Grilled Steak and Shrimp Kabobs

These Grilled Steak and Shrimp Kabobs offer the ultimate surf-and-turf experience, all on a single skewer. Perfectly marinated sirloin cubes pair effortlessly with juicy, charred shrimp, while colorful veggies bring a burst of sweetness and crunch. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just craving a protein-packed dinner, these kabobs will impress every time.

They’re easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and totally customizable. Switch up the veggies based on what you have, or use your favorite marinade to change things up. With minimal prep and quick cook time, this dish is a must for warm evenings or quick family dinners. Serve with rice, grilled corn, or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into 1 ½-inch cubes

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 2 bell peppers (red and yellow), cut into chunks

• 1 red onion, cut into chunks

• 1 zucchini, sliced

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 3 tbsp soy sauce

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

2. Place steak and shrimp in a large ziplock bag or bowl. Pour marinade over them and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours).

3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

4. Thread steak, shrimp, bell peppers, onion, and zucchini onto skewers, alternating ingredients.

5. Grill kabobs for about 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until steak is cooked to desired doneness and shrimp is opaque and cooked through.

6. Remove from grill, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve immediately.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

A Flavorful Surf and Turf Experience: Grilled Steak and Shrimp Kabobs

Few meals scream summer like grilled kabobs sizzling over an open flame. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a casual weeknight dinner, or prepping for a special occasion, these Grilled Steak and Shrimp Kabobs deliver a mouthwatering experience that blends land and sea in perfect harmony. Packed with vibrant vegetables, succulent shrimp, and juicy steak bites, this dish is a colorful, flavorful, and satisfying addition to your grill-season menu.

The beauty of kabobs lies in their versatility. You can customize them endlessly based on your flavor preferences, dietary needs, or what’s in season. For this recipe, we’re focusing on a classic surf-and-turf combination, tender chunks of sirloin steak and juicy shrimp, balanced with fresh bell peppers, red onions, and zucchini for texture and color. Marinated in a simple yet flavorful garlic herb and citrus blend, these kabobs become deeply infused with a savory, slightly smoky taste that will leave your guests craving more.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

Grilled Steak and Shrimp Kabobs check all the boxes for a perfect meal. They’re quick to prepare, full of nutrients, visually appealing, and crowd-pleasing. Here are some reasons why this dish stands out:

1. High in Protein and Nutrients

Both steak and shrimp are rich sources of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. Shrimp also provides iodine, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids, while steak is packed with iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. The addition of vegetables boosts the fiber and vitamin content, making these kabobs a well-balanced choice.

2. Perfect for Grilling Season

There’s something about food cooked on a grill that enhances its flavor. The caramelization and charred edges of the kabobs provide that signature grilled taste, while the smoky undertones from an outdoor grill make this dish feel indulgent and restaurant-quality.

3. Meal Prep Friendly

You can easily prep the ingredients and marinate the steak and shrimp ahead of time. Simply keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to assemble and grill. This makes them an ideal option for entertaining, where you want to spend more time socializing and less time in the kitchen.

4. Gluten-Free and Low-Carb Option

This dish is naturally gluten-free and fits well into low-carb, paleo, and keto diets. You can serve it with a light salad or cauliflower rice to keep the carbs low or pair with a side of grilled corn or couscous for a heartier meal.

Tips for Perfect Kabobs Every Time

To take your kabob game to the next level, consider the following tips:

• Uniform cuts: Ensure all steak and vegetable pieces are roughly the same size to guarantee even cooking.

• Separate proteins: If you’re worried about overcooking the shrimp or undercooking the steak, thread them on separate skewers and manage grilling times accordingly.

• Soak wooden skewers: Always soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

• Let them rest: Once off the grill, allow the kabobs to rest for 3–5 minutes to retain juiciness before serving.

• Use metal skewers: Reusable metal skewers are sturdy, eco-friendly, and conduct heat, which helps cook your kabobs from the inside out.

Marinade Matters

The marinade is where the magic begins. This recipe uses a bold mix of olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, and smoked paprika. The oil keeps the proteins moist, while the soy sauce adds depth and umami. Lemon juice brightens the overall flavor and acts as a tenderizer for the steak and shrimp. Fresh garlic and herbs add a zesty kick, and smoked paprika gives the dish that grilled richness even before it hits the flame.

You can adjust the marinade depending on your preferences, swap soy sauce for coconut aminos for a gluten-free or paleo alternative, or add a dash of honey or brown sugar if you prefer a slightly sweeter flavor.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Steak

Sirloin is an excellent choice because it’s tender, flavorful, and holds up well on the grill. You can also use ribeye or NY strip steak for a more luxurious kabob. Avoid overly lean cuts, as they can become tough when grilled.

Shrimp

Opt for large or jumbo shrimp, these are easier to thread and less likely to overcook. Always peel and devein them before marinating for maximum flavor absorption.

Vegetables

Bell peppers, red onions, and zucchini are classic kabob choices for a reason—they cook quickly, complement the proteins well, and offer a nice variety of texture and color. Other good options include cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, pineapple, or even eggplant.

Serving Suggestions

These kabobs are incredibly versatile and can be served in many different ways:

• Over rice or grains: Serve with jasmine rice, quinoa, or couscous for a filling meal.

• Alongside a salad: A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the grilled kabobs.

• With dipping sauces: Offer garlic aioli, chimichurri, or a yogurt dill sauce for extra flavor.

• In wraps or pitas: For a handheld version, slide the grilled ingredients off the skewers and tuck them into warm pita bread with tzatziki or hummus.

Ideal for Gatherings

Kabobs are a perfect choice for cookouts and parties. They’re fun to assemble with friends and family and cook quickly on the grill, which means no one is left waiting too long for food. Plus, they look beautiful on a platter, bursting with colors from the vegetables and a golden char from the grill. You can even set up a DIY kabob station where guests can build their own skewers with a variety of ingredients.

Make It Your Own

This recipe serves as a great base, but feel free to get creative:

• Add pineapple for a tropical twist.

• Sprinkle kabobs with sesame seeds or crushed red pepper for extra flair.

• Swap in chicken or tofu for dietary preferences.

• Use Cajun seasoning or Caribbean jerk spices for different regional flavor profiles.

Conclusion

Grilled Steak and Shrimp Kabobs offer an unbeatable combination of flavors, textures, and nutritional benefits. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a group of friends, these kabobs are sure to steal the spotlight. With juicy steak, plump shrimp, and vibrant grilled vegetables, every bite feels like a celebration of summer.

This recipe is simple enough for weeknight cooking yet special enough for festive gatherings. It’s a delicious and wholesome way to bring together the best of land and sea, and once you try it, it’s bound to become a staple in your grilling rotation.