These Cajun Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Steak Skewers are a tasty treat! They’re marinated with zesty spices and grilled to perfection in an air fryer, giving you a juicy bite every time.
Just imagine the aroma of garlic and Cajun spices filling your kitchen—it’s mouthwatering! I love whipping these up for a quick dinner or fun party snack. They disappear fast! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak: This cut is great for skewers because it’s tender and flavorful. If you can’t find flank steak, you could use sirloin or skirt steak instead, as they work well too.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds flavor and helps the seasoning stick. If you’re looking for a lighter option, feel free to substitute with avocado oil. It has a high smoke point, perfect for air frying!
Cajun Seasoning: This spice blend adds a kick. You can make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne. If you’re not into spicy, use Italian seasoning instead for a milder flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice nutty flavor. If you want a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast is a great substitute that still offers a cheesy taste.
Fresh Parsley: This is a lovely garnish that brightens the dish. You can use fresh cilantro if that suits your taste better or even skip it for simplicity.
How Do I Marinate the Steak for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating the steak is essential for enriching its taste. It’s best to let it sit for at least 15-30 minutes, but longer is even better if you have time. Here’s how to get the most out of your marinade:
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, Cajun seasoning, minced garlic, Parmesan, soy sauce (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Add the steak cubes and toss gently until they are fully coated.
- For extra flavor, consider marinating it in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours.
Marinades not only infuse flavor but also help keep the meat tender. Trust me, this little step makes a big difference in the final taste!
How to Make Cajun Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Steak Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 pound flank steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional for marinade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and requires an additional 30 minutes for marinating. You’ll spend around 10 minutes air frying the steak skewers, for a total time of about 55 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, start by soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent them from burning during cooking. While they soak, you can preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, Cajun seasoning, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, soy sauce (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together well to create a flavorful marinade. The smell will be amazing!
3. Marinate the Steak:
Add the cubed steak to the bowl with the marinade, tossing the cubes gently to ensure each piece is coated evenly. Let the steak marinate for at least 15-30 minutes. This step really boosts the flavor!
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Once the steak has marinated, take the skewers and thread the steak cubes onto them. Be sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking. It’s okay if some marinade sticks to the steak; it’ll add even more flavor!
5. Air Fry the Skewers:
Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry the skewers at 400°F (200°C) for about 8-10 minutes. Flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they cook evenly and reach your desired doneness.
6. Let Them Rest and Serve:
When the skewers are done cooking, carefully remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices inside the meat. Before serving, garnish the skewers with fresh parsley for a nice touch!
7. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve your Cajun Garlic Parmesan Steak Skewers warm with your favorite dipping sauce or side dishes. Enjoy the savory flavors and impress your family or friends!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Absolutely! While flank steak is great for skewers, you can substitute it with sirloin, ribeye, or even tenderloin for a different flavor and tenderness. Just be mindful of cooking times, as different cuts may require slightly different durations in the air fryer.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the steak cubes in advance, up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, just thread them onto skewers and air fry as directed. This can also enhance the flavors!
What Sauces Pair Well with Steak Skewers?
These skewers are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with a variety of sauces! Try a creamy garlic sauce, chimichurri, or a spicy mustard sauce to add an extra kick. You can even offer a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back into the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, or until warmed through. Enjoy them in a salad or wrap for a quick meal!
