Savory Creole Steak and Shrimp Quesadillas

Indulge in the mouthwatering fusion of flavors with these Creole Steak Shrimp Quesadillas! A delightful marriage of succulent ribeye steak, plump shrimp, and vibrant peppers, all seasoned to perfection with a tantalizing blend of Creole spices. These quesadillas are not just a meal; they are a celebration on a plate, guaranteed to elevate any gathering to a special occasion.

From the first bite, these Creole steak and shrimp quesadillas will have your taste buds dancing with joy. The smoky notes of paprika, the kick of Creole seasoning, and the creamy signature sauce create a symphony of flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Whether it’s a casual family game night or a festive weeknight dinner, these quesadillas are sure to steal the show and become a favorite among your loved ones.

Transport yourself to the Louisiana Gulf Coast with each bite of these quesadillas, paying homage to the rich culinary heritage of Creole cuisine. Embrace the boldness of the flavors, the tenderness of the ribeye, and the sheer indulgence of melted cheese in every bite. So, fire up your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the magic of Creole Steak Shrimp Quesadillas like never before!

Quick Benefits

• Bold Flavors: Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, and signature sauce create a robust and celebratory flavor profile.
• Versatile: Swap ingredients like steak cuts, seafood choices, or cheese blends to suit preferences or dietary needs.
• Easy to Make: Requires simple techniques, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
• Tender and Juicy: Ribeye steak ensures each bite is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Creole Steak and Shrimp Quesadillas Recipe

• Bold and Robust Flavors: This recipe combines seasoned steak, shrimp, and colorful peppers with a creamy Creole sauce, creating a burst of flavors in every bite.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Elevate your weekend treat or weeknight dinner with these quesadillas that feel like a celebration, making them ideal for gatherings or family game nights.
• Memorable and Addictive: Once you try these quesadillas, you’ll be hooked by the smoky, spicy, and creamy elements that make them a star dish.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients like the type of steak or cheese, or even make dairy-free versions, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your preferences.
• Leftovers Are Delicious: These quesadillas can be stored and reheated easily, making them a convenient option for meal prep or quick leftovers that retain their deliciousness.
• Culinary Tribute to Creole Cuisine: Drawing from French, Spanish, and African influences, this dish pays homage to Louisiana Gulf Coast flavors with a blend of bold Creole seasoning and seafood and steak combination.
• Juicy and Tender: The ribeye steak used in this recipe ensures juicy and tender bites in every quesadilla, adding a luxurious element to the dish.
• Easy to Make: Despite the bold flavors, this recipe is straightforward to follow and cook, resulting in a delicious meal without complex techniques.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Whether for game day spreads or festive weeknight dinners, these quesadillas are sure to impress your guests with their bold flavors and colorful presentation.

Ingredients for Savory Creole Steak and Shrimp Quesadillas

Quesadilla Base

• 15–30 ml avocado oil
• 2 red bell peppers, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• Shredded Mexican cheese blend
• 1 yellow onion, sliced
• 680 grams shrimp, peeled, deveined, quartered
• 1 poblano pepper, chopped
• 14-inch wheat flour tortillas
• 2 ribeye steaks, cut into 0.6 cm cubes

Creole Rub

• 2 tablespoons Creole seasoning (such as Tony’s)
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons onion powder

Creole Sauce

• 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning (such as Tony’s)
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 240 ml mayonnaise
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder

Pro Tips for Savory Creole Steak and Shrimp Quesadillas

Pro Tips:

For tender and juicy quesadillas, cook the ribeye steak cubes to medium-rare before assembling them into the quesadillas. This will prevent the steak from becoming tough during the final cooking process.

To enhance the smoky flavor profile, consider grilling the shrimp before incorporating them into the quesadillas. Grilling adds a delicious charred taste that complements the Creole seasoning and smoked paprika.

When making the Creole sauce, allow the flavors to meld together by preparing it ahead of time and storing it in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. This will intensify the taste and make the sauce even more flavorful when drizzled over the quesadillas before serving.

How to Make Savory Creole Steak and Shrimp Quesadillas

Step 1: Prepare Creole Components

Mix the Creole rub and Creole sauce in separate bowls. Season steak and shrimp with the rub and reserve the sauce for filling and dipping.

