Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos

 

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• Author: Caroline Jones
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
 
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
 
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 16 tubes 
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Pan-frying
• Cuisine: Tex-Mex
• Diet: Seafood

Ingredients




• 1 lb cooked shrimp, finely chopped
• 1 lb cooked crab meat, shredded
• 2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup queso dip (mild or spicy)
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
•  1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 16 small flour tortillas
• 4 tbsp butter or oil (for frying)




Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine shrimp, crab, Monterey Jack, cream cheese, queso, cilantro, garlic powder, and paprika for a creamy cheesy seafood dream and irresistible fiesta flavor.
2. Place 2–3 tbsp of filling in each tortilla, roll tightly, and secure with a toothpick.
3. Heat butter or oil in a skillet and fry tortillas until golden and crunchy.
4. Remove toothpicks, plate them up, and drizzle warm queso over the top.
5. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve immediately while the cheese is gooey and irresistible.

Notes

• These can be made ahead of time and fried just before serving.
• Adjust the spice level of the queso dip to your preference.
• Serve with additional toppings like jalapeños or avocado for extra flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Crab Shrimp Queso

This Crab Shrimp Queso is not just a cheesy seafood appetizer; it’s a lifesaver for busy days! With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can serve up a dish that feels gourmet without the fuss. The combination of shrimp and crab creates a flavor explosion that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s versatile enough for any occasion, making it a must-have in your recipe arsenal!

Ingredients for Crab Shrimp Queso

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious Crab Shrimp Queso. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cooked shrimp: Finely chopped, these little gems add a sweet, briny flavor that pairs perfectly with crab.
• Cooked crab meat: Shredded, it brings a luxurious touch to the dish, making it feel special.
• Monterey Jack cheese: Shredded, this cheese melts beautifully, creating that gooey texture we all love.
• Cream cheese: Softened, it adds creaminess and richness, making every bite irresistible.
• Queso dip: Choose mild or spicy, depending on your taste. It’s the secret to that cheesy goodness!
• Fresh cilantro: Chopped, it adds a burst of freshness and color, brightening up the dish.
• Garlic powder: A pinch of this brings depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
• Smoked paprika: Just a touch adds a subtle smokiness that elevates the overall taste.
• Flour tortillas: Small ones work best for rolling up the filling into bite-sized treats.
• Butter or oil: For frying, it gives the tortillas that golden, crunchy exterior we crave.

Feel free to get creative! You can swap out the crab for lobster or even use a mix of different cheeses. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using low-fat cream cheese. For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.

How to Make Crab Shrimp Queso

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delightful Crab Shrimp Queso! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a cheesy seafood appetizer that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped shrimp, shredded crab meat, Monterey Jack cheese, and softened cream cheese.

Add in the queso dip, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.

Mix everything together until you have a creamy mixture that looks like a seafood dream.

This filling is the heart of your seafood tortilla roll-ups, so make sure it’s well combined!

Step 2: Assemble the Tortillas

Take a small flour tortilla and place about 2–3 tablespoons of the filling in the center.

Roll the tortilla tightly, making sure to tuck in the sides as you go.

Secure each roll with a toothpick to keep everything in place.

Repeat this process until all your filling is used up.

These creamy queso tortilla bites are starting to take shape!

Step 3: Fry the Tortillas

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add butter or oil.

Once it’s hot, carefully place the rolled tortillas in the skillet.

Fry them until they turn golden brown and crunchy, about 2-3 minutes on each side.

Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

The sizzling sound is music to my ears, and the aroma will have everyone gathering around!

Step 4: Serve with Warm Queso

Once fried, remove the toothpicks and plate your crispy roll-ups.

Drizzle warm queso dip over the top for that extra cheesy goodness.

Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.

Serve immediately while they’re still warm and gooey.

Trust me, these will disappear faster than you can say “Crab Shrimp Queso!”

Tips for Success

• Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save precious minutes.
• Don’t overfill the tortillas; 2–3 tablespoons is just right.
• Keep the heat medium to avoid burning while frying.
• Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
• Serve with extra toppings like jalapeños or avocado for a fun twist!

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining your filling. A sturdy plate can work in a pinch.
• Skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for frying. You can also use a griddle.
• Toothpicks: For securing the tortillas. If you’re out, kitchen twine can be a creative alternative.
• Spatula: To flip the tortillas easily. A pair of tongs works well too!

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the seafood with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a delicious meatless version.
• Cheese Lovers: Mix in some pepper jack cheese for a spicier, cheesier experience.
• Gluten-Free: Use corn tortillas instead of flour to make this dish gluten-free.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like dill or parsley for a unique flavor twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a refreshing margarita or a crisp white wine for a delightful drink combo.
• Serve alongside a zesty salsa or guacamole for added flavor and texture.
• Present on a colorful platter with lime wedges and extra cilantro for a vibrant touch.
• Offer a side of tortilla chips for those who love a crunchy contrast.
• For a complete meal, add a simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this Crab Shrimp Queso ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the tortillas ahead of time. Just fry them right before serving for that crispy texture. It’s a great party seafood snack idea!

Q: What can I serve with this cheesy seafood appetizer?

A: Pair it with zesty salsa, guacamole, or a refreshing margarita. These sides complement the flavors beautifully and enhance your dining experience!

Q: Can I use different seafood in this recipe?

A: Yes! Feel free to swap the crab for lobster or even add scallops. The versatility of this Tex-Mex crab shrimp recipe allows for delicious variations!

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or skillet to maintain that crispy texture.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

A: Yes! Simply use corn tortillas instead of flour, and you’ll have a delightful gluten-free version of these creamy queso tortilla bites!

Final Thoughts

Creating this Crab Shrimp Queso has been a delightful journey, one that brings joy to my kitchen and smiles to my family’s faces. The combination of creamy, cheesy goodness with the fresh seafood is simply irresistible. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a lively gathering with friends, this dish never fails to impress. I love how it transforms ordinary moments into special memories. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and dive into this culinary adventure. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked on this cheesy seafood appetizer for life!