Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer: The Ultimate Guide to a Perfect Surf-and-Turf Meal

When it comes to quick, flavorful, and impressive meals, few dishes can compete with Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer. This surf-and-turf classic combines juicy, tender steak with succulent shrimp, all cooked to perfection in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family, hosting friends, or simply craving a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe delivers outstanding results with minimal effort.

Air fryers have transformed home cooking by making it easier to enjoy bold flavors without the hassle of grills, stovetops, or ovens. Steak and shrimp kabobs are especially well-suited to the air fryer because they cook evenly, develop a beautiful exterior, and remain moist and tender inside. Best of all, this dish requires only a handful of ingredients, simple preparation, and less than 20 minutes from start to finish.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about making Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer, including tips for selecting the best ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, variations, serving ideas, storage tips, and expert-level insights to ensure flawless results every time.

Why Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer Are So Popular

The popularity of Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer continues to grow, and for good reason. This dish perfectly balances convenience, flavor, and presentation.

Convenience Meets Gourmet Flavor

Air fryers drastically reduce cooking time while maintaining high-quality results. Instead of firing up a grill or managing multiple pans, you can cook everything in one basket. The result is a beautifully cooked surf-and-turf dish with almost no cleanup.

Perfect for Busy Weeknights and Special Occasions

Despite its upscale appearance, this recipe is incredibly simple. The short prep and cook times make it ideal for busy weeknights, yet the flavor and presentation are impressive enough for entertaining guests.

Healthier Cooking Method

Air frying uses little to no added oil compared to pan-frying or grilling. This allows the natural flavors of the steak and shrimp to shine while keeping the meal lighter and more balanced.

What Makes Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer So Special?

The magic of Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer lies in the contrast of textures and flavors. Steak brings richness and depth, while shrimp adds a sweet, delicate bite. Cooking them together on skewers allows the flavors to complement each other beautifully.

Even Cooking

The circulating hot air inside the air fryer ensures that each piece cooks evenly on all sides. When turned halfway through, both the steak and shrimp develop a lightly crisp exterior while remaining juicy inside.

Bold, Concentrated Flavor

Air frying locks in moisture while intensifying seasoning flavors. Steak seasoning adheres perfectly to the meat and shrimp, creating a savory crust without overpowering the natural taste of the proteins.

Time & Servings

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

One of the biggest advantages of Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer is the speed. In under 20 minutes, you can have a complete surf-and-turf meal ready to serve.

Ingredients for Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer

Keeping the ingredient list simple allows the flavors of the steak and shrimp to shine.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless sirloin steak

• 1 pound raw jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 tablespoons steak seasoning

Ingredient Tips

Steak:
Boneless sirloin is ideal for kabobs because it is tender, flavorful, and cooks quickly. You can also use ribeye or New York strip if desired.

Shrimp:
Jumbo shrimp work best because they cook at a similar rate as the steak pieces. Smaller shrimp may overcook before the steak is done.

Seasoning:
A good steak seasoning provides salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs in one step. You can also customize your seasoning blend for different flavor profiles.

Tools Needed

• Chef’s knife

• Cutting board

• Large bowl

• Bamboo kebab skewers

• Air fryer

Using the right tools ensures efficiency and safety during preparation.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer

Step 1: Prepare the Steak and Shrimp

Pat the steak dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for proper browning. Cut the steak into uniform 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking.

Pat the shrimp dry as well. Removing excess moisture helps the shrimp cook evenly and prevents steaming.

Step 2: Season the Ingredients

Place the steak and shrimp into a large bowl. Add the olive oil and steak seasoning. Toss until everything is evenly coated. Make sure each piece is well-seasoned for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Kabobs

Thread the steak and shrimp onto the skewers, alternating pieces if desired. This not only looks appealing but also allows the flavors to mingle during cooking.

Step 4: Air Fry the Kabobs

Place the kabobs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding, as this can affect air circulation.

Cook at 400°F (205°C) for 3 minutes per side, turning once halfway through. The shrimp should be opaque and firm, and the steak should reach your preferred level of doneness.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the kabobs from the air fryer and serve immediately. Let the steak rest briefly before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Tips for Best Results

Making perfect Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer is easy when you follow these expert tips:

• Soak bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.

• Cut steak pieces evenly so they cook at the same rate as the shrimp.

• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed.

• Check doneness early, as air fryer models can vary.

• Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for extra flavor and color.

Customizing Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer to suit your preferences.

Flavor Variations

• Garlic Butter: Brush the kabobs with melted garlic butter after cooking.

• Spicy Cajun: Use Cajun seasoning for a bold, spicy kick.

• Asian-Inspired: Add soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil to the marinade.

• Herb and Lemon: Finish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Vegetable Add-Ins

Adding vegetables not only boosts nutrition but also enhances presentation. Popular options include:

• Bell peppers

• Red onions

• Cherry tomatoes

• Mushrooms

• Zucchini

Serving Suggestions

Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer pair beautifully with a wide range of sides.

Side Dish Ideas

• Garlic mashed potatoes

• Steamed rice or quinoa

• Fresh garden salad

• Roasted vegetables

• Crusty bread

Sauces and Dips

• Garlic aioli

• Chimichurri

• Cocktail sauce

• Lemon butter sauce

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Tips

Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer: The Ultimate Guide to a Perfect Surf-and-Turf Meal

Print Recipe

These Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer are a quick and flavorful surf-and-turf meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Juicy steak bites and buttery shrimp cook evenly in the air fryer, giving you a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort and cleanup.

• Author: salah

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound boneless sirloin steak

• 1 pound raw jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 tablespoons steak seasoning

Instructions

• Pat the steak dry with paper towels and cut it into 1-inch pieces. Pat the shrimp dry as well.

• In a large bowl, combine the steak, shrimp, and olive oil. Toss until evenly coated.

• Thread the steak and shrimp onto the skewers, alternating pieces if desired.

• Place the kabobs in the air fryer basket in a single layer.

• Cook at 400°F (205°C) for 3 minutes per side, turning once, until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through and the steak reaches your preferred doneness.

• Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

• Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.

• Cut steak evenly so it cooks at the same rate as the shrimp.

• Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket—cook in batches if necessary.

• Check doneness early, as air fryers can vary in cooking speed.

• Add vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the skewers for extra color and flavor.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450

• Total Fat: 22 g

• Saturated Fat: 7 g

• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g

• Cholesterol: 344 mg

• Sodium: 680 mg

This dish offers a satisfying balance of protein and flavor while fitting well into a variety of eating styles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even a simple recipe like Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer can go wrong if you’re not careful.

• Overcooking the shrimp, which makes them tough

• Using steak pieces that are too large or uneven

• Skipping the step of drying the ingredients

• Overcrowding the air fryer basket

Avoiding these mistakes ensures consistently excellent results.

Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer

Once you try Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer, it’s hard not to make them part of your regular rotation. The recipe is fast, flexible, and delivers bold, satisfying flavors every time.

From casual family dinners to elegant entertaining, this dish adapts effortlessly to any occasion. The air fryer simplifies the cooking process while maintaining the quality you’d expect from a high-end restaurant meal.

Final Thoughts

Steak and Shrimp Kabobs in the Air Fryer are the perfect example of how modern cooking tools can elevate classic dishes. With minimal ingredients, quick preparation, and outstanding results, this recipe proves that you don’t need complicated techniques to create something truly special.

The combination of tender steak and juicy shrimp, cooked evenly in the air fryer, delivers a surf-and-turf experience that feels indulgent yet approachable. Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a must-try that you’ll come back to again and again.