Street-Style Steak and Shrimp Tacos Recipe

If you are craving a burst of vibrant flavors wrapped in a warm tortilla, the Street-Style Steak and Shrimp Tacos Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish brilliantly combines the smoky richness of grilled steak with the succulent sweetness of seasoned shrimp, all brought together by a zesty lime crema and fresh toppings. Whether you’re serving friends or treating yourself, these tacos deliver a fiesta of taste, texture, and color in every bite. Trust me, once you dig in, these tacos will quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to the magic behind this Street-Style Steak and Shrimp Tacos Recipe lies in simple, fresh ingredients that pack serious flavor. Each item plays a special role, from the bold spices that bring heat and smokiness to the juicy proteins, to the creamy, tangy lime crema and crisp garnishes that lend balance and brightness.

• 1 lb flank steak or skirt steak: Choose well-marbled cuts for the richest taste and tender slices after grilling.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the spices cling to the steak and shrimp while adding a silky texture.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds a mild, earthy heat foundational to the taco’s flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon cumin: Offers a warm, nutty undertone that complements the grilled meats beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Imparts savory depth without overpowering the fresh ingredients.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Gives a subtle smoky flavor, perfect for that street-style vibe.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Rounds out the spice blend with a touch of sweetness.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning all components properly.
• Juice of 1 lime: Brightens the marinade and sauces, adding refreshing citrus notes.
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Provides a tender, juicy contrast to the steak’s heartiness.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Creates a creamy base for the lime crema that cools the spice.
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Adds richness and smoothness to the crema.
• 12 small corn tortillas: Serve as the perfect sturdy yet soft vessel for the fillings.
• 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion: Adds a punchy crunch and a pop of color.
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Lends herbaceous brightness that elevates the tacos.
• 1 avocado, sliced: Brings buttery richness and creamy texture.
• Lime wedges: For an extra dash of zesty tang at serving time.

How to Make Street-Style Steak and Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

Start by blending olive oil with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and freshly squeezed lime juice. This mixture is your steak’s flavor passport, infusing every inch with smoky, tangy goodness. Slather this marinade onto your steak and let it rest for at least 30 minutes to soak up those vibrant flavors—longer if you can, up to 2 hours in the fridge, for an even deeper taste experience.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

While the steak marinates, whip up a similar seasoning blend for the shrimp, using olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Toss the shrimp gently in this mixture so each piece is evenly coated. Let the shrimp soak it up for about 10 to 15 minutes—this quick marinade ensures a punchy yet delicate seafood flavor once cooked.

Step 3: Grill the Steak

Next, ignite your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the marinated steak down and sear it for 4 to 5 minutes on each side for a perfect medium-rare, or a bit longer if you prefer it more done. The high heat creates a beautiful char and locks in the juices. After grilling, let the steak rest for 5 minutes; this resting time is key to keeping it tender and juicy before slicing thinly against the grain.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Use the same grill pan or skillet to cook the shrimp. With direct heat, they’ll only need about 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and firm. Being mindful here guarantees plump, succulent shrimp that won’t become rubbery.

Step 5: Prepare the Lime Crema

While your proteins cook, stir together sour cream, mayonnaise, fresh lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Taste and adjust; this creamy sauce will bring a cool, tangy balance to all the smoky, spicy elements in the tacos.

Step 6: Warm the Tortillas

Gently warm the corn tortillas on the grill or in a skillet until they are soft and pliable—approximately 20 to 30 seconds per side. Warming helps bring out their natural corn flavor, making them a perfect handheld base for your steak and shrimp.

Step 7: Assemble Your Tacos

Build your tacos by layering thin slices of grilled steak and a couple of shrimp on each tortilla. Top generously with chopped red onions, fresh cilantro, and creamy avocado slices. Finally, drizzle the lime crema over the top and serve immediately with lime wedges for squeezing that extra kick right before biting.

How to Serve Street-Style Steak and Shrimp Tacos Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishes elevate your tacos beyond just good—they make them memorable. Think finely chopped red onion for crunch and bite, fresh cilantro that adds a fragrant pop, and slices of creamy avocado for silky smoothness. A squeeze of lime juice just before eating ties everything together with a burst of vibrant citrus brightness that cuts through the richness perfectly.

