Surf and Turf Burritos combine the rich, savory flavors of steak and shrimp wrapped up in a warm flour tortilla, creating the ultimate fusion of land and sea in a delicious, handheld meal. This dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures: tender steak, succulent shrimp, creamy guacamole or avocado, tangy pico de gallo, and a touch of sour cream. The warm, crispy burrito provides the perfect vessel for all these ingredients, making it an ideal choice for a casual dinner or a hearty meal to enjoy with friends and family. Whether you’re craving something bold and flavorful or looking for a crowd-pleaser, these Surf and Turf Burritos are sure to satisfy your hunger.
Ingredients
For the Surf and Turf Filling:
- 1/2 lb steak (ribeye or sirloin), thinly sliced
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Juice of 1 lime
For the Burrito Assembly:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup cooked white or Mexican rice
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup guacamole or sliced avocado
- 1/2 cup pico de gallo or diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
1. Prepare the Surf and Turf Filling:
Start by seasoning both the steak and shrimp. In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasoning mix evenly over the steak slices and shrimp.
Next, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak slices and cook them for 2-3 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. For a tender steak, aim for medium-rare to medium, but adjust the cooking time based on your preference. Once the steak is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and cook the seasoned shrimp for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, squeeze the juice of 1 lime over the shrimp and steak to add a fresh, tangy flavor. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside with the steak.
2. Assemble the Burritos:
Now it’s time to assemble your Surf and Turf Burritos! Lay out the 4 large flour tortillas on a flat surface. Begin by adding a portion of cooked rice to the center of each tortilla. Follow with a generous amount of the cooked steak and shrimp, ensuring the filling is evenly distributed.
Next, add the finishing touches: sprinkle on some shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, spoon on a dollop of guacamole or layer with sliced avocado, and top with pico de gallo or diced tomatoes. For an extra layer of flavor, add a little sour cream on top.
3. Roll and Serve:
Once all the ingredients are layered, fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll it tightly from the bottom to form a burrito. Make sure to tuck in the sides as you roll to keep the filling secure. If you prefer a crispier texture, you can take the burrito one step further.
4. Optional Toasting:
To make the burrito extra crispy, heat a clean skillet over medium heat. Place the burrito seam side down in the skillet and toast it for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it’s golden and crispy. This step adds a satisfying crunch to the burrito, enhancing the texture and flavor.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once your burrito is ready, slice it in half for easier serving, and garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and a hint of freshness. Serve immediately while the filling is warm, and enjoy the delightful combination of surf and turf in every bite!
Cooking Tips
- Steak Choice: When choosing the steak for this recipe, opt for cuts that are tender and flavorful, such as ribeye or sirloin. These cuts are perfect for quick cooking and will provide a juicy, tender bite in your burrito.
- Shrimp: Make sure the shrimp are peeled and deveined before cooking. If you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw them thoroughly before cooking to prevent them from releasing excess water into the skillet.
- Rice: For a more flavorful twist, you can use Mexican rice instead of plain white rice. You can cook it with some tomato paste, chicken broth, and spices to enhance the overall flavor profile of the burrito.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar and Monterey Jack are great choices for this burrito, you can also experiment with other types of cheese like pepper jack for a spicier kick or queso fresco for a milder, crumbly texture.
- Guacamole vs. Avocado: If you prefer guacamole for its creamy texture and extra flavor, make sure to use a well-seasoned version. Alternatively, you can use freshly sliced avocado for a simpler, lighter taste.
Substitutions and Variations
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, replace the steak and shrimp with grilled portobello mushrooms and black beans for a hearty, satisfying filling. The mushrooms provide a meaty texture, while the beans add a rich, savory flavor.
- Different Proteins: If you prefer, you can swap the steak and shrimp for other proteins, like chicken or fish. Grilled chicken breast or grilled fish fillets (such as tilapia or mahi-mahi) are great options for a slightly lighter variation.
- Spicy Kick: If you like your burrito with a bit more heat, add some jalapeños, sriracha sauce, or chipotle mayo inside the burrito or on top as a garnish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the steak and shrimp filling ahead of time. Cook the steak and shrimp, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to assemble the burritos, simply reheat the filling in a skillet before adding it to the tortillas.
Can I freeze these burritos?
Yes, these burritos can be frozen! After assembling them, wrap each burrito tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, unwrap and heat in the microwave or toast in a skillet until heated through and crispy.
How do I make the rice more flavorful?
To add more flavor to your rice, cook it with onions, garlic, and tomato paste. You can also substitute chicken broth for water to infuse the rice with more depth. For extra color and flavor, stir in some chopped cilantro or lime zest after cooking.
Nutritional Information (Per Burrito)
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 900mg
Conclusion
These Surf and Turf Burritos bring together the perfect combination of flavors from both land and sea, making them an ideal meal for any occasion. With tender steak, succulent shrimp, creamy guacamole or avocado, and all the fresh toppings, each bite offers a satisfying blend of textures and tastes. The crispy toasted exterior adds an extra layer of indulgence, making these burritos irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a delicious dinner, these burritos are sure to impress. Enjoy them with your favorite sides and a refreshing drink, and relish in the perfect harmony of surf and turf!