There’s something undeniably satisfying about the crunch of a freshly fried taquito, especially when it’s filled with the rich, ocean-fresh flavors of crab and shrimp. Picture this: it’s a cozy Friday evening, and you’re craving something a bit more exciting than your usual takeout. This is exactly when my Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos came to life—a delightful fusion that pulls your taste buds into a world of creamy queso goodness mingled with succulent seafood.
I discovered this recipe one weekend while hosting friends, looking to impress without spending all day in the kitchen. In just 25 minutes, these golden, crispy bites transformed into the star of the evening, showered with compliments and empty plates. Not only are they incredibly easy to make, but they’re also versatile enough for any gathering—from game nights to casual dinners. So let’s dive in and bring a touch of homemade magic to your table with this indulgent treat!
Why love Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos?
Irresistible Crunch: Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch, making these taquitos a delight for the senses.
Ocean-Fresh Flavor: The succulent crab and shrimp combine beautifully, bringing a taste of the sea right to your plate.
Quick & Easy: Whip them up in just 25 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Versatile Snack: Enjoy as appetizers for parties or a main dish; they adapt easily to any occasion!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Watch your friends and family rave over these delicious treats; they’ll disappear in no time!
Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos Ingredients
• Get ready to make some delectable treats!
For the Filling
- Cooked shrimp – finely chopped for a nice texture and seafood flavor.
- Cooked crab meat – shredded to blend perfectly with the shrimp and add richness.
- Monterey Jack cheese – shredded to create a creamy, melty filling that defines “queso.”
- Cream cheese – softened to ensure a luscious, creamy consistency in the filling.
- Queso dip – choose mild or spicy depending on your heat preference for extra flavor.
- Fresh cilantro – chopped to add a fresh burst of flavor that brightens every bite.
- Garlic powder – enhances the filling with a savory note that complements the seafood.
- Smoked paprika – adds a subtle smokiness that elevates the taste profile beautifully.
For the Taquitos
- Small flour tortillas – the perfect vessel for your tasty filling, providing a soft yet sturdy base.
- Butter or oil – for frying, helping the taquitos turn golden and crispy; use oil for a lighter option.
Now that you have everything you need, let’s get cooking! With the perfect combination of protein and flavor, these Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
How to Make Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos
-
Mix: In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped shrimp, shredded crab meat, Monterey Jack cheese, softened cream cheese, queso dip, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until everything is evenly mixed and the flavors meld together.
-
Fill: Take a tortilla and scoop 2-3 tablespoons of the creamy seafood mixture onto one side. Roll it tightly and secure with a toothpick. Repeat until all tortillas are filled and rolled.
-
Fry: Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the taquitos to the pan and fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
-
Serve: Once cooked, remove the toothpicks from the taquitos and arrange them on a plate. Drizzle warm queso dip over the top for that ultimate indulgence.
-
Garnish: Finish by sprinkling fresh cilantro on top for an added touch of flavor and color. Serve immediately while they’re still crispy!
Optional: Pair with fresh avocado slices for a delightful creaminess.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos
-
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh shrimp and crab meat for the best flavor. Frozen options can work, but ensure they’re fully thawed and drained before using.
-
Avoid Overfilling: Don’t stuff the tortillas too full. Too much filling can result in bursting during frying and messy results.
-
Heat Control: Medium heat is key when frying. Too high and the taquitos may burn while remaining uncooked inside, while too low will make them greasy.
-
Crispy Finish: For the ultimate crunch, ensure the oil or butter is hot enough before adding your taquitos. A drop of water should sizzle upon contact when the temperature is just right.
-
Garnish Wisely: Fresh cilantro adds brightness, but you can also experiment with diced tomatoes or jalapeños for an extra layer of flavor—perfect for enhancing your Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the filling (shrimp, crab, cheeses, and spices) up to 24 hours ahead. Just combine all the ingredients, cover, and refrigerate. To maintain that fresh flavor, make sure to store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill the tortillas and fry them as directed. For an even quicker option, you can fully assemble the taquitos and freeze them for up to 3 days. Just fry them straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute to cooking time. Enjoy the satisfaction of a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort!
Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious twists to make your taquitos even more exciting!
-
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the filling for a fiery touch. Spice lovers will rejoice!
