These Cajun Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Steak Skewers are packed with flavor! Juicy chunks of steak are marinated in a spicy Cajun mix and sprinkled with delicious Parmesan cheese.
Who knew steak could be so fun and easy? I love using my air fryer because it cooks them perfectly without all the fuss. Plus, it’s a great way to impress friends at dinner! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Sirloin or ribeye works best because they hold up well to marinating and air frying. If you’re looking for alternatives, flank steak or tenderloin can also be good choices. Just remember to adjust cooking times if you choose a leaner cut.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that strong flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder, but use it in smaller amounts—about 1/4 teaspoon for every clove.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty richness. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a similar flavor boost, or omit it if you prefer to keep it simple.
Cajun Seasoning: This spice blend brings warmth and depth. If you don’t have it, you can create a quick substitute by mixing paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper in equal parts.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps with marinating and keeping the meat moist. If you’re looking for a substitute, avocado oil or vegetable oil work well too!
How Do I Marinate the Steak Properly?
Marinating is essential for flavor and tenderness! Start by combining garlic, Parmesan, Cajun seasoning, olive oil, and parsley in a bowl. This creates a tasty coating that infuses the meat.
- Cut your steak into 1-inch pieces for easy handling and quick cooking.
- Make sure the steak is evenly coated by tossing it well with the marinade.
- Let the steak marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. For a richer flavor, longer marination (up to 2 hours) is best. Just don’t go overboard to avoid toughening the meat.
How to Make Cajun Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Steak Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Skewers:
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes for prep work and then at least 30 minutes to marinate the steak before cooking. After that, you will need around 10 minutes to cook in the air fryer. So, in total, you should plan for about 50 minutes, including marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, olive oil, and chopped parsley. Stir everything together well until it’s nicely mixed. This will be the flavorful marinade for your steak!
2. Marinate the Steak:
Next, add the 1-inch pieces of steak to your marinade. Toss them gently until they are evenly coated with the mixture. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, letting it marinate for up to 2 hours will give even better flavor!
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
While the steak is marinating, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your skewers cook evenly and get that nice golden-brown color.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Once the steak has finished marinating, take it out of the fridge. Now it’s time to thread those delicious pieces of steak onto the skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking. If you’re using wooden skewers, ensure they’ve been soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
5. Air Fry the Skewers:
Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd them; you want the hot air to circulate freely around each skewer. Cook the skewers for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until the steak is cooked to your liking.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once they’re done cooking, carefully remove the skewers from the air fryer. Let them rest for a couple of minutes to allow the juices to settle. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful Cajun Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Steak Skewers, garnished with additional chopped parsley if you like!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are great options, you can use any cut you prefer, such as flank steak or tenderloin. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness and tenderness of the cut, so adjust accordingly.
What if I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No problem! You can easily make your own Cajun seasoning by mixing equal parts paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and black pepper. Just adjust the heat level to your liking by adding more or less cayenne!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover steak skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through, which will help maintain their crispy exterior.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can marinate the steak pieces ahead of time and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours. If you want to prep them further, you can assemble the skewers and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to air fry. Just ensure you allow them to come to room temperature before cooking for even results.
