These Cajun Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Steak Skewers are a tasty treat! Juicy steak cubes are coated in spicy Cajun seasoning and mixed with creamy garlic Parmesan. Perfect for any cookout!
Who’s hungry? I love these skewers because they cook fast in the air fryer and pack a punch of flavor. Just grab some veggies, and you’ve got a fun meal ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: Sirloin is great for skewers because it’s tender and flavorful. If you prefer a leaner option, try flank steak or chicken breast. For a richer taste, ribeye also works wonderfully!
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and richness. If you’re out of olive oil, avocado oil is a fantastic substitute due to its high smoke point and similar flavor profile.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a robust flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. For a milder taste, consider roasted garlic instead.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan brings a salty, nutty flavor. If you want a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast adds a cheesy essence. You can also substitute with Pecorino Romano for a slightly sharper taste.
Cajun Seasoning: This is key for flavor. If you don’t have it, mix paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and thyme for a homemade version. Adjust the spice level to your preference.
How Do I Ensure My Steak Skewers Are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting evenly cooked steak skewers can sometimes be tricky. Here’s how to do it right:
- **Marinade Time:** Letting the steak marinate for at least 30 minutes helps infuse flavor. You can go longer if you want it more intense!
- **Preheating:** Make sure your air fryer is preheated to 400°F (200°C) before adding the skewers. This helps achieve a nice brown crust.
- **Don’t Overcrowd:** When threading the steak on skewers, keep them snug but not cramped. This allows hot air to circulate and cook evenly.
- **Flipping:** Halfway through cooking, give the skewers a flip. This ensures they get that nice crisp all around.
- **Resting Time:** After cooking, let the skewers rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the steak tender and juicy!
How to Make Cajun Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Steak Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Skewers:
- 1 lb sirloin steak (or your preferred cut), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 10-15 minutes of preparation time and at least 30 minutes for marinating the steak. Plus, an additional 10-12 minutes to cook in the air fryer. In total, expect to spend around 50 minutes to enjoy these delicious skewers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together well to create a delicious marinade that will flavor your steak.
2. Marinate the Steak:
Add the cubed sirloin steak to the bowl with the marinade. Toss the steak pieces until they’re well coated in the mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. For even more flavor, you can let it marinate in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat and Skewer:
While the steak is marinating, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Once marinated, take your steak cubes and thread them onto the skewers. Make sure to pack the pieces closely but avoid overcrowding them for even cooking.
4. Cook the Skewers:
Place the steak skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If you have a lot of skewers, you might need to cook them in batches. Air fry the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. Keep an eye on them and take them out when they’re browned and cooked to your liking.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle. To serve, garnish with some extra chopped parsley and enjoy them hot with your favorite dipping sauce or side dish. Bon appétit!
Can I Use a Different Type of Steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin steak is a great option, you can also use ribeye, flank steak, or tenderloin. Just remember that different cuts may require slight adjustments in cooking time based on their thickness and fat content.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No problem! You can easily create a substitute by mixing together equal parts smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper to taste. This will give you a similar spicy flavor profile.
How Can I Store Leftover Steak Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes or warm them in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the steak cubes several hours or even the night before and keep them in the refrigerator. Just remember to thread the skewers and cook them fresh for the best texture and flavor.
