These Cajun garlic parmesan steak skewers are a tasty treat! The juicy steak is seasoned with zingy Cajun spices and topped with cheesy parmesan for a burst of flavor in every bite.
Making these skewers is a breeze! Just thread the steak onto skewers, season them up, and pop them in the air fryer. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time, perfect for sharing (or not!).
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Flank and sirloin are great choices for skewers due to their tenderness. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, try chuck steak. For a leaner option, consider chicken breast or shrimp, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
Olive Oil: This helps add moisture and flavor. If you’re out of olive oil, grapeseed or avocado oil can work nicely without changing the taste too much. I’ve found avocado oil gives a nice flavor too!
Cajun Seasoning: It’s essential for that signature kick. If you’re sensitive to spice, consider using Italian seasoning or simply black pepper with a pinch of cayenne. You can also make your own blend with paprika, garlic powder, and oregano.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-grated. If you’re not a fan, try pecorino romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Ensure My Steak Skewers Cook Evenly?
It’s important to cook the skewers evenly so every bite is juicy and tender. Here’s how to do it:
- Cut the steak into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning in the air fryer.
- Preheat your air fryer for a few minutes; this helps kickstart the cooking process.
- Flip the skewers halfway through cooking for even browning on all sides.
Following these steps will help you achieve deliciously cooked steak skewers every time!
How to Make Cajun Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Steak Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 pound flank steak or sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation plus a minimum of 30 minutes for marinating. Cooking in the air fryer will take approximately 8-10 minutes. Overall, set aside about 50 minutes to enjoy these delicious skewers, plus longer if you let them marinate for more flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a medium bowl. Pour in the olive oil and add the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Use a whisk or a fork to mix everything together until it’s well blended. This marinade will add tons of flavor to the steak!
2. Marinate the Steak:
Take your cubed steak and add it to the marinade. Toss the cubes around in the bowl so they’re all coated nicely. Once they’re covered in the marinade, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. For even better taste, consider marinating it in the fridge for up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
While your steak is marinating, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This should take about 5 minutes. Preheating helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior on your skewers!
4. Assemble Skewers:
Once your steak is done marinating, it’s time to make your skewers. Take the soaked wooden skewers and thread the steak cubes onto them, leaving a little space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly in the air fryer.
5. Air Fry the Skewers:
Now, place the skewers in your air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook them at 400°F (200°C) for about 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times may vary based on how thick your steak cubes are and your specific air fryer model.
6. Add Parmesan:
In the last 1-2 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the skewers. This will melt and get slightly golden, adding a delicious cheesy goodness to your skewers. Yum!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooking is done, carefully take the skewers out of the air fryer. Sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh finish, and then serve them immediately. Enjoy your savory Cajun Garlic Parmesan Steak Skewers with friends or family!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! While flank steak and sirloin work great, you can also use ribeye or tenderloin for a more tender option. Just remember that cooking times may vary based on the thickness and fat content of the steak you choose.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No problem! You can easily make a substitute by mixing 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of dried oregano or thyme. Adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne based on your preference.
How to Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer or oven at a low temperature until warmed throughout to keep them tender.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can marinate the steak cubes in advance, ideally up to 2 hours before cooking. If you’re prepping for a gathering, you can thread the skewers and refrigerate them until ready to air fry—just let them come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before cooking for even results.
