How do I make sure shrimp and steak kabobs cook evenly on the grill?

To cook shrimp and steak kabobs evenly, thread the shrimp and steak on separate skewers since shrimp cooks faster than steak. Grill the steak skewers longer until they reach your desired doneness, while cooking the shrimp skewers just until they turn opaque and pink—usually 2-3 minutes per side. You can also use a meat thermometer to check steak temperature (135°F for medium-rare). For vegetables, place them on a separate skewer and grill until tender. This method prevents overcooking and keeps every ingredient juicy and flavorful.

What types of steak are best for making shrimp and steak kabobs?

The best steaks for kabobs are those that stay tender and cook well on the grill, such as top sirloin, ribeye, strip steak, flat iron, or filet mignon. Cut the steak into 1 to 1.5-inch cubes to ensure they cook evenly with the shrimp. Avoid very fatty or tough cuts, which don’t grill evenly on skewers. Marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes to add flavor and improve tenderness before threading onto skewers with your shrimp.

How should I prepare shrimp before grilling on kabobs?

Peel and devein the shrimp before grilling to remove the shell and the dark vein along the back, which can carry grit. Keep the tails on if desired for easier handling and presentation. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry to help marinades stick better. Use larger shrimp (16-20 count per pound) for grilling since they hold up well and stay juicy. Marinating shrimp for 15-30 minutes with flavors like garlic, lemon, or herbs enhances their taste.

What sides pair well with grilled steak and shrimp kabobs?

Popular side dishes for steak and shrimp kabobs include grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, which can be cooked alongside the kabobs. Rice pilaf or seasoned quinoa works well to soak up marinades. Roasted potatoes or a fresh green salad add balance and texture. For a lighter option, consider a cucumber and tomato salad or crusty bread to round out the meal.

Can I add spicy flavors to my grilled steak and shrimp kabobs, and how?

Yes, adding spice is easy and adds great flavor. Mix red pepper flakes or cayenne into your marinade, or brush on a spicy garlic butter after grilling. Marinate the steak and shrimp with hot sauce like Sriracha or chipotle for a smoky kick. You can also thread slices of jalapeño or poblano peppers between the steak and shrimp on the skewers to add heat during grilling without overpowering the other flavors.

Grilled Steak Shrimp Kabobs With Garlic Butter Recipe

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound (about 450g) top sirloin or other grilling steak, cut into 1 to 1.5-inch chunks
1 pound (about 450g) large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and shells removed (tails optional)
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Garlic Butter Mixture:
6 tablespoons salted butter, melted (if unsalted, add ½ teaspoon salt)
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
2 teaspoons minced garlic
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Zest of one small lemon
1 teaspoon dried Italian herb blend or Herbs de Provence
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Marinade Ingredients:
1/3 cup vegetable oil
½ cup soy sauce
¼ cup lemon juice
¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
¼ cup mustard
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ teaspoons black pepper

Vegetables (optional):
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or other vegetables as desired

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Instructions

1. Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, parsley, minced garlic, garlic powder, lemon zest, dried herbs, and black pepper. Stir well and set aside.

2. Marinate (optional): Prepare the optional marinade by mixing vegetable oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, minced garlic, and black pepper. Toss steak, shrimp, and vegetables in marinade and refrigerate for 4 to 24 hours.

3. Preheat Grill: Heat grill to medium or medium-high heat; clean and oil the grill grates.

4. Assemble Kabobs: Thread steak chunks and shrimp alternately onto skewers. If using vegetables, alternate them with the steak and shrimp for balanced grilling. Use metal or soaked wooden skewers to prevent burning.

5. Grill Kabobs: Place skewers on the grill. Grill kabobs, turning every few minutes for even cooking. Shrimp should turn pink and opaque without translucency, and steak should reach desired doneness (approximately 10 minutes for medium).

6. Finish with Garlic Butter: Brush cooked kabobs generously with the garlic butter mixture before serving for added richness and flavor.

Last Step:

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Notes

🍤 Use larger shrimp varieties to minimize shrinkage on the grill.
🔥 Marinate kabobs for richer flavor, allowing up to 24 hours if time permits.
🍢 Turn shrimp frequently during grilling to avoid overcooking.

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 15 to 20 minutes
Marinating time (optional): 4 to 24 hours
Cook Time: 10 to 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten-Free

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 kabob
Calories: 300
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 1100mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 200mg