The ultimate backyard treat, these Grilled Steak and Shrimp Kabobs deliver all the sizzling, smoky flavor of summer in one delicious skewer. Juicy sirloin and succulent shrimp soak up a bold, zesty marinade before being flame-kissed on the grill with crisp bell peppers, tender onion, and fresh zucchini. Each bite is a harmonious blend of texture and taste.
These kabobs are not only visually stunning but also incredibly versatile. Serve them as a main course for your next cookout, or pair them with rice, couscous, or a fresh garden salad for a vibrant meal. Easy to prep and quick to cook, they’re a total win whether you’re grilling for guests or enjoying a weeknight dinner al fresco.
Full Recipe:
For the Marinade:
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1/4 cup olive oil
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3 tablespoons soy sauce
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2 tablespoons lemon juice
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2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Kabobs:
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1 lb sirloin steak, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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1 red bell pepper, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
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1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
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1 red onion, cut into wedges
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1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
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Skewers (metal or soaked wooden skewers)
Directions:
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In a medium bowl, whisk together all marinade ingredients until well combined.
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Add the steak cubes to a resealable bag and pour in half the marinade. Seal and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
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In a separate bowl, toss the shrimp with the remaining marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes.
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Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
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Thread steak, shrimp, and vegetables alternately onto skewers, leaving small spaces between each.
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Lightly oil the grill grates. Grill kabobs for 3-4 minutes per side until steak is done to preference and shrimp are pink and opaque.
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Let kabobs rest for a few minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: Approx. 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 4
A Flavor-Packed Surf and Turf Classic
Grilled Steak and Shrimp Kabobs bring together the best of both land and sea in a bold, colorful, and flavor-packed dish. The combination of tender, juicy steak and succulent, marinated shrimp is already mouthwatering—but when paired with vibrant grilled vegetables and kissed by flame, it becomes something extraordinary. This dish is an absolute star at cookouts, backyard gatherings, and family meals, offering both visual appeal and exceptional taste.
Surf and turf may traditionally conjure images of upscale restaurant plates, but this kabob version transforms that elegance into a casual, approachable format perfect for weeknight grilling or weekend parties. It’s a dish that pleases every palate, from seafood lovers to beef enthusiasts, and even picky eaters who appreciate familiar flavors cooked to perfection.
Why Grilled Kabobs Are a Summer Staple
Kabobs are more than just a fun and easy grilling idea—they’re a clever way to bring a full meal together on one stick. This means less cleanup, faster prep, and an ideal format for mixing proteins with vegetables and marinades that soak deeply into every component. With Grilled Steak and Shrimp Kabobs, each bite delivers a combination of charred, juicy beef, plump shrimp with a hint of citrus and spice, and smoky, slightly crisp vegetables.
The nature of kabobs makes them a wonderful canvas for culinary creativity. You can easily swap out vegetables, try different marinades, or even substitute the protein. Yet despite their flexibility, this surf and turf version remains a standout for its luxurious taste, balance, and crowd-pleasing appeal.
The Marinade: The Secret to Big Flavor
The marinade is the unsung hero of this dish. A perfect balance of soy sauce, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and smoky spices adds rich umami, bright acidity, and a touch of sweetness. It elevates the steak to new levels of tenderness while enhancing the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
One of the smartest steps in this recipe is marinating the steak and shrimp separately. Steak benefits from a longer marination time to break down tougher fibers, while shrimp, more delicate by nature, only needs a short soak to absorb flavor without turning mushy. This separation respects the integrity of each protein and ensures the ideal texture in every bite.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
Quality ingredients are the cornerstone of any great grilled dish. For the steak, a well-marbled cut like sirloin offers just the right amount of fat for juicy grilling without being too greasy. Large shrimp hold up best to the grill, maintaining their shape and texture through high heat.
Fresh, crisp vegetables not only add a pop of color but also contribute to the flavor spectrum with natural sweetness and slight bitterness when charred. Bell peppers, red onion, and zucchini are classic choices that provide great contrast in both texture and flavor to the meaty elements of the dish.
Using skewers—whether bamboo or metal—allows for uniform cooking and easy handling on the grill. If opting for wooden skewers, remember to soak them first to avoid burning. This small step helps maintain the presentation and prevents unpleasant surprises mid-cook.
Grilling Tips for Perfect Kabobs
Perfect kabobs require more than just tossing ingredients on the grill. Even cooking and perfect char lines come from some attention to detail:
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Preheat the grill properly. Medium-high heat is ideal for this dish, ensuring a good sear without overcooking the shrimp.
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Oil the grill grates. This prevents sticking and preserves the integrity of delicate ingredients like shrimp and zucchini.
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Don’t overcrowd the skewers. Leaving small gaps between ingredients allows heat to circulate and promotes even cooking.
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Rotate regularly. To achieve even caramelization and a consistent char, turn the skewers every few minutes.
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Rest before serving. Like all grilled proteins, these kabobs benefit from a few minutes of rest after cooking to allow juices to redistribute.
Serving Suggestions
Steak and shrimp kabobs are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Serve them with a light, herby couscous, a chilled pasta salad, or grilled corn on the cob. You could also place the kabobs atop a fresh green salad for a lower-carb option or wrap them in flatbread with a drizzle of tzatziki or chimichurri sauce for a handheld delight.
To create a cohesive summer meal, consider matching the flavor profile of the kabobs with similarly vibrant side dishes: think citrus-infused quinoa, garlic roasted potatoes, or a mango salsa. Add a crisp white wine or a sparkling citrus mocktail to tie everything together for the ultimate al fresco dining experience.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
These kabobs can be prepped ahead of time to make entertaining stress-free. Simply assemble the skewers a few hours in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to grill. Just be careful not to over-marinate the shrimp.
Leftovers store well in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can reheat them gently in a skillet or oven, or enjoy them cold over a salad. The flavors continue to develop, making this a fantastic dish to enjoy even after the main event.
Variations to Try
One of the best things about kabobs is their customizability. Want to turn up the heat? Add a dash of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the marinade. Prefer chicken to steak? Swap it in. Looking for a tropical twist? Add pineapple chunks between the proteins for a sweet counterpoint.
You can even go full pescatarian by doubling the shrimp and eliminating the beef, or try tofu for a vegetarian option that still grills beautifully. Play with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to give the dish a new aromatic dimension. No matter the tweak, the base of this dish is sturdy enough to handle your culinary creativity.
Health Benefits
While indulgent in flavor, Grilled Steak and Shrimp Kabobs are surprisingly balanced nutritionally. The lean protein from shrimp and steak offers muscle-building amino acids, while the grilled vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. When served with a moderate-carb side or on a bed of greens, this dish becomes a nutrient-dense meal that satisfies without overloading on calories.
Additionally, the use of olive oil and lemon juice in the marinade adds heart-healthy fats and natural acidity, supporting digestion and enhancing the bioavailability of certain nutrients.
Conclusion
Grilled Steak and Shrimp Kabobs are a celebration of bold flavors, beautiful colors, and easy outdoor cooking. They capture everything we love about grilling—sizzle, smoke, and that unbeatable taste of food cooked over open flame. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, cooking for family, or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this dish delivers every time.
Its surf and turf nature feels indulgent, yet the prep is refreshingly straightforward. With endless variations, healthful ingredients, and an irresistible flavor combo, it’s no wonder these kabobs have become a grilling go-to.
Add them to your summer menu rotation, and you’ll quickly find they’re more than just a seasonal favorite—they’re a year-round staple for flavor lovers everywhere.