These Cajun Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Steak Skewers are a treat! Juicy steak pieces get a kick from Cajun spices and a yummy garlic-parmesan coating, all cooked easily in the air fryer.
It’s like a flavor party on a stick! I love serving them at gatherings. They’re not only tasty but also quick to make—perfect for busy nights or impressing friends! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sirloin Steak: This cut is great for skewers due to its tenderness and flavor. If you prefer a leaner option, consider using flank steak. For a more budget-friendly choice, chuck steak also works well.
Cajun Seasoning: Store-bought Cajun seasoning is convenient, but you can make your own using paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. Adjust the spice level to fit your taste!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder or even minced garlic from a jar can substitute. Just use about 1/8 teaspoon of powder for every clove.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is ideal for this recipe. If you want a different flavor, Pecorino Romano is a fantastic alternative. Nutritional yeast can be a great option for a dairy-free choice!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor, but avocado oil or melted butter can be great substitutes if you prefer. They also add unique taste profiles!
How Do I Make Sure My Steak is Well-Marinated?
Marinating your steak is key to infusing flavor and tenderness. To ensure the marinade really penetrates the meat:
- Chop the steak into even 1-inch cubes for uniform cooking.
- Mix your marinade ingredients thoroughly and allow time for the flavors to blend.
- Coat every piece of steak well. Don’t skimp; make sure they’re all covered.
- Marinate them for at least 20 minutes, or even longer if possible—up to a few hours in the fridge is great for deeper flavor.
Enjoy the process! A little patience goes a long way in making your skewers delicious.
How to Make Cajun Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Steak Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and marinating, followed by 8-10 minutes for cooking in the air fryer. It’s a quick and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to a temperature of 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your skewers cook evenly and come out deliciously crispy.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it forms a smooth marinade. This blend of flavors is what makes your steak skewers amazing!
3. Marinate the Steak:
Add the cubed sirloin steak to the marinade and toss it around to ensure each piece is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes. Marinating enhances the flavor, so this step is super important!
4. Assemble the Skewers:
After the steak has marinated, thread the cubes onto your skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, it’s a good idea to soak them in water for 10-15 minutes beforehand to prevent burning in the air fryer.
5. Air Fry the Skewers:
Place the skewers in the air fryer basket, making sure they have enough space and are not overcrowded. Cook them for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. Keep an eye on them to reach your desired level of doneness!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the skewers are cooked, carefully remove them from the air fryer. Sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh finish. Your Cajun Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Steak Skewers are now ready to be served hot. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Steak for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin is a great choice, you can also use cuts like ribeye, flank steak, or tenderloin for added tenderness and flavor. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut you choose.
What Can I Substitute for Cajun Seasoning?
If you don’t have Cajun seasoning on hand, you can make your own blend using a mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Adjust the spice levels based on your heat preference, or use Italian seasoning for a milder flavor!
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the steak up to 24 hours in advance. Just store the marinated steak in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, follow the cooking instructions directly from the fridge, adding a minute or two to the cooking time if needed.
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can place them back in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) or gently warm them in a skillet over low heat. This helps maintain the steak’s tenderness.