-
Cheesy Twist: Substitute Monterey Jack with pepper jack cheese for an extra layer of heat and flavor that melts beautifully.
-
Low-Carb: Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas for a guilt-free option that’ll still satisfy your cravings.
-
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh dill or parsley into the filling for a refreshing aromatic element that brightens the dish.
-
Vegan Version: Swap seafood for sautéed mushrooms and use plant-based cream cheese and cheese for a savory vegan alternative.
-
Crunchy Texture: Mix in some crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs into your filling for an unexpected crunch that contrasts beautifully.
-
Coconut Cream: For a tropical flair, mix in some coconut cream instead of cream cheese, giving the filling a rich, unique twist.
-
Smoky Flavor: Add a touch of chipotle powder along with the smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky depth that complements the seafood wonderfully.
Storage Tips for Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos
-
Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but if left out, taquitos can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
-
Fridge: Store cooked taquitos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispness.
-
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfilled taquitos for up to 3 months. Lay them flat on a baking sheet first to prevent sticking, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
-
Reheating: Thaw frozen taquitos overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to restore their crunch.
What to Serve with Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos?
Picture yourself hosting a lively get-together where these delightful taquitos steal the show, perfectly accompanied by a selection of enticing sides.
-
Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole beautifully complements the crispy taquitos while adding a refreshing layer of flavor. Dip in for the perfect balance of textures.
-
Fresh Pico de Gallo: This bright, zesty salsa offers a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of your taquitos. The vibrant flavors will elevate your dish beautifully.
-
Spanish Rice: Fluffy and aromatic, Spanish rice adds a hearty base to your meal, providing a comforting and filling element alongside those crispy bites.
-
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky corn, grilled to perfection, brings a delightful charred flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory seafood filling.
-
Cilantro Lime Slaw: This crunchy slaw drizzled with a zesty lime dressing brings a refreshing crunch, balancing the creaminess of the taquitos with its bright flavors.
-
Chilled Beer or Sangria: A crisp beer or fruity sangria makes a refreshing drink choice that enhances the festive vibe while complementing the bold flavors of your taquitos.
-
Chili Con Queso: For ultimate indulgence, serve alongside a warm bowl of chili con queso. Dip those taquitos into cheesy goodness and watch them disappear!
-
Lime Wedges: Squeeze a burst of citrus over the taquitos just before eating for an extra zing that brightens every bite, enhancing the seafood flavors even more.
Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos Recipe FAQs
What kind of seafood should I use?
Absolutely use fresh, cooked shrimp and crab meat for the best flavor! If using frozen, ensure they are completely thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture in your filling.
How should I store leftover taquitos?
You can store cooked taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them crisp, reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat—you’ll love that crunch!
Can I freeze my taquitos?
Yes, you can! For freezing, lay unfilled taquitos flat on a baking sheet and pop them in the freezer just until firm, about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and pop them back in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What’s the best way to reheat frozen taquitos?
To reheat, thaw your frozen taquitos in the fridge overnight. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake them for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re heated through and crispy again—nothing beats that texture!
How do I avoid soggy taquitos when frying?
Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the taquitos—medium heat is ideal. If your oil isn’t hot, you risk ending up with greasy, soggy bites. Test the oil by dropping a small piece of tortilla in; if it sizzles, you’re ready to go!
Are these taquitos suitable for any dietary restrictions?
They can be adjusted for specific dietary needs! For a gluten-free option, use corn tortillas. Also, if anyone has seafood allergies, you could substitute the crab and shrimp with shredded chicken or a mix of beans for a vegetarian twist.
Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos You'll Love to Make
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped shrimp, shredded crab meat, Monterey Jack cheese, softened cream cheese, queso dip, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until everything is evenly mixed and the flavors meld together.
- Take a tortilla and scoop 2-3 tablespoons of the creamy seafood mixture onto one side. Roll it tightly and secure with a toothpick. Repeat until all tortillas are filled and rolled.
- Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the taquitos to the pan and fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, remove the toothpicks from the taquitos and arrange them on a plate. Drizzle warm queso dip over the top for that ultimate indulgence.
- Finish by sprinkling fresh cilantro on top for an added touch of flavor and color. Serve immediately while they’re still crispy!