Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos You’ll Love to Make

Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos are a delightful treat that elevates your snacking game to a whole new level! Imagine the rich flavors of fresh crab and shrimp wrapped in a perfectly crispy tortilla. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight, featuring golden-brown taquitos that are sure to impress. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or even as a fun weeknight dinner, they come together in a snap!

As you take a bite, you will experience the crunch of the tortilla, the creamy queso filling, and the luscious seafood flavors melding together. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving something special for dinner, this recipe guarantees satisfaction. Let’s dive into the steps needed to make these scrumptious taquitos!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Fresh Ingredients: Use quality, fresh seafood for the best flavor.
2. Ease of Preparation: Simple steps make it easy to whip up.
3. Nutrition: Packed with protein and wholesome ingredients.
4. Versatility: Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main course.
5. Presentation: Beautifully golden and inviting, great for sharing.

You’ll want to make these again and again!

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total time: 30 minutes
• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 15 minutes

Note that times may vary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, crab meat, Monterey Jack cheese, cream cheese, queso dip, cilantro, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are nicely blended together.
3. Place a generous spoonful of the mixture onto each tortilla.
4. Roll the tortillas tightly around the filling.
5. Heat butter or oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
6. Carefully add the rolled taquitos to the hot pan, seam-side down.
7. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
8. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels.
9. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.

How to Serve

1. Presentation: Plate taquitos in a circle with a dollop of sour cream in the center.
2. Accompaniments: Serve with salsa, guacamole, or extra queso dip.
3. Portions: Cut each taquito in half for bite-sized pieces.
4. Beverage Pairing: Pair with a refreshing margarita or iced tea.

Enjoy these taquitos at your next gathering!

Additional Tips

• For flavor enhancement, add a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
• Customize with your favorite seafood or different cheeses.
• Serve with a sprinkle of lime juice for a zesty touch.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Shrimp Taquitos: Include diced jalapeños for some heat.
2. Veggie Queso Twists: Swap seafood for sautéed veggies like bell peppers and onions.
3. Oven-Baked Taquitos: Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes for a healthier option.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Special Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Frying pan
• Spatula
• Serving platter
• Paper towels

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it properly before cooking to maintain texture.

2. Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
You can use gluten-free tortillas to make them safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

3. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the taquitos, and store them in the refrigerator for a day or in the freezer for longer.

4. Can I customize the filling?
Definitely! Feel free to add other seafood or even beans for a vegetarian option.

5. What’s the best cooking method?
Frying gives the best crispiness, but you can also bake them for a healthier version.

Conclusion

Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos offer a wonderful combination of flavors and textures that you’ll truly love. They are not only satisfying but also perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night at home. Grab your ingredients and get ready to impress family and friends with this delightful dish!

Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos

Delicious taquitos filled with fresh crab, shrimp, and creamy queso, perfect for any gathering!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 8 taquitos

Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Snack

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Filling ingredients

• 1 cup cooked shrimp, finely chopped Ensure shrimp is cooked and chopped finely.
• 1 cup cooked crab meat, shredded Use fresh or high-quality canned crab meat.
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded Shred fresh cheese for optimal melting.
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened Let it soften to room temperature for easy mixing.
• 1 cup queso dip (mild or spicy) Choose queso dip according to desired spice level.
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped Chop finely for even distribution.
• 1 tsp garlic powder Adjust quantity based on flavor preference.
• 1 tsp smoked paprika Adds a smoky flavor profile.

For frying

• 8 small flour tortillas Alternatively, use gluten-free tortillas if necessary.
• 1/4 cup butter or oil Use for frying until crispy.

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, crab meat, Monterey Jack cheese, cream cheese, queso dip, cilantro, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are nicely blended together.
3. Place a generous spoonful of the mixture onto each tortilla.
4. Roll the tortillas tightly around the filling.

Cooking

1. Heat butter or oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
2. Carefully add the rolled taquitos to the hot pan, seam-side down.
3. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
4. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels.

Notes

Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces. Customize with your choice of seafood or toppings for variety.