Land meets sea with our Grilled Shish Kabobs (Surf & Turf) recipe! Enjoy succulent shrimp and tender steak pieces, perfectly seasoned and grilled to perfection along with an assortment of fresh vegetables. This meal is ideal for backyard BBQs or affordable upscale dining. These kabobs offer a delightful mix of flavors that cater to all palates.

What are Shish Kabobs?

Shish Kabobs consist of small chunks of meat and vegetables skewered and grilled over direct heat. Their appeal comes from the smoky flavor imparted by the grilling process, combined with the juiciness of well-marinated/seasoned meats and the freshness of charred vegetables.

Why are Grilled Shish Kabobs so Popular?

The popularity of this dish stems from its highly customizable and adaptable nature. Regardless of dietary preferences, shish kabobs can be loaded with all of your favorite ingredients. Additionally, they also cook quickly, making them perfect for dinner or any social gathering.

Best Meats for Kabobs

Beef Kabobs

Choose cuts like sirloin, flank, or tenderloin for their flavor and ability to cook quickly without becoming tough.

Chicken Kabobs

Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs as they retain moisture better than breasts and are more forgiving over high heat (as they won’t dry out nearly as fast).

Lamb Kabobs

Lamb is a classic choice, especially in Middle Eastern recipes. If choosing lamb, select shoulder or leg cuts for tender, flavorful results.

Other Ingredients to Try

Halloumi Cheese – A grilling cheese that retains its shape and has a deliciously salty bite.
Figs – Adds a sweet note that complements savory meats perfectly.
Cherry Tomatoes – Bursting with juice and sweetness, great for adding moisture.
Mango Chunks – Provides a tropical sweetness that pairs well with meats.
Peach Slices – Brings a juicy, sweet contrast to savory components.
Baby Bok Choy – Adds a crunchy, fresh element when slightly charred.

Ingredients for Grilled Shish Kabobs (Surf & Turf)

2 lb. steak tips (sirloin, flank, or tenderloin)
1lb. medium shrimp (pre-seasoned & cooked)
1 lb. baby potatoes
1 medium sweet onion, sliced into wedges
1l b. whole Baby Bella mushrooms
Assorted hot peppers (jalapeños, serrano peppers or chilies), sliced
Favorite steak and vegetable seasoning
Old Bay Seasoning
Skewers, wooden or stainless steel

Preparation and Assembly of Grilled Shish Kabobs

Rinse and dry produce
Slice onion into (thick) wedges
Halve the larger mushrooms, if needed
Slice the jalapeños and chilies into rounds. Slice serrano peppers lengthwise.

Cut steak into bite-size pieces if necessary. Place in bowl and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). Add seasoning of your choice and mix to coat thoroughly.

Toss potatoes in a small bowl with EVOO and seasoning. We highly recommend roasting in a 400 degree oven for 15 minutes prior to placing on skewer and grilling.

Season shrimp with extra Old Bay, if desired. Toss in a small bowl to coat.

If using wooden skewers, soak in cool water (for at least 30 minutes) prior to assembling shish kabobs. This will help prevent the skewers from burning.
After roasting potatoes and seasoning other ingredients, carefully assemble the shish kabobs. There is no correct way to place ingredients – so get creative!

Cooking Instructions for Grilled Shish Kabobs

Preheat grill to medium heat (350-375 degrees). Once heated, carefully place shish kabobs perpendicular to the grates.
Grill shish kabobs for 8-10 minutes; rotate several times to ensure even cooking on all sides.

Transfer to a plate to rest.
Carefully remove ingredients with a fork prior to serving.

Fun Fact: This meal pairs perfectly well with our Caramelized Honey-Glazed Grilled Pineapple