Grilled Surf and Turf Skewers are a fun dish that combines juicy steak and succulent shrimp on a stick. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner, these skewers are packed with flavor!
Every bite gives you a tasty mix of meaty and seafood goodness. I love adding colorful veggies to the skewers too, making them a feast for the eyes and the belly. 🌽🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Sirloin: This cut is flavorful and tender, perfect for skewers. If you prefer, you can swap it out with flank steak or ribeye for a different flavor and texture!
Shrimp: Large shrimp make this dish impressive, but you can use scallops or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Just make sure whatever you use is cut into similar sizes.
Olive Oil: It’s my go-to for marinating for its smooth flavor. However, if you want a different taste, avocado oil or even melted butter works beautifully too.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a rich flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even chili powder can work. Oregano is versatile, so feel free to use Italian seasoning if that’s what you have on hand.
Fresh Lemon Juice: The acidity brightens up the dish! If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice is fine, but fresh is always best when possible.
How Do I Grill Skewers Without Overcooking?
Grilling skewers can be tricky, but a few tips can help you achieve perfectly cooked beef and shrimp every time!
- For beef, aim for uniform 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Always check the doneness with a meat thermometer if you’re unsure.
- Shrimp cook quickly, so don’t leave them on the grill for too long. Keep a close eye on them once they start to turn pink; they’re usually ready in 4-6 minutes.
- Rotate your skewers regularly on the grill to avoid hotspots, ensuring even cooking all around.
- If you’re worried about overcooking, remove the skewers when slightly underdone; they’ll continue cooking off the grill for a few minutes.
How to Make Grilled Surf And Turf Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 lb beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Skewers (metal or soaked wooden skewers)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and marinating, and around 15 minutes for grilling. So, you’ll be enjoying your delicious Grilled Surf And Turf Skewers in about 30-35 minutes total. Perfect for a quick yet impressive meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Beef:
Start by gathering your beef sirloin cubes in a bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if you want some heat). Mix everything well so the beef is coated with the spices. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This will help the flavors soak into the meat.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
In another bowl, toss the shrimp with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. This simple marinade will make the shrimp so tasty! Let this marinate while the beef is resting in the fridge.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the beef and shrimp are marinating, get your grill ready! Preheat it to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand—this prevents them from burning while grilling.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Now it’s time to make the skewers! Start by threading the marinated beef cubes onto half of your skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. Then, take the other skewers and thread on the marinated shrimp. They’re going to grill beautifully!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Once your grill is hot, lay the skewers on the grill. Grill the beef skewers for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally until they’re cooked to your liking (145°F for medium-rare). For the shrimp, grill for about 4-6 minutes until they turn pink and opaque, also flipping halfway through. Watch them closely! They’ll be ready soon!
6. Serve:
After grilling, carefully remove the skewers from the grill and arrange them on a serving platter. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color! Serve these beauties right away with your favorite dipping sauce or sides. Enjoy your scrumptious Grilled Surf And Turf Skewers!
Can I Substitute the Beef Sirloin with Another Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! You can use cuts like ribeye or tenderloin for a richer flavor. If you prefer leaner options, sirloin tip or flank steak can work well, too. Just adjust the grilling time based on the thickness of the meat pieces.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Fresh Shrimp?
No worries! You can use frozen shrimp as a substitute. Just be sure to thoroughly thaw them in the refrigerator or under cold running water before marinating to ensure even cooking. This will also help retain their texture.
How Can I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through, to keep the meat tender.
Can I Add Vegetables to These Skewers?
Definitely! Vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes make great additions. Just cut them into similar sizes as your meat for even cooking. Toss them in olive oil and seasonings before adding them to the skewers!