Description
Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos are golden-fried rolled corn tortillas filled with a creamy blend of lump crab meat, chopped shrimp, Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses, cream cheese, and aromatic seasonings. These taquitos offer a delightful combination of seafood and cheese with a crispy exterior, perfect as a flavorful appetizer or snack. Ready in just 40 minutes, they’re best served warm with guacamole, sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added freshness.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood Filling
- 1 cup cooked crab meat (lump crab works best)
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped (peeled and deveined)
Cheese and Seasonings
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other Ingredients
- 8 small corn tortillas
- Cooking oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, chopped shrimp, Monterey Jack cheese, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, green onions, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a smooth, uniform mixture.
- Warm the Tortillas: Heat the corn tortillas in a hot skillet for about 30 seconds on each side to make them pliable, or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20 seconds.
- Assemble the Taquitos: Spoon a generous amount of the seafood cheese mixture into the center of each warm tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly and tuck in the sides to secure the filling, forming a compact taquito.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet, pour enough cooking oil to cover the taquitos halfway and heat over medium heat until shimmering and hot.
- Fry the Taquitos: Carefully place the rolled taquitos seam-side down into the hot oil. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove the taquitos with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the crispy taquitos warm, garnished with chopped cilantro and accompanied by your choice of dipping sauces such as guacamole or sour cream.
Notes
- Warming the tortillas makes rolling easier and prevents cracking during frying.
- Use fresh lump crab meat for the best texture and flavor.
- Ensure oil is hot enough before frying to achieve crispiness and prevent sogginess.
- For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of garlic and onion powder.
- Can be baked for a lower-fat alternative: bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes until crispy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Keywords: crispy taquitos, crab and shrimp taquitos, seafood appetizer, fried taquitos, Mexican seafood recipe, queso taquitos
