There’s something undeniably magical about the perfect taco—and these Surf & Turf Tacos hit every high note. Juicy flank steak, succulent shrimp, and smoky sautéed veggies come together inside warm flour tortillas, creating a handheld feast that’s as impressive as it is easy to pull off.
Whether you’re entertaining guests or looking to shake up your usual weeknight dinner rotation, this recipe is a standout. It’s perfect for food lovers who crave a little decadence without hours in the kitchen. This dish pairs land and sea in the most delicious way, with a spice blend that brings out the best in each element.
Why You’ll Love These Surf & Turf Tacos
These tacos are for the bold flavor seekers. For the home cooks who want restaurant-quality meals without breaking a sweat. For the taco purists and experimenters alike. And for anyone looking to elevate their taco night with something unique and unforgettable.
The combination of tender beef and buttery shrimp is a game changer—each bite delivers a savory punch balanced by charred peppers and onions, the brightness of fresh cilantro, and the zing of a lime wedge. They’re also highly customizable, making them a crowd-pleaser for all ages and dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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8 small flour tortillas 🌯
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200g flank steak, sliced thin 🥩
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200g shrimp, peeled & deveined 🍤
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1/2 red bell pepper, sliced 🫑
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1/2 onion, sliced 🧅
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2 garlic cloves, minced 🧄
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 tsp chili powder
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1/2 tsp cumin
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Salt & pepper to taste 🧂
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Fresh chopped cilantro 🌿
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Lime wedges for serving 🍋
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this recipe smooth and stress-free, here’s what you’ll need in your kitchen:
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Sharp knife and cutting board
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Mixing bowls
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Cast iron skillet or large frying pan
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Tongs or spatula
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Paper towels
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Small pan or microwave for warming tortillas
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Serving platter or taco holder
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Season the Proteins
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced flank steak and shrimp. Add chili powder, cumin, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat everything evenly. Let this marinate while you prep your veggies.
Pro Tip: Let the seasoned meat rest for at least 10 minutes for deeper flavor. If you have time, 30 minutes in the fridge is even better!
2. Sear the Steak
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes, turning once, until nicely browned and just cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Cook the Shrimp
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Sauté the shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the steak.
4. Sauté the Veggies
Toss in the sliced onions and bell pepper. Sauté over high heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re slightly charred and softened.
5. Warm the Tortillas
Warm your tortillas in a dry pan, wrapped in foil in the oven, or microwave them for 15-20 seconds in a stack with a damp paper towel.
6. Assemble and Serve
Fill each tortilla with a mix of steak, shrimp, and sautéed veggies. Top with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
Serving Idea: Offer a DIY taco bar for gatherings—let everyone build their own with extra toppings like avocado, shredded cheese, hot sauce, or slaw!
Recipe Tips & Variations
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Tortilla Swap: Not a fan of flour? Use corn tortillas, lettuce wraps, or even tortilla chips for nacho-style servings.
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Make It Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños, a drizzle of chipotle mayo, or a few dashes of hot sauce for heat lovers.
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Add Crunch: Shredded cabbage or radishes add a crisp texture contrast.
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Go Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but if you want creaminess, try a cashew crema or avocado mash.
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Make It a Bowl: Skip the tortilla and serve it all over rice or greens for a taco bowl version.
How to Store Leftovers
Have leftovers? Here’s how to keep them tasting fresh:
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Meat & Veggies: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
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Tortillas: Wrap in foil or plastic wrap. Refrigerate and reheat in a pan for best results.
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Pro Tip: Keep the elements separate if storing—this prevents the tortillas from getting soggy.
What to Serve With Surf & Turf Tacos
These tacos are rich and flavorful, so pairing them with the right sides and drinks can elevate the whole meal.
Side Dish Ideas:
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Mexican street corn (elote)
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Cilantro lime rice
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Black beans or pinto beans
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Fresh mango or pineapple salsa
Drink Pairings:
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Classic margarita (lime or jalapeño!)
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Cold Mexican lager or pale ale
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Sparkling water with lime
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Iced hibiscus tea for a non-alcoholic option
FAQ – Surf & Turf Taco Edition
Q: Can I use another cut of steak?
A: Absolutely! Skirt steak or sirloin are great alternatives—just make sure to slice thinly against the grain.
Q: What if I don’t like shrimp?
A: Substitute with scallops, fish, or more steak. You could also go vegetarian and use grilled mushrooms or tofu.
Q: Can I grill instead of pan-fry?
A: Yes! Grilling adds an incredible smoky flavor—just make sure to use skewers or a grill basket for shrimp.
Q: Can I freeze this recipe?
A: You can freeze the cooked steak and shrimp separately in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
Q: How can I make this low-carb?
A: Serve in lettuce wraps or on a salad bed. Skip the tortillas and still enjoy all the flavor.
Final Thoughts: Your New Favorite Taco Night Recipe
These Surf & Turf Tacos bring the best of land and sea to your dinner table with minimal effort and maximum flavor. They’re festive, fast, and full of texture—perfect for taco Tuesday, weekend cookouts, or even date night.
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Let’s taco ’bout it—leave a comment below and tell us how you made it your own! 🌮✨