Grilling season doesn’t have to end when summer does. These easy shrimp kabobs and seafood skewers cook up in minutes in the air fryer, on the Blackstone, or on a Ninja grill, so you can enjoy that smoky, charred flavor all fall long without standing over an outdoor grill in the cold.
Shrimp and salmon are some of the fastest proteins you can make, which makes them perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast. You’ll find sweet and tangy Hawaiian shrimp, garlicky pesto skewers, classic Old Bay, teriyaki, flaky salmon, and even bacon-wrapped scallops. Pair them with roasted fall veggies, rice, or a big salad for a light, healthy, and seriously easy fall dinner.
Why You’ll Love These Shrimp & Seafood Kabobs
- Fast: Most of these skewers cook in under 10 minutes.
- No outdoor grill needed: The air fryer, Blackstone, and Ninja grill give you grilled flavor year-round.
- Healthy and high-protein: Seafood is naturally lean, and many of these recipes are low-carb and keto-friendly.
- Easy to customize: Swap in your favorite veggies, sauces, and seasonings.
- Crowd-friendly: Serve them as a main dish or a party appetizer.
Easy Air Fryer Hawaiian Shrimp Kabobs
Juicy shrimp, sweet pineapple, and colorful bell peppers get coated in a sweet and tangy marinade, then air fried until caramelized at the edges. They bring a little tropical sunshine to a chilly fall evening and are ready in about 10 minutes. Serve over coconut rice for an easy weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Hawaiian Shrimp Kabobs
Air Fryer Basil Pesto Shrimp Kebobs
Just a few simple ingredients, including store-bought basil pesto, lemon, and Parmesan, turn plain shrimp into a garlicky, herby dinner in about 8 minutes. The edges get lightly charred while the inside stays tender. These are perfect over pasta, zucchini noodles, or a simple green salad.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Basil Pesto Shrimp Kebobs
Air Fryer Old Bay Shrimp Skewers
Classic Old Bay seasoning gives these shrimp skewers that bold, coastal flavor everyone loves. With only five ingredients and about 15 minutes from start to finish, they’re a go-to for game day, tailgates, and fast family dinners. They’re keto and low-carb friendly too.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Old Bay Shrimp Skewers
Easy Air Fryer Salmon Kebabs
Cubes of salmon and tender veggies are threaded onto skewers and air fried until the fish is moist and flaky with lightly crisp edges. It’s a simple way to get a healthy, omega-3-rich dinner on the table without heating up the oven. Serve with roasted sweet potatoes for a cozy fall plate.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Salmon Kebabs
Blackstone Teriyaki Shrimp Kabobs
Shrimp, bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and pineapple are skewered and seared on the Blackstone griddle, then glazed with sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. The flat top gives everything a beautiful sear in minutes. Serve over fried rice for a takeout-style dinner at home.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Teriyaki Shrimp Kabobs
Air Fryer Shrimp Skewers
This simple base recipe uses olive oil, fresh garlic, lemon juice, and paprika for juicy shrimp skewers in under 10 minutes. It’s also super versatile. Try it with Cajun seasoning, honey soy, lemon herb, or teriyaki to keep weeknight dinners interesting.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp Skewers
Air Fryer Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Get that grilled shrimp flavor without ever stepping outside. These seasoned shrimp skewers cook in the air fryer in just 5 to 7 minutes, making them one of the quickest dinners on this list. Add them to tacos, grain bowls, or a fall harvest salad.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Ninja Foodi Grill Shrimp Skewers
The Ninja Foodi Grill gives these marinated shrimp skewers real grill marks and a golden crust, all from your kitchen counter. Dinner is ready in under 20 minutes, and the shrimp work beautifully on their own, over salad, or tucked into tacos.
Get the Recipe: Ninja Foodi Grill Shrimp Skewers
Red Lobster Bacon Wrapped Scallops
Sweet, tender scallops are wrapped in thin-cut bacon, secured with picks, and air fried until the bacon is crisp. This copycat favorite feels restaurant-fancy but takes just minutes to make. Serve as an appetizer for holiday parties or pair with a salad for an elegant fall dinner.
Get the Recipe: Red Lobster Bacon Wrapped Scallops
Tips for the Best Shrimp Kabobs
- Pat the shrimp dry. Dry shrimp brown and char instead of steaming.
- Use large shrimp. Bigger shrimp are easier to skewer and harder to overcook.
- Soak wooden skewers. Soak them in water for about 20 to 30 minutes so they don’t burn.
- Size your skewers. Most air fryer baskets fit 6-inch skewers, so trim longer ones with kitchen shears.
- Don’t over-marinate. Marinades with lemon or lime can make shrimp mushy if they sit longer than about 30 minutes.
- Cook in a single layer. Give the skewers space so the hot air can circulate.
- Watch for the “C” shape. Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque and curl into a loose C.
What to Serve with Seafood Kabobs for Fall
Turn these skewers into a cozy fall dinner with roasted butternut squash, air fryer sweet potato fries, garlic green beans, wild rice pilaf, or a harvest salad with apples and pecans. For lighter meals, serve them over cauliflower rice or a bed of mixed greens.
Shrimp Kabob FAQs
How long do shrimp kabobs take to cook in the air fryer?
Most shrimp kabobs take about 5 to 10 minutes in the air fryer at 375°F to 400°F, depending on the size of the shrimp. Flip them halfway through for even cooking.
Can I use frozen shrimp for kabobs?
Yes. Thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before marinating and threading them onto skewers for the best texture.
Can I put wooden skewers in the air fryer?
Yes. Just soak them in water first to help prevent burning, and make sure they fit flat inside your basket.
What vegetables go well on shrimp kabobs?
Bell peppers, red onion, zucchini, yellow squash, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, and pineapple all cook quickly and pair well with shrimp.
How do I store leftover shrimp kabobs?
Remove the shrimp from the skewers and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 to 3 days. Reheat briefly in the air fryer so they don’t get rubbery.
More Easy Seafood Dinners to Try
Whether you’re craving tropical Hawaiian shrimp, smoky Old Bay skewers, or crispy bacon-wrapped scallops, these easy shrimp and seafood kabobs prove that quick, healthy dinners don’t have to stop when the weather cools down. Pick a favorite, grab your air fryer or griddle, and enjoy a fresh, flavorful fall dinner in min
