These Cajun Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Steak Skewers are a must-try! Juicy steak pieces are seasoned with spicy Cajun flavors and topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan. What’s not to love?
I always make extra because they disappear fast—everyone loves their mouthwatering taste! Perfect for dipping or on their own, these skewers are great for a quick dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Steak: Sirloin or flank steak is great for skewers because they’re tender. If you prefer a different meat, chicken breast or shrimp can work well. For a vegetarian option, try marinated mushrooms or firm tofu.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but start with less since it’s more concentrated. I love using roasted garlic for a sweeter taste!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a cheesy, salty kick. Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast make nice alternatives, especially for a vegan option. Just remember, these may alter the flavor slightly.
Cajun Seasoning: This seasoning is a blend of spices, perfect for a spicy kick. If you don’t have it, you can mix paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and oregano for a similar taste. Adjust to your heat preference!
How Do You Get the Steak Perfectly Tender and Flavorful?
The trick to juicy and delicious steak skewers lies in the marinating process. It’s essential for tenderizing the meat and infusing flavor. Follow these tips:
- Combine all your marinade ingredients in a large bowl.
- Let the steak marinate for at least 30 minutes. For intensified flavor, refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
- Don’t forget to coat the meat evenly so every cube gets that fantastic flavor.
Also, ensure your air fryer is preheated. This helps the steak cook quickly, locking in juices and flavor while giving that nice outer crust you’re after.
Delicious Cajun Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Steak Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Skewers:
- 1 lb beef steak (like sirloin or flank steak), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to cook in the air fryer. If you marinate the steak for 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge), the flavors will be even better. So total, you might think about an hour if you include marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, start by soaking them in water for 20-30 minutes. This helps prevent them from burning while they’re in the air fryer. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip this step!
2. Marinate the Steak:
Grab a large bowl and add the cubed steak. Then, toss in the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything well to coat the steak pieces evenly. For the most flavor, let this marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or pop it into the fridge for up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Set your air fryer to preheat at 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures your skewers cook evenly and get that perfect crisp.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Take those marinated steak cubes and thread them onto the skewers, leaving a little bit of space between each piece. This space helps them cook properly!
5. Cook the Skewers:
Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook them at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they’re evenly cooked. If you want to be precise, you can use a meat thermometer; for medium-rare, aim for about 135°F.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once your skewers are done cooking, carefully take them out and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color!
7. Enjoy:
Your Cajun Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Steak Skewers are ready to dig into! Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or sides, like a fresh salad or roasted veggies. Enjoy every bite of your tasty skewers!
Can I Use Chicken Instead of Beef in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken breast or thighs for the beef. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as chicken will typically need about 12-15 minutes in the air fryer, depending on the size of the pieces. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
How Can I Avoid the Skewers Burning?
If you’re using wooden skewers, soaking them in water for 20-30 minutes before assembly is key! This helps prevent burning during cooking. If using metal skewers, no prep is needed, but keep an eye out for hot handles.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
Not a problem! You can make your own Cajun seasoning by mixing equal parts paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust the spices to your taste for a flavorful alternative.
Can I Prep the Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the steak earlier in the day or even the night before. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, thread the marinated steak onto the skewers and proceed with the recipe as usual!
