Surf and Turf Flatbread Pizza

Name: Surf and Turf Flatbread Pizza
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large flatbread or naan; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup cooked beef, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Easy Everyday Meals

I love the combination of flavors in my Surf and Turf Flatbread Pizza! The crispy flatbread crust holds a melty blend of beef and seafood, creating a unique yet delightful pizza experience. I enjoy preparing this dish for gatherings, where everyone can savor the surprisingly delicious pairing of beef and shrimp on top of a cheesy base. It's simple to whip up and always turns out incredibly satisfying, making it a go-to for both casual lunch and special occasions.

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:26:30.876Z

When I first decided to make Surf and Turf Flatbread Pizza, I was intrigued by how well beef and shrimp could pair together. After testing different ingredients, I settled on using thinly sliced steak and succulent shrimp with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. The flavors meld perfectly in the oven, giving each slice a burst of savory goodness that I never get tired of.

I discovered that using a pre-made flatbread not only saves time but also results in a perfectly crisp base for this pizza. The key is to ensure your toppings are evenly distributed, allowing every bite to encompass that delightful surf and turf experience. Trust me, this dish will impress everyone!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A unique twist combining tender beef and juicy shrimp
Quick and easy preparation with minimal cleanup
Crispy, flavorful flatbread as the perfect base

      

Ingredient Insights

The key to a great Surf and Turf Flatbread Pizza lies in the quality of your ingredients. Using fresh shrimp and well-seasoned beef enhances the flavors significantly. If you can't find fresh seafood, frozen shrimp work well; just ensure they're fully thawed and patted dry before using. For the beef, tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye complement the dish's texture and flavor beautifully. Both proteins benefit from a light seasoning of salt and pepper to highlight their natural tastes.

The type of flatbread you choose impacts the final texture of your pizza. I prefer using naan for its thickness and slight chewiness, which holds up against the toppings. However, store-bought flatbreads vary in thickness and size, so adjust cooking time accordingly—thinner flatbreads may bake faster while thicker ones may require a few extra minutes in the oven. A perfectly crispy base will elevate the overall eating experience.

Cooking Techniques

Assembling the pizza is a vital step in maximizing flavor and texture. Start by evenly spreading the mozzarella cheese on the flatbread; this acts as an anchor for the toppings. Layer the beef and shrimp, ensuring an even distribution for balanced bites. Red onion not only adds a sharp flavor but also a colorful aesthetic. To enhance the taste, I suggest letting the toppings sit for a few minutes before baking, allowing the flavors to meld slightly.

Baking is where the magic happens! Preheating your oven is crucial; a hot oven ensures that the cheese melts evenly while the flatbread crisps to perfection. Aim for a bubbling, golden-brown top, generally achieved around the 15-minute mark. If the edges of your flatbread start to darken before the cheese is melted, cover the pizza loosely with foil to avoid burning while ensuring everything cooks through.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious flatbread pizza:

For the Pizza

1 large flatbread or naan
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup cooked beef, thinly sliced
1/2 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling

Feel free to customize the toppings to suit your taste!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your flatbread pizza:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the flatbread gets crispy and the cheese melts perfectly as it bakes.

Assemble the Pizza

On a baking sheet, lay out the flatbread. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across the flatbread, then layer on the sliced beef and shrimp. Add the red onion slices and season with salt and pepper.

Bake

Drizzle a little olive oil over the top before placing the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the flatbread pizza from the oven and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Slice and serve immediately, enjoying the amazing flavors!

Enjoy your homemade surf and turf flatbread pizza!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a dash of garlic powder or red pepper flakes before baking. This pizza is also fantastic with a drizzle of sriracha for those who like a bit of heat.

Serving Suggestions

Surf and Turf Flatbread Pizza shines as a versatile dish. To elevate your serving experience, pair it with a light salad or fresh veggies; this adds a refreshing crunch. Offering a variety of dipping sauces like garlic butter or a spicy aioli can also enhance the flavor profile, allowing guests to personalize their bites. If you're serving a crowd, consider slicing the pizza into smaller pieces for easy sharing—this always encourages seconds!

For a festive twist, feel free to add additional toppings that you love. A sprinkle of feta or cherry tomatoes can add a burst of flavor, while avocado slices post-bake contribute a creamy texture. This recipe is also a fantastic canvas for experimentation—try swapping shrimp for crab or lobster for a special occasion, or incorporate different cheeses like gouda for a smoky touch.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're looking to prep ahead, consider assembling the pizza without baking. Keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, there's no need to bring it to room temperature; just pop it directly into the preheated oven. Alternatively, you can bake it ahead of time, allowing the pizza to cool, then wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. This makes for excellent leftovers or a quick meal later in the week.

Reheating is straightforward, but to maintain the ideal texture, use a toaster oven or a standard oven instead of the microwave. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melty again and the flatbread regains its crispiness. This helps avoid that soggy texture that often comes with reheating leftovers in the microwave.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and peel them before using.

→ What kind of beef should I use?

Thinly sliced steak works best; flank steak or sirloin are great choices.

→ Can I make this pizza ahead of time?

While it's best fresh, you can prepare the toppings ahead and assemble the pizza just before baking.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be gluten-free if you use a gluten-free flatbread.