Name: Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked shrimp (fresh or thawed); 1 cup crab meat (fresh or canned); 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese (or pepper jack for spice); 4 oz cream cheese (softened); 1 cup queso dip (mild or spicy); ¼ cup fresh cilantro (or parsley as a substitute); 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika); 8 pieces flour tortillas (or corn for gluten-free); ½ cup butter or oil (for frying)

The kitchen buzzed with anticipation as I flipped through my recipe collection, seeking something special for our next gathering. That’s when I stumbled upon Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos—a dish that promises to elevate your appetizer game with ease. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up these delightful taquitos, perfect for cozy movie nights or lively get-togethers. Made with fresh seafood and creamy cheeses, they’re not only a crowd-pleaser but also completely customizable to suit your taste. From low-carb alternatives to fiery spicy twists, the variations are endless! Are you ready to discover how these golden, crispy delights can transform your mealtime?

Why Try Crispy Crab and Shrimp Taquitos?

Quick, Easy Recipe: This delightful dish is ready in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Combining fresh crab, shrimp, and warm cheeses, each bite offers an explosion of savory, ocean-fresh taste that everyone will adore.

Customizable Options: Whether you opt for low-carb tortillas or spice it up with jalapeños, you can easily adapt this recipe to fit your dietary needs or preferences.

Unique Texture: Crisp and golden on the outside, these taquitos deliver a delightful crunch while enveloping a warm, cheesy filling that melts in your mouth—truly a culinary win!

Perfect Pairings: Serve these with guacamole, pico de gallo, or even a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal that impresses every time. If you’re looking for other exciting bites, don’t miss out on my Coconut Shrimp Sweet or incredible Steak Queso Rice.

Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos Ingredients

For the Filling

Cooked Shrimp – Offers a sweet, delicate seafood flavor; fresh is recommended, but thawed frozen works too.
Crab Meat – Provides richness and a briny ocean taste; opt for fresh, or canned if needed.
Monterey Jack Cheese – Melts beautifully for a creamy texture; substitute with pepper jack for added spice.
Cream Cheese – Adds creaminess; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Queso Dip – Elevates the cheesy flavor; choose mild or spicy based on your preference.
Fresh Cilantro – Lends a bright, herbal note; if you’re not a fan, parsley is a suitable substitute.
Garlic Powder – Deepens the savory flavor profile.
Smoked Paprika – Introduces a subtle smokiness; regular paprika can be used for a gentler taste.

For the Taquitos

Flour Tortillas – Serve as the base; opt for corn tortillas for a gluten-free version.
Butter or Oil – Necessary for frying and achieving that crispy texture; ensure it’s preheated before frying the taquitos.

Let your culinary creativity shine with these Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos! These ingredients come together to create a delightful dish that will have your family and friends coming back for more. Enjoy the process!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos

Step 1: Mix Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, crab meat, Monterey Jack cheese, cream cheese, queso dip, fresh cilantro, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir the mixture until everything is well blended and creamy. This rich filling will be full of flavor, so make sure to taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set the bowl aside as you prepare the tortillas.

Step 2: Fill Tortillas
Lay out your flour tortillas on a clean surface. For each tortilla, scoop 2-3 tablespoons of the prepared filling onto one side. Roll the tortilla tightly, tucking in the sides as you go, and secure each taquito with a toothpick to keep the filling from spilling out. Continue this process until all the filling has been used, arranging the filled taquitos on a platter as you go.

Step 3: Heat Oil
In a large skillet, heat about ½ inch of butter or oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to reach a temperature of around 350°F (175°C); test readiness by dropping in a small piece of tortilla—if it sizzles, you’re good to go! This ensures your taquitos will turn crispy and golden brown, creating that delightful crunch in your Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos.

Step 4: Fry Taquitos
Carefully place a few taquitos in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook them for 3-4 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden brown. Turn them to fry the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes, ensuring they are cooked evenly. Use tongs to remove the taquitos and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Serve
Once drained, carefully remove the toothpicks from the taquitos. Arrange your Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos on a serving platter, and drizzle with warm queso dip, if desired. For an extra pop of freshness, sprinkle with additional cilantro before serving. Enjoy your delicious creation while still hot for the best flavor experience!

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos

Fridge: Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their flavor and texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, place unfilled taquitos flat on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Enjoy within 3 months for best quality.

Reheating: To restore crispiness, reheat taquitos in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy.

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated, making your crispy crab and shrimp queso taquitos quicker to assemble when it’s time to entertain.

Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos Variations

Feel free to mix things up and make these taquitos your own! Your creative twists will take delicious to a whole new level.

