Craving a delicious, low-carb meal that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion? Look no further than these incredible Keto Steak and Shrimp Kabobs with Garlic Butter. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard BBQ, planning a healthy cookout, or simply looking for a satisfying and filling lunch, these kabobs hit all the right notes. Featuring tender steak, succulent jumbo shrimp, and a vibrant medley of colorful vegetables, all infused with an irresistible garlic butter, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your keto kitchen. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that’s both healthy and incredibly delicious.
The Allure of Surf and Turf Kabobs
The classic pairing of shrimp and steak, affectionately known as “surf and turf,” has long been a culinary delight, and for good reason. The rich, savory depth of perfectly grilled steak combined with the delicate, sweet brininess of shrimp creates a harmonious flavor profile that is truly unique. On a skewer, this combination becomes even more exciting, offering a delightful textural contrast with every bite. The robust chew of the steak complements the tender, slightly snappy texture of the shrimp, making these kabobs a feast for the senses. They’re an ideal choice for the grill, bringing that beloved smoky char that enhances both proteins.
Beyond their exquisite taste, these Keto Steak and Shrimp Kabobs offer incredible versatility, especially for those adhering to a low-carb lifestyle. They provide a high-quality protein source that can be easily repurposed throughout the week. Imagine them sliced and added to a crisp, refreshing salad for a quick lunch, or served alongside your favorite keto-friendly steamed or roasted vegetables for a complete dinner. This recipe isn’t just about grilling; it’s about smart meal planning and enjoying gourmet flavors without compromising your dietary goals.
Elevating Flavor with Garlic Butter
While steak and shrimp are fantastic on their own, what truly elevates these kabobs to an extraordinary level is the luscious garlic butter. This isn’t just any butter; it’s a carefully crafted blend designed to infuse every piece of steak, every jumbo shrimp, and every tender vegetable with an unparalleled depth of flavor. We use fresh, minced garlic for its pungent aroma and vibrant taste, finely chopped fresh parsley for a touch of herbaceous brightness, and a simple seasoning of salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance all the natural flavors. This seemingly basic concoction transforms the ingredients, making each bite incredibly rich and satisfying.
This garlic butter isn’t just for cooking; it’s the finishing touch that brings everything together. Brushing it liberally over the hot, freshly cooked kabobs ensures maximum flavor penetration, creating a glaze that is both aromatic and utterly delicious. The choice of fresh ingredients here is paramount; fresh garlic offers a sharpness and depth that dried garlic simply can’t replicate, and fresh parsley provides a clean, green counterpoint to the richness of the butter and meat. This simple step makes all the difference, transforming a good meal into a truly amazing one.
Perfect for Keto Meal Prep
One of the greatest advantages of these Garlic Butter Steak and Shrimp Kabobs is their suitability for meal prepping. For those committed to a keto lifestyle, having ready-to-eat, delicious, and compliant meals is a game-changer. After grilling, allow the kabobs to cool slightly before gently removing the steak, shrimp, and vegetables from the skewers. Store them together in airtight containers in your refrigerator. This strategic meal prep allows you to enjoy a flavorful, low-carb protein source for up to five days, simplifying your busy week and keeping you on track with your nutritional goals.
Imagine the convenience of grabbing a container from the fridge, knowing you have a perfectly cooked, garlic-infused protein ready to go. You can easily reheat them in the microwave or a skillet, or even enjoy them cold atop a vibrant salad. This not only saves time but also reduces the temptation to reach for less healthy options when hunger strikes. With these kabobs prepped, you’re always just minutes away from a satisfying, keto-friendly meal.
Customizing Your Keto Grilled Kabobs
The beauty of kabobs lies in their adaptability. While this recipe specifically highlights steak and shrimp, the concept of keto-friendly grilled skewers is incredibly versatile. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different proteins to keep your meals exciting and diverse. Consider swapping out the steak for succulent pork chops, cut into cubes, or tender chicken breast pieces. Both pork and chicken are excellent keto options that absorb flavors beautifully and cook wonderfully on the grill or in the oven. For an extra layer of flavor, you could even marinate these alternative meats in a simple blend of olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, and spices before skewering.
The vegetable component of these kabobs is equally flexible. The original recipe calls for zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion, which are fantastic choices. However, feel free to incorporate other low-carb vegetables that you enjoy. Mushrooms add an earthy umami flavor and a tender texture when grilled. Asparagus spears, cherry tomatoes, broccoli florets, or even chunks of cauliflower can all be threaded onto skewers alongside your proteins. The key is to cut the vegetables into pieces roughly similar in size to your meat and shrimp, ensuring they cook evenly and are easy to eat. This customization allows you to create a unique flavor profile every time you make them, preventing meal fatigue and making your keto journey more enjoyable.
What To Serve With Your Keto Steak and Shrimp Kabobs
Since these Garlic Butter Steak and Shrimp Kabobs are a grilled masterpiece, pairing them with lighter, complementary keto-friendly side dishes is ideal. The goal is to enhance the main course without adding unnecessary carbs. One of the best ways to complete this meal is with my keto garlic knots. These low-carb rolls perfectly mimic the comfort of traditional bread and, with their own hint of garlic, create a harmonious flavor profile with the garlic butter on the kabobs. It’s a match made in low-carb heaven, providing that comforting “bread” experience without the carb count.
