Go Back
Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos

Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos

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.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 5 servings
Course: Appetizer, Dinner
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 350

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

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Toothpicks
  • Mixing spoon
  • Spatula or tongs
  • Paper towel-lined plate
  • Serving plate

Method
 

  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.
  2. Add the chopped cilantro, garlic powder, and smoked paprika, stirring thoroughly to ensure the seasonings are evenly incorporated throughout the filling.
  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.
  4. Roll each tortilla tightly around the filling and secure with a toothpick through the seam to prevent unrolling during cooking.
  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.
  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.
  7. Transfer fried taquitos to a paper towel-lined plate. Let cool for 2-3 minutes, then carefully remove toothpicks.
  8. Plate your crispy taquitos, drizzle with warm queso, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

Use freshly cooked shrimp and crab meat for best flavor. Avoid overfilling to prevent bursting. Warm tortillas before rolling to prevent cracking. Can bake at 400°F for 15-18 minutes for a lighter option. Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 2 days. Freeze uncooked assembled taquitos for up to 1 month. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
QR Code linking back to recipe