These Grilled Surf And Turf Skewers are a fun mix of juicy steak and tasty shrimp, all cooked to perfection on a skewer! Perfect for summer barbecues or a cozy dinner.
I love how easy it is to swap out ingredients based on what I have. And let’s be real, who doesn’t enjoy a meal that can be eaten off a stick? It’s like eating at a fancy food truck! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Steak: Sirloin or ribeye works great for these skewers. If you want a leaner option, consider using tenderloin. Alternatively, for a budget-friendly choice, flank steak is a good substitute.
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal, but you can swap them for scallops or even chicken if you prefer. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time as chicken will take longer to cook through.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds flavor, but you can use vegetable or canola oil if that’s what you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavored oils, like garlic or herb-infused.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best taste, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch. Use about a teaspoon of powder for the equivalent strength.
Smoked Paprika: This ingredient adds a wonderful smokiness, but if you don’t have it, regular paprika mixed with a bit of cumin can work too.
How Do I Make Sure My Skewers Don’t Burn on the Grill?
Preventing your skewers from burning, particularly wooden ones, is essential. Here’s how to do it right:
- First, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This creates a barrier against the heat.
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high—not too hot to prevent charring but hot enough to cook the meat quickly.
- Place the skewers at an angle on the grill to better get those nice grill marks while also keeping them from direct flames.
- Keep an eye on them! Rotate the skewers every couple of minutes to ensure even cooking and reduce the chance of burning.
How to Make Grilled Surf And Turf Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 lb beef steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into cubes
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of active prep time and an additional hour to marinate the beef (or overnight for a richer flavor). You will also need about 10-15 minutes for grilling. In total, you can expect to spend around 1.5 hours to enjoy these delicious skewers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Beef:
In a large bowl, blend the olive oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the beef cubes to the marinade, making sure each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. If you have the time, letting it marinate overnight will deepen the flavor!
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
In another bowl, drizzle the shrimp with a little olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the shrimp are evenly coated. Set the bowl aside to let the shrimp marinate for about 15-20 minutes while you get the grill ready.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Fire up your grill and set it to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to keep them from burning on the grill!
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Now it’s time to get assembling! Carefully thread the marinated beef cubes onto the skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each cube for even cooking. Then, take separate skewers and thread the shrimp onto them, ensuring they are spaced out as well.
5. Grill:
Place the beef skewers on the grill first. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally until they reach your desired doneness (medium-rare to medium is great!). After about 4-5 minutes, add the shrimp skewers to the grill. Grill the shrimp until they turn opaque and have a nice char, which should take around 4-5 minutes.
6. Serve:
Once everything is grilled to perfection, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve the grilled surf and turf skewers on a platter, and feel free to garnish with some fresh herbs or lemon wedges for an extra touch. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Substitute the Beef with Chicken or Pork?
Absolutely! Chicken or pork can make great substitutes for beef in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time: chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F, while pork can be cooked to 145°F. Marinate as directed, and keep an eye on the skewers for even cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Skewers?
No problem! You can grill the marinated beef and shrimp directly on the grill grates or use a grill basket. Just ensure the grill is adequately preheated and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. Cooking times may remain the same; just flip them regularly for even grilling.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven?
Yes! To cook these skewers in the oven, preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the beef reaches your desired doneness and the shrimp are cooked through.
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, making sure to not overcook the shrimp again!
