The smell of sizzling ribeye steak and succulent shrimp wafts through the air, instantly transporting me to a lively summer gathering. This recipe for Grilled Steak and Shrimp Tostadas with Smoky Chipotle Cream strikes the perfect balance between quick and gourmet, making it an ideal choice for a casual dinner or a festive get-together. With customizable toppings and a delightful crunch from the crispy tostada shells, these tostadas offer an enticing combination of flavors and textures that will impress your family and friends. Plus, they come together in no time, allowing you to enjoy the cooking process without the stress. Are you ready to whip up something delicious and unforgettable?
Why choose Grilled Steak & Shrimp Tostadas?
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Bold Flavors: The combination of savory grilled steak and shrimp, complemented by smoky chipotle cream, creates a taste explosion in every bite.
Customizable Toppings: You can easily adapt each tostada to suit your guests’ preferences, from extra guacamole to spicy jalapeños.
Crispy Delight: The crunchy tostada shells provide the perfect base, ensuring each mouthful is a delightful textural experience.
Crowd-Pleaser: These tostadas are sure to impress your friends and family, making them the star of any meal or get-together.
Whether you’re pairing it with a side of fresh salsa or enjoying it on its own, these Grilled Chicken Pasta inspired tostadas are a hit every time!
Grilled Steak & Shrimp Tostadas Ingredients
• Perfect for quick gatherings!
For the Tostadas
- Ribeye Steak – Offers rich, meaty flavor; flank steak or sirloin make great substitutes.
- Large Shrimp – Provides succulent seafood contrast; white fish is an excellent alternative if desired.
- Tostada Shells – Crisp bases for toppings; corn tortillas can be fried to create homemade shells.
For the Guacamole
- Avocados – Key ingredient for a creamy guacamole; use ripe fruit for best results, or frozen can work.
- Cilantro – Adds a fresh flavor; parsley is a nice alternative if cilantro’s not your thing.
- Jalapeño – Delivers mild heat; omit or substitute with fresh green chilies for added kick.
- Red Onion – Brings sweetness and crunch; swap for green onions or shallots for milder notes.
- Lime Juice – Brightens the guacamole; bottled lime juice is a convenient substitute.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor depth; fresh garlic can also be used for a robust taste.
- Black Pepper & Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste preference.
For the Chipotle Cream
- Crema or Sour Cream – Forms the base of the chipotle crema; plain yogurt can offer a lighter option.
- Chipotle Peppers in Adobo – Introduces smoky spice; substitute with smoked paprika for a milder flavor.
This ingredient list will help you create the ultimate Grilled Steak & Shrimp Tostadas bursting with flavor and warmth! Enjoy cooking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Steak & Shrimp Tostadas
Step 1: Prepare the Guacamole
Begin by mashing ripe avocados in a medium bowl using a fork until creamy. Stir in finely chopped cilantro, diced jalapeño, red onion, freshly squeezed lime juice, garlic powder, and season with black pepper and salt to taste. Mix until well combined and refrigerate the guacamole to chill while you continue preparing your Grilled Steak & Shrimp Tostadas.
Step 2: Make the Chipotle Cream
In a small mixing bowl, blend together crema or sour cream with finely chopped chipotle peppers and a drizzle of adobo sauce along with a splash of lime juice. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated. Set this delightful chipotle cream aside, allowing the flavors to meld while you grill the steak and shrimp for your tostadas.
Step 3: Grill the Ribeye Steak
Take the ribeye steak and let it rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 450°F. Season the steak generously with salt and black pepper before placing it on the grill. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping every 2 minutes, until it reaches a perfect 127°F for medium rare. Once cooked, let it rest for 5-10 minutes, then slice it thinly against the grain.
Step 4: Grill the Shrimp
While the ribeye rests, prepare the shrimp by coating them in olive oil and seasoning them with Cajun seasoning. Skewer the shrimp to make handling easier. Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, reaching a safe internal temperature of 145°F. Remove them from the grill and set aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Tostadas
Grab your crispy tostada shells and generously spread a layer of guacamole on each one. Top them with slices of grilled ribeye steak and perfectly grilled shrimp for your Grilled Steak & Shrimp Tostadas. Drizzle the smoky chipotle cream over the top and garnish with additional cilantro if desired. Serve these delicious tostadas immediately to enjoy the crunch and vibrant flavors!
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Steak & Shrimp Tostadas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the guacamole and chipotle cream up to 24 hours in advance by simply storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To keep the guacamole from browning, press plastic wrap directly onto its surface before sealing. Additionally, grill the ribeye steak and shrimp, then refrigerate them separately for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the steak and shrimp in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through. Assemble the tostadas with your prepped ingredients for a delicious, stress-free meal that tastes just as fresh!
Tips for the Best Grilled Steak & Shrimp Tostadas
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Resting the Steak: Allow the ribeye steak to rest after grilling for 5-10 minutes to lock in those delicious juices and maintain tender texture.
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Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Grill shrimp for just 1-2 minutes per side to avoid a rubbery texture. Use a meat thermometer to check for 145°F.
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Ripeness Matters: Use ripe avocados for guacamole; they should be slightly soft but not dark or bruised. For a quicker option, frozen avocados work well too.
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Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to adjust toppings based on personal taste; consider adding diced tomatoes or radishes for extra color and crunch.
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Keeping Guacamole Fresh: Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of leftover guacamole to prevent browning and keep it looking fresh when storing.
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Perfectly Crispy Shells: Ensure that tostada shells are crispy by frying corn tortillas until golden brown, providing the ideal base for your Grilled Steak & Shrimp Tostadas.
Grilled Steak & Shrimp Tostadas Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your tostadas for an even more delightful experience!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute crema with a dairy-free yogurt to make it suitable for lactose intolerance.
