Name: Crispy Crab Shrimp Queso: 10 Deliciously Crunchy Taquitos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked shrimp (finely chopped); 1 cup cooked crab meat (shredded); 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese (shredded); 4 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature); 1 cup queso dip (mild or spicy, your preference); 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped, plus more for garnish); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 10 small flour tortillas (6-inch size); 1/4 cup butter or vegetable oil (for frying, may need more for batch cooking)

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Crispy Crab Shrimp Queso is a delightful appetizer that combines the rich flavors of crab and shrimp in a creamy, cheesy dip. These crispy taquitos are perfect for gatherings, offering a satisfying crunch and a burst of seafood flavor that is sure to impress your guests. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up these delicious taquitos, making them ideal for any occasion. Let’s dive into how to prepare this tasty treat!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Crab Shrimp Queso

This Crispy Crab Shrimp Queso is not just any dip; it’s a culinary delight that combines the best of seafood and cheese. Here are several reasons why you’ll love it:

Perfect for parties and gatherings, ensuring everyone goes home happy.
Quick to prepare in just 35 minutes, making it a weeknight hero!
Utilizes the best ingredients for crab shrimp queso, ensuring a rich flavor.
Offers a balance of crunch and creaminess with every bite.
Easy to customize with your favorite spices for a spicy crab shrimp queso recipe.
Can be served as a dip or in taquito form for versatility.

This dish is part of the Mexican cuisine and adheres to a seafood diet, making it a flavorful option for seafood lovers.

Ingredients for Crispy Crab Shrimp Queso

Gather these items:

1 cup cooked shrimp (finely chopped)
1 cup cooked crab meat (shredded)
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)
4 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
1 cup queso dip (mild or spicy, your preference)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped, plus more for garnish)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
10 small flour tortillas (6-inch size)
1/4 cup butter or vegetable oil (for frying, may need more for batch cooking)

How to Make Crispy Crab Shrimp Queso Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together the chopped shrimp, shredded crab meat, Monterey Jack cheese, softened cream cheese, and queso dip until evenly distributed and creamy.
Step 2: Add the chopped cilantro, garlic powder, and smoked paprika, stirring thoroughly to ensure the seasonings are evenly incorporated throughout the filling.
Step 3: Warm tortillas in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to make them pliable. Place 2-3 tablespoons of filling in the center of each tortilla, being careful not to overfill.
Step 4: Roll each tortilla tightly around the filling and secure with a toothpick through the seam to prevent unrolling during cooking.
Step 5: In a large skillet, heat butter or oil over medium heat until it shimmers or the butter foams, indicating it’s ready for frying.
Step 6: Working in batches of 3-4 taquitos to avoid crowding, place them seam-side down in the hot skillet. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Transfer fried taquitos to a paper towel-lined plate. Let cool for 2-3 minutes, then carefully remove toothpicks.
Step 8: Plate your crispy taquitos, drizzle with warm queso, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Crispy Crab Shrimp Queso

Keep these in mind:

Adjust the spice level of the queso dip to your liking.
Fresh cilantro enhances the flavor; use more for garnish if desired.
Ensure the oil or butter is hot enough for frying for the best crispiness.
For an even crunchier texture, double fry the taquitos by frying them once, letting them rest, and then frying again.

Best Ways to Serve Crispy Crab Shrimp Queso

Serve these delicious taquitos with:

Fresh salsa and guacamole for a flavor-packed experience.
Additional queso dip drizzled on top for extra creaminess.
Freshly chopped avocado and lime wedges for a refreshing twist.

These ideas will elevate your Crispy Seafood Queso experience.

How to Store and Reheat Crispy Crab Shrimp Queso

To store, place any leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. This method preserves the delicious crunch of the taquitos.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Crab Shrimp Queso

What’s the secret to perfect Crispy Crab Shrimp Queso?

The secret lies in using high-quality seafood and ensuring that your oil is hot enough when frying to achieve that perfect crispy texture.

Can I make Crispy Crab Shrimp Queso ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble and fry the taquitos when you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Crispy Crab Shrimp Queso?

Common mistakes include overfilling the taquitos or frying them at too low a temperature, which can lead to soggy taquitos instead of crispy ones.

Variations of Crispy Crab Shrimp Queso You Can Try

Here are a few variations to consider:

Swap in different types of seafood, such as lobster or scallops, for a luxurious twist.
Make a healthier version by baking the taquitos instead of frying them.
Add jalapeños to the filling for a spicy crab shrimp queso experience.
Use whole wheat tortillas for a heartier option.

These variations showcase the adaptability of this easy crab and shrimp queso dip, allowing you to cater to different tastes!

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Creamy Potato Soup for a comforting meal. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, don’t miss our Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies recipe!

For more information on the health benefits of seafood, you can visit Seafood Nutrition.

Crispy Crab Shrimp Queso: 10 Deliciously Crunchy Taquitos

Author: basmer
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 10 taquitos 1x
Diet: Seafood

Print Recipe

Description

Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos deliver a satisfying crunch and burst of seafood flavor, perfect for any gathering and ready in just 35 minutes.

Instructions

In a large bowl, mix together the chopped shrimp, shredded crab meat, Monterey Jack cheese, softened cream cheese, and queso dip until evenly distributed and creamy.
Add the chopped cilantro, garlic powder, and smoked paprika, stirring thoroughly to ensure the seasonings are evenly incorporated throughout the filling.
Warm tortillas in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to make them pliable. Place 2-3 tablespoons of filling in the center of each tortilla, being careful not to overfill.
Roll each tortilla tightly around the filling and secure with a toothpick through the seam to prevent unrolling during cooking.
In a large skillet, heat butter or oil over medium heat until it shimmers or the butter foams, indicating it’s ready for frying.
Working in batches of 3-4 taquitos to avoid crowding, place them seam-side down in the hot skillet. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
Transfer fried taquitos to a paper towel-lined plate. Let cool for 2-3 minutes, then carefully remove toothpicks.
Plate your crispy taquitos, drizzle with warm queso, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.