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There’s something incredibly satisfying about the sizzling sound of ribeye steak and succulent shrimp grilling to perfection. As summer makes its grand entrance, I find myself craving dishes that celebrate the warmth of the season and the joy of sharing meals with loved ones. That’s when I devised this Grilled Steak and Shrimp Tostadas recipe, blending the heartiness of surf and turf into the crispiness of tostadas—every bite is a burst of flavor!

Perfect for casual gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner, these tostadas are topped with homemade guacamole and a smoky chipotle crema, making them not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re hosting a taco night with friends or simply indulging in a delightful meal at home, this recipe promises to elevate your dining experience and leave everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to enjoy the perfect balance of crispy, creamy, and juicy textures that will have you dreaming of sunny days and festive evenings!

Why are Grilled Steak and Shrimp Tostadas a Must-Try?

Bold flavors: The combination of fresh ingredients and grilled meats brings out an unforgettable taste that excites the palate.
Easy to make: With simple steps to follow, you’ll impress everyone at your table with minimal effort.
Perfect for gatherings: Ideal for casual get-togethers, these tostadas make sharing a breeze.
Versatile options: Customize with different toppings or seasoning to suit any taste, ensuring every bite is unique.
Quick and satisfying: Enjoy a delicious meal in no time, making it a standout option for busy weeknights.

For more effortless meal ideas, check out our collection of easy dinners.

Grilled Steak and Shrimp Tostadas Ingredients

For the Steak & Shrimp
• Ribeye Steak – Offers a rich, meaty flavor; flank steak or sirloin can serve as tasty substitutes.
• Large Shrimp – Provides a succulent seafood contrast; feel free to switch with any white fish if desired.
• Olive Oil – Used for coating the shrimp; any neutral oil makes a good alternative.
• Cajun Seasoning – Imparts a zesty flavor to the shrimp; you can create a homemade version if you prefer.

For the Tostadas
• Tostada Shells – The crispy base for your toppings; you can fry corn tortillas until golden instead of buying pre-made.

For the Guacamole
• Avocados – Essential for that creamy guacamole; ripe avocados yield the best results, but frozen can work too.
• Cilantro – Adds refreshing flavor; parsley is a great substitution if you’re not a fan of cilantro.
• Jalapeño – Gives a mild heat; leave it out for a milder flavor or toss in fresh green chilies for extra spice.
• Red Onion – Brings sweetness and crunch; use green onions or shallots for a milder taste option.
• Lime Juice – Brightens the guacamole; for convenience, bottled lime juice can replace fresh lime.
• Garlic Powder – Adds depth to the flavor; fresh garlic is a suitable substitute, adjusted to your liking.
• Black Pepper & Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your personal taste.

For the Chipotle Cream
• Crema or Sour Cream – Creates the smoky chipotle crema; plain yogurt is a lighter alternative.
• Chipotle Peppers in Adobo – Provides a smoky spice; smoked paprika can be used for a milder twist.

This carefully curated list of ingredients ensures your Grilled Steak and Shrimp Tostadas will be a flavor-packed success at your dining table!

How to Make Grilled Steak and Shrimp Tostadas

Prepare Guacamole: In a bowl, combine mashed avocados, chopped cilantro, diced jalapeño, red onion, freshly squeezed lime juice, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until creamy and smooth, then refrigerate to keep fresh.
Make Chipotle Cream: In a small bowl, blend the crema or sour cream, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, and lime juice until well-combined and smooth. Set it aside to let the flavors meld together.
Grill Ribeye Steak: Take your ribeye steak out to reach room temperature; season generously with salt and pepper. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the steak for about 10-12 minutes, flipping every 2 minutes, until it reaches a juicy 127°F for medium-rare. Allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain.
Grill the Shrimp: Toss the large shrimp in olive oil and Cajun seasoning to coat evenly. Skewer the shrimp for ease of grilling. Grill for 1-2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and reach 145°F, then remove from skewers.
Assemble Tostadas: Spread a generous layer of guacamole on each tostada shell. Top with sliced ribeye and grilled shrimp, then drizzle with the smoky chipotle cream. Optionally, garnish with extra cilantro for a refreshing touch. Serve immediately for the best crunch and flavor.

Optional: Add diced tomatoes or diced radishes for extra color and texture.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Grilled Steak and Shrimp Tostadas

Fridge: Store any leftover grilled steak and shrimp tostadas in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring the toppings are separated to maintain crispness.

Freezer: While it’s best to enjoy tostadas fresh, cooked steak and shrimp can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap each tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Reheat steak and shrimp in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to preserve textures; assemble tostadas fresh on serving day.

Grilled Steak and Shrimp Tostadas Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these delightful variations!

