shrimp, and bold flavors that rival your favorite steakhouse.

If you’re looking for a fast, reliable, and crowd-pleasing recipe, these kabobs deserve a spot at the top of your list. Once you try them, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again.