These Surf and Turf Nachos are a mouthwatering combination of crispy tortilla chips, sizzling steak, juicy shrimp, and melty cheese, all topped with fresh guacamole, pico de gallo, and zesty lime. Perfect for game nights, weekend gatherings, or just when you’re craving something indulgent, this recipe brings the ultimate balance of flavors and textures to your table. What makes these nachos even better is how easy they are to customize! Swap out the steak for chicken, add extra jalapeños for a spicy kick, or drizzle with a smoky chipotle sauce for even more bold flavor. No matter how you make them, these nachos will be the star of any party. So grab a plate, dig in, and enjoy!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb ribeye steak, thinly sliced
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½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 bag tortilla chips
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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½ cup Monterey Jack cheese
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¼ cup sour cream
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½ cup guacamole
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½ cup pico de gallo
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¼ cup jalapeños, sliced
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¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
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1 lime, cut into wedges
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Season steak with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, then remove and set aside.
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In the same pan, cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
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Spread tortilla chips evenly on a baking sheet. Sprinkle shredded cheeses over the chips.
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Bake for 5-7 minutes until cheese melts.
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Remove from oven and top with sliced steak, shrimp, jalapeños, and pico de gallo.
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Drizzle sour cream and guacamole over the nachos. Garnish with cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 550 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Surf and Turf Nachos: The Ultimate Fusion Snack
Nachos are a classic crowd-pleaser, but when you elevate them with steak and shrimp, they become a true gourmet experience. Surf and Turf Nachos combine the rich, smoky flavors of grilled steak with the delicate, buttery taste of shrimp, all piled high on crispy tortilla chips with gooey melted cheese and fresh toppings. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a special game-day snack, or just indulging in a flavorful meal, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
What Makes Surf and Turf Nachos Special?
A Perfect Balance of Flavors
The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between its components. The steak offers a deep, umami-rich flavor with a slight smokiness, while the shrimp adds a light, oceanic sweetness. When combined with sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, creamy guacamole, and tangy pico de gallo, each bite is an explosion of taste and texture.
A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion
Surf and Turf Nachos are incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a filling main course or a shareable appetizer, they fit the bill. You can customize them to suit dietary preferences by swapping proteins, adjusting spice levels, or adding extra veggies. Plus, they’re perfect for casual get-togethers, game nights, or festive celebrations.
A Quick and Easy Meal
Despite their gourmet appeal, Surf and Turf Nachos are surprisingly easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can whip up a delicious batch in under 30 minutes. That means more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
Tips for Making the Best Surf and Turf Nachos
Choosing the Right Steak
For the best results, opt for a high-quality cut like ribeye, skirt steak, or sirloin. These cuts have a good balance of marbling and tenderness, making them ideal for quick searing. Be sure to slice the steak thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness.
Cooking Shrimp Perfectly
Shrimp cook incredibly fast, so it’s important to watch them closely. Overcooking can make them rubbery, while undercooking leaves them unsafe to eat. A quick sear in a hot pan for 2-3 minutes per side ensures they remain juicy and flavorful.
Getting the Cheese Just Right
The key to irresistibly cheesy nachos is using a combination of cheeses. Cheddar provides a sharp, classic flavor, while Monterey Jack melts beautifully, creating that perfect stretchy texture. If you want an extra creamy finish, consider adding a drizzle of nacho cheese sauce.
Adding Toppings for Maximum Flavor
Toppings are what bring nachos to life. Fresh ingredients like pico de gallo, guacamole, jalapeños, and chopped cilantro enhance the dish with bursts of flavor and color. A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds the perfect citrusy finish.
Customization Ideas
Make It Spicier
If you love heat, there are plenty of ways to spice up your Surf and Turf Nachos. Add extra jalapeños, drizzle on some hot sauce, or sprinkle in a bit of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Swap Proteins
While steak and shrimp are a winning combination, you can easily switch up the proteins to suit your taste. Try grilled chicken, chorizo, or even crispy bacon for a different take on this delicious dish.
Vegetarian Twist
For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and load up on black beans, sautéed mushrooms, and roasted bell peppers. The result is just as satisfying and packed with flavor.
Make It Healthier
If you’re looking for a lighter version, try using baked tortilla chips instead of fried, reduce the amount of cheese, or substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream. You can also add extra veggies like diced bell peppers, red onions, or shredded lettuce for a fresh crunch.
Why You Should Try Surf and Turf Nachos
- A Unique Twist on a Classic Dish – Traditional nachos are great, but adding steak and shrimp takes them to the next level.
- Perfect for Sharing – Whether it’s a party or a cozy family dinner, this dish is great for serving a crowd.
- Quick and Easy – With minimal prep and cooking time, it’s an ideal dish for busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers.
- Customizable to Your Taste – From protein choices to spice levels, you can make this dish exactly how you like it.
Conclusion:
Surf and Turf Nachos bring together the best of land and sea in a crispy, cheesy, and flavor-packed dish. The contrast of tender steak and juicy shrimp, combined with gooey melted cheese and fresh toppings, makes this a meal worth savoring. Whether you’re making them for a casual night in or serving them as a show-stopping party dish, these nachos are guaranteed to be a hit. Try them out, customize them to your liking, and enjoy a gourmet experience right at home!