Crab Shrimp Queso Rolls Recipe
Introduction
Crab Shrimp Queso is a deliciously creamy and savory appetizer that combines tender seafood with melty cheese in crispy tortillas. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for sharing with friends or serving at your next gathering.

Ingredients
- 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
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 2 tbsp butter or oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, shredded crab meat, Monterey Jack cheese, softened cream cheese, queso dip, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix well until fully blended.
- Step 2: Place 2 to 3 tablespoons of the filling in the center of each flour tortilla. Roll the tortillas tightly and secure each with a toothpick to hold the filling inside.
- Step 3: Heat the butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat until hot.
- Step 4: Fry the rolled tortillas in the skillet, turning frequently, until they are golden brown and crunchy on all sides. This should take about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
- Step 5: Remove the toothpicks, plate the quesos, then drizzle with warm queso dip and sprinkle with additional fresh cilantro before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crispiness, use a cast-iron skillet or fryer and ensure the oil is properly heated before frying.
- Substitute Monterey Jack with pepper jack cheese for a spicier kick.
- Try adding diced jalapeños to the filling to enhance the heat level.
- Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option, but warm them first to prevent cracking when rolling.
Storage
Store leftover crab shrimp quesos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving to maintain crispness.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh seafood instead of cooked shrimp and crab?
It’s best to use cooked shrimp and crab meat for this recipe to avoid overcooking during frying. If using fresh seafood, cook it first before adding it to the filling.
What can I serve with Crab Shrimp Queso?
This dish pairs well with fresh salsa, guacamole, or a simple side salad to balance the rich, cheesy flavors.
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Crab Shrimp Queso Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Crab Shrimp Queso recipe combines succulent seafood with creamy cheeses and flavorful spices, all wrapped in crispy fried tortillas. Perfect as a savory appetizer or a hearty snack, these quesadillas deliver a delightful blend of textures and rich flavors in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
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
For Assembly and Cooking
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 2 tbsp butter or oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Combine the filling: In a large bowl, thoroughly mix 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 until all ingredients are well blended and form a creamy, flavorful filling.
- Fill the tortillas: Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of the prepared seafood and cheese filling into the center of each flour tortilla. Roll the tortillas tightly to enclose the filling and secure each rolled tortilla with a toothpick to prevent it from unraveling during frying.
- Heat the skillet: Place a skillet over medium heat and add butter or oil. Allow it to heat until shimmering and hot enough for frying.
- Fry until golden: Carefully place the rolled tortillas seam side down in the hot skillet. Fry each side for about 3 to 4 minutes or until they become golden brown and crispy, turning carefully to evenly cook all sides without burning. Stir occasionally to ensure even frying and prevent sticking.
- Serve: Remove the fried rolled tortillas from the skillet and place them on a serving plate. Remove the toothpicks, drizzle warm queso dip over the top, and sprinkle with additional fresh cilantro for garnish. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to facilitate easy mixing with the other ingredients.
- Use mild or spicy queso dip based on your preferred heat level.
- Be careful while frying to avoid burning—adjust heat as necessary.
- Can be served with extra salsa or guacamole for dipping.
- To make this dish gluten-free, substitute flour tortillas with gluten-free tortillas.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Crab Shrimp Queso, seafood quesadilla, fried tortillas, appetizer, Mexican-inspired, creamy seafood, crispy snack

