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
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
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