Make it creamy while keeping it dairy-free, enjoying similar flavors. -
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the guacamole for extra heat.
This small addition can elevate the flavor and excitement in every bite! -
Zesty Avocado: Mix in freshly chopped mango or pineapple into the guacamole for a tropical twist.
You’ll be surprised how a hint of sweetness can beautifully offset the savory notes. -
Vegan Option: Replace steak and shrimp with marinated tofu and portobello mushrooms.
Grill them for a firm texture and hearty flavor, making your tostadas deliciously plant-based! -
Tasty Veggies: Include grilled corn or zucchini as additional toppings for a healthy crunch.
Feel free to get creative – these colorful veggies will add a burst of vitamins and flavor. -
Herb Swap: Use basil or mint instead of cilantro for a unique herbal freshness.
The different herby notes can change the entire flavor profile and make it really refreshing! -
Smoky Flavor Boost: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the guacamole or chipotle cream for more depth.
This adds rich layers of taste that pair wonderfully with grilled ingredients. -
Shell Alternatives: Use lettuce wraps instead of tostada shells for a low-carb option.
It’s a fantastic way to enjoy all the flavors while being light and fresh, ideal for warm summer days!
By experimenting with these variations, you’ll ensure your Grilled Steak & Shrimp Tostadas are always exciting and full of flavor! For more inspiration, you might also like these Spicy Shrimp Tacos or flavorful Chinese Pepper Steak. Enjoy creating your perfect dish!
Storage Tips for Grilled Steak & Shrimp Tostadas
Fridge: Store leftover grilled steak and shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep guacamole and chipotle cream separate to retain their freshness.
Freezer: If you have extra steak and shrimp, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Guacamole Storage: To prevent browning, store leftover guacamole with plastic wrap pressed directly against the surface. It can remain fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating: When ready to eat, warm the steak and shrimp in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Reassemble your tostadas for a delightful meal again!
What to Serve with Grilled Steak and Shrimp Tostadas?
Imagine a vibrant spread that elevates your tostada experience, creating a full feast bursting with flavor and freshness.
- Fresh Salsa: A bright, zesty salsa adds a refreshing contrast to the heartiness of the tostadas, enhancing each bite with tangy goodness.
- Corn Salad: This sweet and crunchy salad brings a delightful texture and a burst of color that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the savory toppings, providing a crisp, refreshing cut to each mouthful.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: The fragrant rice echoes the lime in the tostadas, tying the meal together with a light and fluffy side.
- Chips and Guacamole: Add a fun, shared element with tortilla chips and extra guacamole—perfect for dipping! The crispiness will delight and encourage more delicious bites.
- Watermelon Feta Salad: A summertime favorite, the sweetness of watermelon and the tang of feta perfectly contrast the smokiness of the chipotle cream.
- Margaritas: Toast to your meal with this classic drink! The refreshing citrus notes cut through the richness of steak and shrimp, making them a perfect pairing.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich, silky chocolate mousse provides a decadent finish, balancing the meal with its sweet, creamy profile.
Grilled Steak & Shrimp Tostadas Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ribeye steak?
Absolutely! For the best ribeye steak, look for cuts that have good marbling, which means little flecks of fat throughout the meat. This fat helps to keep the steak juicy and flavorful when grilled. Choose steaks that are bright red in color without any dark spots, and if possible, opt for USDA Choice or Prime grades for the best taste and tenderness.
What’s the best way to store leftover tostadas?
Very good question! To store leftover grilled steak and shrimp tostadas, place the grilled components in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the tostada shells separate to maintain their crispiness. It’s also best to store the guacamole and chipotle cream in separate containers to keep them fresh.
Can I freeze the grilled steak and shrimp?
Absolutely, you can freeze grilled steak and shrimp! To do so, allow them to cool completely first. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet over low heat.
What should I do if my shrimp come out rubbery?
For perfectly tender shrimp, the key is to avoid overcooking. Grill shrimp for just 1-2 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque, reaching an internal temperature of 145°F. If you find that your shrimp are still rubbery, it may be due to cooking them too long. Always keep a close eye while grilling, and use a meat thermometer for the best results.
What are some dietary considerations for these tostadas?
Great question! If you’re serving these grilled steak & shrimp tostadas to guests, be aware of common allergies. The dish contains shrimp, so make sure none of your guests have shellfish allergies. For those on a gluten-free diet, make sure to use gluten-free tostada shells. You can easily adjust the recipe to accommodate vegetarian or vegan diets by substituting steak and shrimp with grilled vegetables or plant-based protein.
How should I tell when my avocados are ripe for guacamole?
The ideal avocado for your guacamole should feel slightly soft when gently pressed but not mushy or overly dark. Look for avocados with a dark, slightly shiny skin. If you want them to ripen faster, you can place them in a brown paper bag with an apple or banana for a day or two. This will help speed up the ripening process due to the ethylene gas released by the fruits.

Grilled Steak & Shrimp Tostadas: Bold Flavor in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mash ripe avocados in a medium bowl until creamy. Stir in chopped cilantro, diced jalapeño, red onion, lime juice, garlic powder, and season with black pepper and salt. Refrigerate the guacamole while preparing the tostadas.
- Blend crema or sour cream with chopped chipotle peppers and a splash of lime juice in a small bowl until smooth. Set aside.
- Let the ribeye steak rest for about 15 minutes. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season steak with salt and black pepper, cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping every 2 minutes until it reaches 127°F. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes, then slice thinly.
- Coat shrimp in olive oil and Cajun seasoning, skewer them, and grill for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Spread guacamole on tostada shells, top with grilled steak slices and shrimp. Drizzle chipotle cream over the top and garnish with cilantro. Serve immediately.
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