If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing snack that combines the delicious flavors of seafood and gooey cheese, look no further than these Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos. These delightful taquitos are perfect for parties, game days, or any casual get-together. With a crispy exterior and a savory filling, they are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Let’s dive into this easy and enticing recipe!

Ingredients

• For the Filling:
  • 8 ounces lump crab meat, drained. Opt for pasteurized crab for the best flavor and texture. This ensures a fresher taste and helps avoid any potential contaminants.
  • 8 ounces cooked shrimp, chopped. Fresh shrimp is recommended, but you can use pre-cooked if pressed for time. Make sure the shrimp are of high quality, as they are a key flavor component.
  • 1 cup queso fresco or cream cheese, softened. Both options bring a creamy richness, but queso fresco provides a slightly tangy flavor. If you prefer a richer taste, cream cheese works exceptionally well!
  • 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded. This cheese adds a wonderful meltiness; feel free to use pepper jack for added heat. The cheese choice is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and flavor.
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped. Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbal note that balances the richness. For those who might not enjoy cilantro, parsley can be a mild substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice. Freshly squeezed lime juice enhances the overall flavor profile and adds acidity. Bottled lime juice can be a convenient alternative, but fresh is always preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder. This adds a subtle depth of flavor without the harshness of fresh garlic. Fresh minced garlic can be used for a bolder taste if desired.
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder. Adjust based on your heat preference; it provides warmth without overwhelming the dish, making it suitable for a wider audience.
  • Salt and pepper to taste. Use kosher salt for a more balanced seasoning. Proper seasoning will elevate all the flavors in the filling.
• For the Taquitos:
  • 10-12 corn tortillas. Choose smaller tortillas for bite-sized taquitos or larger ones for a more substantial snack. Make sure to select high-quality tortillas to avoid tearing during assembly.
  • Cooking spray or vegetable oil for frying. If frying, using a neutral oil like canola or corn oil ensures the flavor of the filling shines through. For a healthier option, consider an air fryer to get that crispy texture without excessive oil.
• For Topping (optional):
  • Chopped fresh cilantro. A sprinkle on top adds a pop of color and freshness. This also enhances the visual appeal of your dish.
  • Avocado slices. Creamy avocado enhances the overall dish and provides a satisfying texture contrast. For a twist, consider making guacamole to drizzle on top.
  • Crema or sour cream. Both add a tangy creaminess that complements the savory taquitos perfectly. They also help to balance the spices in the filling.
  • Fresh salsa. A pico de gallo or mango salsa offers brightness and acidity, elevating the entire dish. The freshness of the salsa can complement the richness of the taquitos beautifully.

Steps / Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lump crab meat, chopped shrimp, softened queso fresco or cream cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, chopped cilantro, lime juice, garlic powder, chili powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Ensure that the seafood is evenly distributed to avoid clumps of filling. This step is vital for a uniform flavor in every bite.
2. Soften the Tortillas: To prevent the corn tortillas from cracking, warm them in a microwave or on a skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This step will make them pliable and easier to roll. If using a microwave, wrap the tortillas in a damp paper towel to keep them moist. Softening the tortillas also aids in achieving that perfect crispy texture during cooking.
3. Assemble the Taquitos: Take one warmed tortilla and spoon about 2 tablespoons of the filling onto the center. Roll it tightly, folding in the sides as you go to ensure the filling stays inside. Repeat this process until all the filling is used up, placing each taquito seam-side down on a plate or tray. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause them to burst during cooking.
4. Prepare for Cooking: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If you prefer frying, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). To test the oil, drop a small piece of tortilla in; it should sizzle upon contact. This ensures the oil is hot enough for a crispy finish.
5. Bake or Fry the Taquitos: Place the rolled taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray them lightly with cooking spray for extra crispness. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through for even browning. If frying, carefully add the taquitos in batches, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side until crisp and golden brown. Be cautious as they can splatter; maintaining a safe distance is key.
6. Cool and Serve: Once cooked, allow the taquitos to cool for a couple of minutes on a wire rack to maintain their crispness. Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro, avocado slices, crema, or fresh salsa as desired. The contrast of the textures and flavors will make your taquitos irresistible! These toppings not only enhance flavor but also add visual appeal.

Tips & Tricks

• Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality seafood for the best flavor. Fresh or frozen shrimp and lump crab meat are ideal. If using canned crab, look for brands that are packed in water rather than oil for a cleaner taste. Your ingredients dictate the overall success of the dish.
• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the filling a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and assemble the taquitos just before baking or frying to ensure maximum freshness. This can save you time on busy days while still allowing for a delicious meal.
• Storage: Leftover taquitos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. You can also enjoy them cold in salads or as a snack! This versatility makes them a great option for meal prep.
• Avoid Soggy Taquitos: Make sure to drain any excess moisture from the crab and shrimp before mixing them with the other ingredients. Overly wet filling can cause the tortillas to become soggy, ruining the crispy texture. Additionally, serve immediately after cooking for the best textural experience.

Variations

• Spicy Option: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce to enhance the heat. This will cater to those who enjoy an extra kick in their snacks.
• Vegetarian Twist: Substitute the crab and shrimp with black beans and corn for a delightful vegetarian version. Add diced bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor. This variation allows for inclusivity for non-seafood eaters while retaining delicious flavors.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure you use gluten-free corn tortillas to make this dish gluten-free. Check labels carefully, as some brands may contain gluten. This small adjustment can make your taquitos accessible to a wider audience.

Serving Suggestions

These Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos are perfect for serving with a variety of accompaniments. Pair them with a zesty avocado lime dip or a refreshing mango salsa. They also go well with a side of crunchy tortilla chips and a creamy cheesy crab dip that beautifully complements the seafood flavors. For beverages, consider serving with a light beer, margaritas, or a fresh lime soda to elevate the flavors. This combination will make your gathering truly memorable! The burst of flavors from your offerings will leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos

★★★★★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Appetizer Cuisine: American Difficulty: Easy

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Servings

4-6

⏱️

Prep Time

30 min

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Cook Time

20 min

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Calories

Approximately 300 kcal per serving

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A crowd-pleasing snack that combines the delicious flavors of seafood and gooey cheese, perfect for parties, game days, or any casual get-together.

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Ingredients

• 8 ounces lump crab meat, drained
• 8 ounces cooked shrimp, chopped
• 1 cup queso fresco or cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 10-12 corn tortillas
• Cooking spray or vegetable oil for frying

Directions

1.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the lump crab meat, chopped shrimp, softened queso fresco or cream cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, chopped cilantro, lime juice, garlic powder, chili powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

2.

To prevent the corn tortillas from cracking, warm them in a microwave or on a skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.

3.

Take one warmed tortilla and spoon about 2 tablespoons of the filling onto the center. Roll it tightly, folding in the sides as you go. Repeat this until all the filling is used up.

4.

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C) for frying.

5.

Place the rolled taquitos seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray them lightly with cooking spray for extra crispness. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

6.

Once cooked, allow the taquitos to cool for a couple of minutes. Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro, avocado slices, crema, or fresh salsa.

Nutrition Facts