Creole Steak Shrimp Quesadillas are a bold, spicy twist on a Tex-Mex favorite. Tender strips of steak and juicy shrimp are seasoned with Creole spices, sautéed with peppers and onions, then layered with melted cheese inside a crispy golden tortilla. It’s a fusion of flavor that I love making when I want something indulgent, fast, and totally satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how these quesadillas are packed with flavor, texture, and just the right amount of kick. The steak and shrimp combo feels rich and hearty, while the Creole seasoning adds a smoky, spicy edge that makes them anything but ordinary. They’re perfect for dinner, game day, or even a fun appetizer. Plus, they’re quick to make and super customizable.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Steak (sirloin or flank), thinly sliced
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Shrimp, peeled and deveined
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Creole seasoning
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Olive oil or butter
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Onion, thinly sliced
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Bell pepper, sliced (any color)
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Garlic, minced
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Shredded cheese (cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend)
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Large flour tortillas
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Optional: hot sauce, green onions, sour cream, or salsa for serving
Directions
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I season the steak and shrimp generously with Creole seasoning and set aside.
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In a skillet over medium-high heat, I add a bit of olive oil and cook the steak slices until browned and cooked through. I remove them and set them aside.
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In the same pan, I sauté the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. I remove them and add them to the steak.
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I add a little more oil to the skillet and cook the onions and bell peppers until soft and slightly caramelized, then mix them with the cooked meat.
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I wipe out the skillet, then place a tortilla in the pan over medium heat. I layer half the tortilla with shredded cheese, then add a generous amount of the steak, shrimp, and veggie mix, followed by more cheese.
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I fold the tortilla over and cook until golden and crispy on both sides, flipping once—about 2–3 minutes per side.
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I repeat with the remaining ingredients, then slice and serve hot with dipping sauces or toppings.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 large quesadillas (or 8 halves). It takes around 15 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so I can have these on the table in under 40 minutes.
Variations
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I add jalapeños or Cajun hot sauce for extra heat.
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Sometimes I use Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder cheese pull.
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For a smoky twist, I add a bit of chipotle powder to the seasoning.
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I’ve also made these using blackened salmon or chicken instead of steak.
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To lighten them up, I use whole wheat tortillas and skip the extra cheese.
storage/reheating
I store leftover quesadillas wrapped in foil or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm them in a skillet or oven until crispy again—microwaving works too but softens the tortilla. I don’t recommend freezing since the shrimp and tortillas can change texture.
FAQs
What kind of steak works best?
I usually use flank or sirloin because they’re flavorful and cook quickly. I slice them thinly across the grain for tenderness.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, I thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking to avoid excess moisture.
What’s in Creole seasoning?
It usually includes paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and pepper. I use a store-bought blend or make my own for control over the spice level.
Can I bake these instead of pan-frying?
Yes, I place the assembled quesadillas on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What’s the best dipping sauce for these?
I love serving them with sour cream, spicy ranch, salsa, or a creamy Creole-style remoulade for an extra kick.
Conclusion
Creole Steak Shrimp Quesadillas are one of my go-to recipes when I want bold flavor and a little indulgence all in one bite. With melty cheese, spiced meat and shrimp, and crispy tortillas, they’re everything I love about Southern and Mexican cooking blended into one delicious dish. Whether I’m entertaining or just craving something spicy and cheesy, these quesadillas always deliver.