Side Dishes

Want to create a full Mexican-inspired spread? Serve these tacos alongside street corn (elote) with its creamy, cheesy kick, or a simple black bean salad to add earthy notes and a refreshing contrast. A tangy, crunchy cabbage slaw tossed in lime and chili powder can also complement the smoky, succulent proteins beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, set up a taco bar with all the fillings and toppings laid out so everyone can customize their Street-Style Steak and Shrimp Tacos Recipe. Use mini cast iron skillets or colorful plates for serving, and add edible flowers or microgreens for a festive, gourmet touch that will wow your guests and make mealtime feel special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store the sliced steak and cooked shrimp separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Keep the tortillas wrapped in foil or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to maintain their softness. The lime crema should be refrigerated in a sealed jar or container to stay fresh.

Freezing

While cooked steak and shrimp can be frozen, they might lose some texture upon thawing. If you choose to freeze, separate the steak and shrimp into portioned airtight bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the tortillas and lime crema, as they do not freeze well and will affect the quality.

Reheating

Reheat the steak and shrimp gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven covered with foil to prevent drying out. Warm the tortillas separately on the stove or microwave to keep their softness. Add fresh garnishes and crema after reheating to retain that fresh, lively flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?

Absolutely! While flank or skirt steak are great for grilling and slicing thin, you can also use sirloin or ribeye if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness and cut to ensure it stays tender and juicy.

What can I substitute for sour cream in the lime crema?

If you want a dairy-free or lighter option, Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a substitute. It maintains the creamy texture and tang while adding a bit of protein.

Are these tacos spicy?

This recipe has a gentle kick from the chili powder and spices but isn’t overwhelmingly spicy. You can easily adjust the heat by adding extra chili powder or a dash of cayenne pepper to suit your taste.

Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, swap the steak and shrimp with grilled mushrooms, jackfruit, or tofu marinated in the same spice blend. The flavors will still shine, giving you a delicious plant-based alternative.

How do I keep the tortillas from breaking when assembling tacos?

Warming the tortillas until soft and flexible is key to preventing them from cracking. If you’re stacking them, keep them covered in a clean towel or wrapped in foil to maintain moisture and pliability.

Final Thoughts

This Street-Style Steak and Shrimp Tacos Recipe is more than just a meal—it’s an experience bursting with bold flavors, fresh textures, and easy preparation that’s perfect for any occasion. I cannot recommend it enough for those moments when you want something quick to make yet impressive to taste. Gather your ingredients, fire up your grill, and enjoy a taco night that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Street-Style Steak and Shrimp Tacos Recipe

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4.1 from 29 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 tacos 1x

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Description

These Street-Style Steak and Shrimp Tacos combine perfectly grilled flank steak and juicy shrimp seasoned with a bold blend of spices and fresh lime. Served on warm corn tortillas and topped with a creamy lime-infused sauce, fresh cilantro, red onion, and avocado slices, these tacos deliver a vibrant and satisfying meal full of authentic Mexican flavors.

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Ingredients

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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

Toppings and 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)

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Instructions

1. Marinate the Steak: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Rub this seasoning mixture evenly over the flank steak. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to 2 hours, to allow the flavors to penetrate.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: In another bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp in this mixture until fully coated. Let them marinate for 10 to 15 minutes at room temperature.
3. Preheat Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking.
4. Grill the Steak: Place the marinated steak on the hot grill. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness or 6 to 7 minutes per side for medium. Once cooked, remove from grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
5. Slice the Steak: After resting, slice the steak thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
6. Cook the Shrimp: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.
7. Prepare the Lime Crema: In a small bowl, mix together sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and adjust seasoning to taste.
8. Warm the Tortillas: Place the corn tortillas on the grill or in a skillet and warm them for 20 to 30 seconds on each side until they are soft and pliable.
9. Assemble the Tacos: On each warm tortilla, add several slices of grilled steak and a couple of shrimp. Top with chopped red onion, fresh cilantro, and avocado slices.
10. Finish and Serve: Drizzle the lime crema over the toppings on each taco. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for added zest and flavor.

Notes

• Marinating the steak for longer enhances the flavor and tenderness.
• You can substitute the flank steak with skirt steak or sirloin if preferred.
• For spicier tacos, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasonings.
• To keep tortillas warm longer, wrap them in a clean kitchen towel until serving.
• Leftover steak and shrimp can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican