Crab Shrimp Queso Recipe

Introduction

Crab Shrimp Queso is a deliciously creamy and cheesy seafood treat that brings together tender shrimp and crab with a flavorful queso dip. These rolled tortillas make a perfect appetizer or snack that’s crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, shredded crab, Monterey Jack cheese, cream cheese, queso dip, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix until well blended and creamy.
2. Step 2: Place 2 to 3 tablespoons of the seafood mixture in the center of each tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and secure it with a toothpick.
3. Step 3: Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the rolled tortillas until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 2 to 3 minutes per side.
4. Step 4: Remove the toothpicks carefully, plate the crispy rolls, and drizzle warm queso dip over the top.
5. Step 5: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately while the cheese is warm and gooey.

Tips & Variations

• For extra spice, use a spicy queso dip or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling.
• Try swapping Monterey Jack for pepper jack cheese to add a mild kick.
• If you prefer baking, place the rolled tortillas on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes instead of frying.
• Serve with a squeeze of lime or a side of fresh salsa for added brightness.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to keep the exterior crispy. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the tortillas soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp and crab meat?

Yes, just be sure to fully thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

You can assemble the filled tortillas ahead and keep them refrigerated. Fry just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Crab Shrimp Queso Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 113 reviews

Crab Shrimp Queso is a delicious and creamy seafood-filled appetizer featuring a blend of cooked shrimp, crab meat, Monterey Jack cheese, and queso dip wrapped in small flour tortillas, fried to golden perfection and topped with warm queso and fresh cilantro. Perfect for parties or a savory snack, this easy-to-make dish combines rich flavors and a crunchy texture for an irresistible bite.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings (8 rolled tortillas) 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Mexican-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Seafood Filling

• 1/2 lb cooked shrimp, finely chopped
• 1/2 lb cooked crab meat, shredded

Cheese Mixture

• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup queso dip (mild or spicy)
• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika

For Wrapping and Frying

• 8 small flour tortillas
• 2 tbsp butter or oil (for frying)

Instructions

1. Prepare Filling: In a bowl, combine the finely chopped cooked shrimp, shredded crab meat, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, softened cream cheese, queso dip, chopped fresh cilantro, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly blended into a creamy, flavorful seafood filling.
2. Fill Tortillas: Place approximately 2 to 3 tablespoons of the prepared filling onto each small flour tortilla. Roll each tortilla tightly around the filling and secure the roll with a toothpick to keep it intact during cooking.
3. Fry the Rolls: Heat the butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in the hot skillet. Fry them until they turn golden brown and crunchy on all sides, turning as needed. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes per side.
4. Serve: Remove the fried rolls from the skillet and discard the toothpicks. Arrange them on a serving plate, drizzle warm queso dip over the top, sprinkle with additional fresh cilantro, and serve immediately while the cheese is gooey and the rolls are crispy.

Notes

• Ensure the seafood is fully cooked before mixing to avoid food safety risks.
• You can adjust the spice level of the queso dip to your preference (mild or spicy).
• Use small tortillas to create manageable appetizer-sized portions.
• To keep the rolls crispy, serve immediately after frying.
• For a healthier option, try baking the rolled tortillas instead of frying.

Keywords: Crab Shrimp Queso, seafood appetizer, fried tortillas, creamy seafood dip, Mexican appetizer, party food, finger food