Description
Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos are a delicious, golden-fried appetizer featuring a creamy and flavorful seafood filling made with shrimp, crab, Monterey Jack, and cream cheese blended with queso dip and spices. These taquitos are rolled in small flour tortillas and pan-fried to crunchy perfection, making them perfect for parties or a tasty snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood Filling
- 1/2 lb cooked shrimp, finely chopped
- 1/2 lb cooked crab meat, shredded
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup queso dip (mild or spicy)
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
Taquitos
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 2 tbsp butter or oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped cooked shrimp, shredded crab meat, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, softened cream cheese, queso dip, chopped fresh cilantro, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble the Taquitos: Lay a small flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon a generous amount of the seafood filling along one edge of the tortilla. Carefully roll the tortilla tightly around the filling to form a taquito. Repeat this process for all tortillas and filling.
- Heat the Cooking Fat: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter or oil over medium heat until hot but not smoking. The fat should shimmer to ensure the taquitos will crisp evenly.
- Fry the Taquitos: Place the rolled taquitos seam-side down in the skillet. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy all over. Ensure to turn them carefully using tongs to avoid breaking.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the taquitos from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as salsa or guacamole.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to allow for easier mixing and a creamier filling.
- To prevent tortillas from cracking while rolling, warm them slightly in the microwave or on a dry skillet beforehand.
- If you prefer a spicier flavor, choose a spicy queso dip or add a pinch of chili powder to the filling.
- You can bake the taquitos at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes as a healthier alternative to frying.
- Fresh cilantro adds brightness but can be omitted or substituted with parsley if unavailable.
Keywords: crab, shrimp, queso, taquitos, fried appetizer, seafood, creamy filling