Step 2: Season and Marinate Proteins

Coat cubed ribeye and quartered shrimp separately with avocado oil and Creole rub. Marinate in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare Vegetables

Finely chop the poblano, red bell peppers, and yellow bell pepper, and thinly slice the yellow onion. Set aside for cooking.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

Preheat a griddle or large skillet over medium heat with avocado oil. Cook vegetables seasoned with Creole rub for 6–8 minutes until tender. Keep warm after removing from heat.

Step 5: Cook Steak

In the same griddle or skillet, cook marinated steak over medium heat, turning frequently, until evenly browned, for 6-8 minutes. Set aside.

Step 6: Cook Shrimp

Cook shrimp on griddle for 4-5 minutes, tossing every minute until pink and opaque. Combine with steak and vegetables.

Step 7: Combine Filling

Combine cooked steak, shrimp, and vegetables on the griddle and cook for 2 minutes to meld flavors.

Step 8: Fill and Fold Quesadillas

Place a 14-inch tortilla on the griddle and toast for 1 minute. Flip the tortilla, sprinkle with cheese, add filling, drizzle with Creole sauce, then fold into a half-moon shape.

Step 9: Toast Quesadillas

Toast folded quesadillas for approximately 2 minutes on each side until golden brown and cheese is melted. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.

Step 10: Serve

Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve hot with additional Creole sauce for dipping.

Storage Tips

After making the Creole steak and shrimp quesadillas, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. These quesadillas will keep well for up to three days. To reheat, simply toast them on a dry skillet until they are warmed through and have regained their crispiness. The Creole sauce can be stored separately and used for dipping whenever you’re craving more of that creamy goodness.

The combination of bold flavors in this dish, from the seasoned meats to the colorful peppers and signature sauce, make it a true crowd-pleaser. Feel free to customize the recipe by swapping ribeye for sirloin or skirt steak, using all shrimp or adding crawfish for a Creole twist, or opting for a dairy-free version with plant-based cheese blends. Serve these flavorful quesadillas with a fresh green salad, kettle chips for crunch, or as a main dish for game day spreads or festive weeknight dinners, adding a squeeze of extra lemon for a refreshing touch. Enjoy savoring the essence of Creole cuisine with every bite of these delicious quesadillas!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a leaner cut of meat, you can substitute ribeye with sirloin or skirt steak in this recipe. These cuts will still provide great flavor while being slightly lower in fat content.

For those looking to modify the seafood element, you can use all shrimp or even add some crawfish to give the quesadillas a true Creole twist. This substitution can cater to personal tastes or dietary preferences while still maintaining the essence of the dish.

If you need a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based cheese blend that melts nicely. This alternative allows individuals with dairy sensitivities to still enjoy the creamy texture and cheesy goodness of the quesadillas.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Creole steak and shrimp quesadillas as a fun and flavorful appetizer for your next gathering by slicing them into bite-sized portions. Arrange them on a large platter with a side of the creamy Creole sauce for dipping, and watch them disappear in no time!

For a creative twist, turn these quesadillas into a build-your-own quesadilla bar at your next party. Set out bowls of additional toppings like sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, pickled jalapeños, and fresh cilantro for guests to customize their quesadillas to their liking. This interactive setup adds a fun element to your event and allows everyone to enjoy a personalized culinary experience.

FAQs for Savory Creole Steak and Shrimp Quesadillas

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Mexican blend?

Yes, any good melting cheese such as Monterey Jack or cheddar works well in place of Mexican blend.

Can I substitute shrimp with another protein?

You can replace shrimp with chicken or more steak, or add mushrooms for a seafood-free version.

What is the best way to reheat leftover quesadillas?

To reheat leftover quesadillas, simply toast them on a dry skillet until warmed through and crisp again.

How can I prevent the quesadillas from burning while cooking?

Cook over medium heat, adjusting as needed to ensure even browning without burning.

Conclusion

As you wrap up your culinary adventure creating these mouthwatering Creole Steak Shrimp Quesadillas, remember the joy and warmth they bring to your table. The bold flavors of the seasoned meats, colorful peppers, and creamy signature sauce truly make every bite a celebration of flavors. Whether you’re preparing these quesadillas for a cozy weeknight dinner or a lively gathering with loved ones, they are sure to impress and satisfy.

Embrace the spirit of Creole cuisine and the Louisiana Gulf Coast with each bite of these delicious quesadillas. The blend of smoky, spicy, and creamy elements truly captures the essence of this vibrant food culture. So, keep exploring, experimenting, and enjoying the culinary journey with these Creole Steak Shrimp Quesadillas at the heart of it all. Cheers to good food and great company!