Another fantastic option is creamy cauliflower mash. Its smooth, velvety texture and mild flavor make it an excellent substitute for mashed potatoes, providing a satisfying base for soaking up any extra garlic butter or meat juices. And when grilling, you can almost never go wrong with a side of cheesy asparagus with bacon. The crisp, salty bacon combined with tender, cheesy asparagus adds another layer of irresistible flavor and texture, creating a truly decadent yet keto-compliant feast.
For those who prefer a fresher, lighter accompaniment, a variety of salads pair beautifully with these kabobs. Consider a crisp creamy cucumber radish salad for a refreshing crunch, a classic keto coleslaw for a tangy counterpoint, or rich and comforting creamed spinach with mushrooms and bacon. These vibrant, low-carb salads not only add color and texture to your plate but also provide essential nutrients, making your meal balanced and incredibly enjoyable. No matter your preference, there’s a perfect keto side dish to complement these delicious kabobs.
Essential Tips for Grilling Perfect Keto Kabobs
Achieving perfectly cooked Keto Steak and Shrimp Kabobs requires a few key considerations, especially when combining different proteins and vegetables on the same skewer. One of the most crucial tips for grilling success is to select jumbo shrimp. The reason for this is simple: larger shrimp will have a cooking time that more closely aligns with that of your steak chunks. If you use smaller shrimp, they risk overcooking and becoming rubbery or even burning before your steak reaches its desired doneness. Uniformity in size is key to ensuring everything cooks through simultaneously and perfectly.
Whether you’re using an outdoor grill for that quintessential smoky flavor or an indoor grill pan for convenience, proper preparation is vital. Always preheat your grill to the specified temperature (375 degrees F for this recipe) to ensure a hot, even cooking surface. Lightly oil your grill grates to prevent sticking. If opting for oven baking, remember to soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes (preferably a few hours) beforehand. This prevents them from burning during the cooking process. Oven baking is a fantastic alternative for those without a grill, yielding delicious results with slightly less char.
When it comes to the star of the show – the garlic butter – always opt for fresh ingredients. Freshly minced garlic provides a potent, aromatic punch that dried garlic simply cannot match. Similarly, fresh parsley offers a bright, herbaceous note that balances the richness of the butter and meat, enhancing both the visual appeal and the overall flavor profile. While dried herbs can be convenient, their flavor is often muted. Investing in fresh herbs for this recipe will truly elevate it from good to gourmet, trust me. Don’t forget to season your steak, shrimp, and vegetables generously with salt and pepper before threading them onto the skewers, as this initial seasoning builds the flavor from the inside out. With these tips, you’re well on your way to creating memorable and delicious Keto Steak and Shrimp Kabobs every time.
Keto Steak and Shrimp Kabobs Recipe
Here’s the complete recipe for these delicious and low-carb steak and shrimp kabobs. Be sure to pin this post to your favorite Pinterest board so you can easily find it later for your next cookout or meal prep session!
Recipe Snapshot
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6 people
- Calories: 295 kcal per serving
Ingredients
For the Kabobs:
- 1 medium Zucchini, sliced
- 1/2 large Red Bell Pepper, chopped into large pieces
- 1/2 large Yellow Bell Pepper, chopped into large pieces
- 1/2 large Red Onion, chopped into large pieces
- 1 pound Steak, cut into large chunks (e.g., sirloin, ribeye)
- 1 pound Jumbo Shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 6 wooden skewers (soaked if using oven)
For the Garlic Butter:
- 4 tbsp Butter, melted
- 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped
- 2 tsp Fresh Garlic, minced
- Pinch of Salt and Pepper
Instructions
Preheat your cooking apparatus: an indoor or outdoor grill, or the oven to 375°F (190°C). If you plan to use wooden skewers for oven cooking, ensure they are soaked in water for at least a few hours prior to use to prevent burning.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared jumbo shrimp, steak chunks, and all the chopped vegetables.
Drizzle the mixture generously with olive oil. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well coated.
Carefully thread the marinated steak, shrimp, and vegetables onto the soaked skewers, alternating ingredients as desired for an attractive presentation and even cooking.
For grilling: Place the kabobs directly on the preheated grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, turning occasionally, until the steak is cooked to your preferred doneness and the shrimp are pink and opaque. For oven baking: Arrange the kabobs on a baking sheet. Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until thoroughly cooked.
While the kabobs are cooking, prepare the garlic butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, fresh chopped parsley, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well.
As soon as the kabobs are removed from the grill or oven, immediately brush them generously with the prepared garlic butter. Serve hot and enjoy!
Recipe Notes
Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving):
- Calories: 295 kcal
- Net Carbs: 3g Net Carbs
The nutritional information for this recipe is calculated as a courtesy and is approximate only. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipes on this site. Please verify with your preferred nutrition calculator if precision is essential for your dietary needs.
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More Delicious Keto Dinner Ideas
If you loved these Keto Steak and Shrimp Kabobs, be sure to explore other fantastic low-carb dinner recipes that are perfect for your keto journey. Here are a couple of our top recommendations:
- Garlic Butter Chicken & Zucchini Foil Packs: An incredibly easy and flavorful meal that cooks up quickly with minimal cleanup, perfect for weeknights.
- Creamy Keto Lemon Chicken: A rich and zesty dish that delivers on flavor without the carbs, ideal for a comforting yet healthy dinner.
Embrace the vibrant flavors and health benefits of the ketogenic diet with these delightful and easy-to-prepare meals. Happy cooking!