These Cajun garlic parmesan air fryer steak skewers are full of flavor! Juicy pieces of steak are seasoned with zesty Cajun spices and topped with cheesy goodness, making them a real treat.
Cooking them in the air fryer means they come out perfectly cooked and crispy without the fuss. I love serving them with a side of dipping sauce—it’s like a party on a skewer! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: I recommend using sirloin or ribeye for a juicy and flavorful result. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider flank steak or tenderloin. Both work well and are easy to find.
Olive Oil: This adds great flavor and helps the seasonings stick. You can swap it for avocado oil if you prefer a higher smoke point or even melted butter for richer taste.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential here for that vibrant flavor. If you’re out of fresh garlic, use garlic powder—just about 1/8 teaspoon will do the trick.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan enhances the savory factor. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano can be a sharp alternative. Nutritional yeast also offers a dairy-free option that’s packed with flavor.
Cajun Seasoning: If you don’t have store-bought Cajun seasoning, mix paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and dried thyme to create a similar spice blend. Adjust the heat level based on your taste!
How Do I Make Sure My Steak Skewers Stay Juicy?
Getting juicy steak skewers comes down to marinating and cooking them properly. Marinating adds flavor and tenderness. Aim for at least 30 minutes but allow a few hours for the best results.
- Combine olive oil, garlic, Parmesan, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper well.
- Toss the steak cubes gently in the marinade, ensuring they’re well coated.
- Do not overcrowd the skewers in the air fryer; this helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
- Check the steak’s doneness with a meat thermometer for perfect results—135°F for medium-rare is perfect.
How to Make Cajun Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Steak Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Skewers:
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (bamboo or metal)
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 45 minutes in total. You’ll need around 5 minutes to prepare and preheat the air fryer. After that, let the steak marinate for at least 30 minutes, and cook it in the air fryer for 8-10 minutes. It’s quick and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This will take about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that your steak gets that perfect sear!
2. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to create a delicious marinade that will flavor your steak cubes.
3. Marinate the Steak:
Add the steak cubes to the bowl with the marinade. Toss them around gently to make sure they are well coated. If you have the time, let the steak marinate for at least 30 minutes. For even better flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate it for a few hours.
4. Thread the Steak onto Skewers:
Once the steak has marinated, take your skewers and carefully thread the marinated steak cubes onto them. Pack them closely together, but make sure they’re not too tight so they cook evenly.
5. Air Fry the Skewers:
Place the skewers into the preheated air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd them; it’s best to keep a little space in between. Cook the steak skewers for about 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature (135°F or 57°C for medium-rare).
6. Serve and Garnish:
When the skewers are cooked to your liking, carefully remove them from the air fryer. Sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley on top for a bright and tasty garnish. Now you’re ready to enjoy your flavorful Cajun Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Steak Skewers!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Steak for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are great choices, you can also use flank steak or tenderloin. Just be aware that different cuts might require slight adjustments in cooking time. Leaner cuts may cook faster, so keep an eye on them!
What Can I Substitute for Cajun Seasoning?
If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can make your own by mixing paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano. Alternatively, Creole seasoning works well, too, offering a similar flavor profile with its own unique twist!
Can I Marinate the Steak Overnight?
Yes, marinating the steak overnight is a great way to enhance the flavors! Just ensure you keep it covered in the refrigerator. This longer marination can make the steak even more tender and flavorful.
How to Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover steak skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) or gently warm them in the microwave. Enjoy your leftovers!
