If you’re craving vibrant, bold flavors wrapped in a warm tortilla, then you’re going to absolutely love this Street-Style Steak and Shrimp Tacos Recipe. It brings together perfectly seasoned, tender flank steak and juicy shrimp with a zesty lime crema that elevates each bite. These tacos are a beautiful blend of smoky, spicy, and fresh elements that create an unforgettable street-food experience right at home. Whether you’re hosting friends or just want a delicious twist on taco night, this recipe will be your new go-to for satisfying those flavor-packed cravings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple but essential ingredients is all it takes to create this flavorful masterpiece. Each component—from the spices to the fresh herbs—plays a key role in layering taste and texture, bringing vibrant color and unforgettable taste to your tacos.
- 1 lb flank steak or skirt steak: Choose a cut that grills beautifully and slices thin for tenderness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the spices stick and keeps the meat juicy during cooking.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds smoky warmth to both the steak and shrimp seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Brings earthiness that’s signature to Mexican-style dishes.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses savory depth throughout the marinade.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Intensifies the smoky flavor profile beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness to balance spices on the steak.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to highlight every ingredient’s natural qualities.
- Juice of 1 lime: Adds a bright, tangy pop that wakes up the flavors.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Offers a light, tender protein for surf and turf vibes.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Creates the creamy base for the luscious lime crema sauce.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Adds richness and smooth texture to the crema.
- 12 small corn tortillas: The perfect vessel, soft but sturdy enough to hold all the fillings.
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion: Provides sharp, crunchy contrast and color.
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Offers a fresh, peppery burst that lifts every bite.
- 1 avocado, sliced: Brings creamy, buttery goodness as a cool topping.
- Lime wedges (for serving): To squeeze on top for an extra tangy kick.
How to Make Street-Style Steak and Shrimp Tacos Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Steak
Start by combining olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and freshly squeezed lime juice in a small bowl. Rub this vibrant seasoning blend evenly all over your flank or skirt steak, then let it sit for at least 30 minutes. This is where the magic begins, as the flavors soak deep into the meat, promising every bite will be bursting with zest and spice.
Step 2: Prep the Shrimp
In a separate bowl, toss peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Let them marinate for 10 to 15 minutes so the shrimp soak up those lively flavors. This step ensures your shrimp are just as exciting and delicious as the steak once they hit the heat.
Step 3: Grill the Steak
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high and cook the steak for about 4 to 5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if you like it more done. Don’t rush this part; letting the steak rest for 5 minutes after grilling will help retain its juiciness. Then slice it thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness for assembling your tacos.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Using the same grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat, cook your shrimp for around 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they take on a beautiful pink hue and are cooked through. This quick sear seals in the marinade and gives the shrimp a slight smoky char that pairs perfectly with the steak.
Step 5: Prepare the Lime Crema
In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. This easy lime crema binds all your ingredients together, adding a creamy, tangy finish that softens the heat from the spices while boosting fresh brightness.
Step 6: Warm the Tortillas and Assemble
Heat your corn tortillas on a grill or skillet for about 20 to 30 seconds on each side until warm and pliable. Then layer slices of grilled steak, a few shrimp, chopped red onions, fresh cilantro, and creamy avocado slices. Drizzle with the luscious lime crema, and your street-style tacos are ready to impress.
How to Serve Street-Style Steak and Shrimp Tacos Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your tacos even further, scatter extra chopped cilantro and red onion on top for crunch and herbal freshness. Slices of ripe avocado add smooth, rich contrast, and don’t forget those essential lime wedges for a spritz of zesty tang that brightens every bite.
Side Dishes
These tacos shine alongside simple sides like Mexican street corn (elote), a fresh cabbage slaw, or even a light black bean salad. Each side dish introduces additional textures and flavors, making it a full, colorful meal perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Creative Ways to Present
For fun presentation, serve your Street-Style Steak and Shrimp Tacos Recipe on a colorful platter lined with parchment paper and garnished with lime wedges and extra cilantro sprigs. You could also offer an array of toppings separately, like pickled jalapeños or diced tomatoes, so everyone can build their own perfect taco creation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the grilled steak and shrimp in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep your tortillas separate to avoid sogginess, and store the lime crema in another container to keep it fresh.
Freezing
While the steak and shrimp taste best fresh, you can freeze cooked steak slices in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. For shrimp, freezing is possible but can affect texture slightly. Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the steak and shrimp gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to prevent drying. Warm tortillas separately on a skillet or in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel. Add fresh toppings and crema just before serving to keep everything vibrant and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use other types of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ribeye or sirloin can work well, but flank or skirt steak is preferred for its texture and ability to soak up marinades deeply.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the lime crema?
You can use Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier crema or simply increase the sour cream if you want to skip mayo altogether.
Is it necessary to marinate the shrimp?
Marinating the shrimp is key to infusing them with bold flavor and helping them stay juicy after cooking, so it’s highly recommended.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply ensure your tortillas are corn-based and free of any cross-contamination. This recipe is naturally packed with fresh, gluten-free ingredients.
How spicy are these tacos?
The spice level is moderate, balanced by the creamy lime crema. You can adjust the chili powder amount to suit your heat preference or add fresh sliced jalapeños for extra kick.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about combining steak and shrimp into one flavorful taco, and this Street-Style Steak and Shrimp Tacos Recipe does just that effortlessly. It’s all about bold seasoning, fresh ingredients, and simple techniques that deliver unforgettable results. So grab your grill and invite friends over to share in the joy of these mouthwatering tacos—you’re going to want to make this recipe a permanent staple in your kitchen!
Print
Street-Style Steak and Shrimp Tacos Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 tacos (12 servings)
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
These street-style steak and shrimp tacos are packed with bold, smoky flavors from a vibrant marinade and grilled to perfection. Juicy flank steak and tender shrimp are paired with a tangy lime crema, fresh cilantro, red onions, and creamy avocado, all nestled in warm corn tortillas. Perfect for a lively taco night or casual gathering, these tacos bring a delicious blend of textures and tastes inspired by popular Mexican street food.
Ingredients
Steak Marinade
- 1 lb flank steak or skirt steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
Shrimp Marinade
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
Lime Crema
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Assembly
- 12 small corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Marinate the Steak: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Rub this seasoning all over the steak. Let it marinate at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator to absorb the flavors deeply.
- Marinate the Shrimp: In another bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Toss the shrimp in this mixture until evenly coated. Allow shrimp to marinate 10-15 minutes for best flavor infusion.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the steak and shrimp.
- Grill the Steak: Place the marinated steak on the grill and cook about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness or 6-7 minutes per side for medium. Use the thickness of the steak as your guide. After grilling, remove the steak and let it rest 5 minutes to redistribute juices before slicing thinly against the grain for tenderness.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side or until shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Lime Crema: In a small bowl, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste, creating a tangy and creamy sauce to complement the tacos.
- Warm the Tortillas: Warm the corn tortillas on the grill or in a skillet for 20-30 seconds each side until soft and pliable.
- Assemble the Tacos: On each tortilla, layer grilled steak slices and several shrimp. Top with chopped red onion, fresh cilantro, and avocado slices for freshness and creaminess.
- Serve: Drizzle lime crema over the assembled tacos and serve immediately with lime wedges for an extra burst of citrus zest.
Notes
- Marinating the steak and shrimp enhances flavor but avoid over-marinating shrimp as they can become mushy.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeños to the marinade.
- Use fresh corn tortillas for the most authentic street taco experience.
- Letting the steak rest after grilling ensures juicy, tender slices.
- These tacos can be adapted to gluten-free by using certified gluten-free tortillas.
- Leftover ingredients can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 2 days.