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling for a fiery burst of heat. Spice lovers unite—each bite packs a flavorful punch!
Low-Carb Alternative: Swap flour tortillas for crunchy lettuce wraps to enjoy a light and refreshing version without missing out on flavor. Perfect for a healthy twist!
Vegan Version: Replace crab and shrimp with sautéed mushrooms and use plant-based cheeses for a delightful and compassionate alternative. It’s a win for your taste buds and the planet!
Extra Crunch: Mix in some crushed tortilla chips into the filling for added texture and a delightful crunch that complements every bite. This twist makes it irresistibly fun!
Herbed Delight: Fresh basil or dill can add a unique herbal twist to the filling, enhancing the flavor and aroma with every mouthful. A fragrant touch to elevate your meal!
Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with a blend of cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a bolder flavor profile. Cheese lovers, rejoice! Each bite will be a gooey delight.
Zesty Citrus: Add a touch of lime or lemon zest to the filling for a refreshing zing that balances the richness of the cheese. It’s a citrusy spark of goodness!
Seafood Mix-Up: Try adding some scallops or a bit of lobster meat for an elegant seafood upgrade that takes these taquitos to gourmet heights. Impress everyone with this decadent twist!

Don’t forget to pair these delightful flavors with a side of guacamole or pico de gallo, making every meal a special occasion. If you’re after more mouthwatering bites, check out my Crispy Blueberry Grilled Cheese or Crispy Dill Pickle Parmesan Chicken.

Expert Tips for Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos

Hot Oil Check: Always ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. Use a small drop of water to test; if it sizzles, the oil is ready for your crispy crab and shrimp queso taquitos.
Avoid Overfilling: Be cautious not to overfill your tortillas. This helps prevent bursting and keeps your filling perfectly nestled inside each taquito.
Drain Effectively: After frying, place your taquitos on paper towels to drain excess oil. This will ensure they remain crispy and not greasy when serving.
Customize Wisely: Feel free to tweak ingredients, but remember that some substitutions might alter the final taste. Opt for fresh seafood for the best flavor in your crispy crab and shrimp queso taquitos.
Pre-Prepare Filling: For easy entertaining, prepare your filling up to 24 hours ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for quick assembly when needed.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during meal prep! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its delightful flavor. For maximum freshness, it’s best to fill the tortillas just before frying; however, if you want to roll them ahead of time, place the filled taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet and refrigerate them for up to 3 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat oil in a skillet and fry the taquitos as directed—this way, you’ll enjoy that satisfying crunch that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!

What to Serve with Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos

These delightful bites are best enjoyed as part of a vibrant meal filled with fresh flavors and textures to elevate your dining experience.

Guacamole: Creamy and tangy, this avocado dip adds richness that beautifully balances the crunchy texture of the taquitos. A classic pairing that is always a favorite!
Pico de Gallo: Fresh and zesty, this mix of tomatoes, onion, and cilantro creates a refreshing contrast to the savory taquitos. It’s like a burst of sunshine with every bite.
Spanish Rice: Fluffy and mildly seasoned, this dish provides a heartier side that complements the seafood flavor perfectly. It rounds out your meal with comforting carbs.
Crisp Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch and contrast to the richness of the taquitos. It’s a healthy touch that brightens the plate.
Creamy Cilantro Dip: This aromatic sauce emphasizes the flavors of the taquitos, enhancing each bite with extra creaminess and herbal goodness. A fantastic and easy way to add flavor!
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio brings out the seafood flavors while offering a delightful accompaniment to the richness of the cheese.

Pair your Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos with these delicious options to create a memorable meal that will impress family and friends alike!

Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos Recipe FAQs

What kind of shrimp should I use in my taquitos?
Absolutely! Fresh shrimp is recommended for the best flavor, but if you’re short on time, thawed frozen shrimp also works wonders. Just ensure you drain them well after thawing for the perfect filling consistency.

How should I store leftover taquitos?
Definitely! Leftover Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to restore that delightful crunch before serving.

Can I freeze the taquitos?
Yes, you can! To freeze, arrange the unfilled taquitos on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply fry them from frozen until golden brown.

What should I do if my taquitos are getting soggy?
Oh no! If your taquitos are soggy, it might be due to too much filling or not frying them at a high enough temperature. Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying. Also, try to drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil and keep that crispiness intact.

Are these taquitos suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! You can easily make these taquitos gluten-free by swapping out the flour tortillas for corn tortillas. They’ll still come out crispy and delicious while accommodating gluten-sensitive diners.

How can I adjust the spice level in the filling?
Very easily! For a kick, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the filling. Alternatively, you can use pepper jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack for an extra spicy twist. Enjoy experimenting with flavors!