Healthier Option: Swap ribeye for sirloin or flank steak for a leaner alternative without sacrificing flavor.
Seafood Swap: Instead of shrimp, try grilling scallops or your favorite white fish for an entirely new twist.
Vegetarian Delight: Replace meat and seafood with black beans or grilled veggies, topped with extra avocado and cheese for richness.
Extra Crunch: Add diced radishes or crispy cabbage to your tostadas for a surprising crunch that complements all the softness.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced habaneros into your guacamole or chipotle crema to turn up the heat for spice lovers.
Citrus Boost: Mix in some orange or grapefruit segments on top of the tostadas for a refreshing burst of sweetness.
Smoky Flair: Infuse the guacamole with smoked paprika for an extra smoky depth that complements the grilled flavors beautifully.
Garnish Variety: Experiment with garnishes like crumbled feta or pickled jalapeños for an unexpected flavor dimension.

These variations will not only keep things exciting on your table but also cater to different tastes and dietary preferences!

What to Serve with Grilled Steak and Shrimp Tostadas?

Pairing a delicious meal with the right sides elevates every dining experience, making it memorable for the entire family.

Mexican Rice: A flavorful side that balances the spicy elements of the tostadas and absorbs any extra guacamole.
Refried Beans: Their creamy texture complements the crunchiness of tostadas while adding a hearty element to your meal.
Grilled Corn Salad: The sweetness of corn paired with lime and cilantro brightens up the dish, providing a colorful, fresh addition.
Crispy Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw can add a refreshing bite and contrast nicely with the grilled meats, enhancing the overall flavor.
Margaritas: Nothing beats a tangy margarita on a hot day; it’s the perfect drink to wash down these tasty tostadas.
Churros: Finish with a sweet touch! These cinnamon-sugar-covered delights provide a perfect contrast to the savory meal and round out the occasion.

Embrace flavors and textures that harmoniously tie together this vibrant dish!

Make Ahead Options

These Grilled Steak and Shrimp Tostadas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the guacamole and chipotle crema up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. To maintain freshness, store the guacamole in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent browning. You can also marinate the shrimp in olive oil and Cajun seasoning up to 3 hours prior to grilling for enhanced flavor. When you’re ready to serve, simply grill the steak and shrimp as directed, assemble your tostadas, and enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. This way, you can savor delicious meals without the last-minute rush!

Expert Tips for Grilled Steak and Shrimp Tostadas

Don’t Overcook: Ensure shrimp reach 145°F and avoid overcooking to prevent a rubbery texture; they grill quickly!
Rest the Steak: Let your grilled steak rest for 5-10 minutes after grilling to maintain juiciness and flavor.
Creamy Guacamole: Use ripe avocados for the smoothest guacamole; don’t skip the lime juice to prevent browning!
Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of jalapeño in the guacamole and chipotle cream to suit your spice preference for these grilled steak and shrimp tostadas.
Fresh Ingredients: Always try to use fresh lime juice and fresh herbs for the best taste; it makes a significant flavor difference.

Grilled Steak and Shrimp Tostadas Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to select ripe avocados?
Absolutely! Look for avocados that are slightly soft to the touch but not mushy. A dark skin usually indicates ripeness, but avoid any that exhibit dark spots all over, as this can signify overripeness or spoilage. If you find hard avocados, store them at room temperature for a few days until they soften.

How should I store leftover tostadas?
Very good question! For optimal freshness, store any leftover grilled steak and shrimp tostadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to separate the toppings to keep the tostada shells crispy. If you only have toppings left, those can be stored the same way, but guacamole may brown—press plastic wrap onto the surface before sealing to minimize oxidation.

Can I freeze the grilled steak and shrimp?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked steak and shrimp for up to 2 months. To do so, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through—avoiding the microwave helps maintain texture!

What do I do if my shrimp turns out rubbery?
If the shrimp ends up rubbery, it likely cooked too long. For future grilling, aim for just 1-2 minutes per side and use a meat thermometer; shrimp are perfectly cooked when they reach 145°F. Skewering shrimp can also help ensure they cook evenly. Always have your grill preheated!

Are these tostadas pet-friendly?
This is an important consideration! While the grilled steak and shrimp are fine for dogs in moderation, skip the guacamole, as avocados can be harmful to pets. Always remove any extra seasonings or toppings that could be unhealthy for pets, and consult your vet for personalized advice on your furry friend’s diet.

Can I customize the heat level in the guacamole and chipotle cream?
Very much so! To adjust the spice level, simply reduce the amount of jalapeño in the guacamole or use milder peppers like bell peppers for flavor without the heat. For the chipotle cream, begin with fewer chipotle peppers and gradually increase to taste. Remember, the more the merrier!