Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Taquitos

A Delicious Twist on Seafood: Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Taquitos

There’s something irresistibly inviting about the combination of crab and shrimp, especially when melted cheese is involved. This recipe for Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Taquitos brings together these delightful seafood flavors wrapped in crispy corn tortillas, creating a dish that’s not only indulgent but also fun to eat. Whether you’re whipping these up for a quick weeknight dinner or serving them at a gathering with friends, these taquitos are sure to impress. I found that they bring a taste of coastal cuisine right to my kitchen, making any occasion feel special.

What Makes This Recipe Special

You might wonder why you should take the time to make Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Taquitos. Let me share a few compelling reasons! First, they come together quickly, making them great for those busy evenings. Plus, they pack a flavorful punch—whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a holiday celebration, or a casual party appetizer, these taquitos can do it all.

Just imagine that crunchy exterior giving way to a creamy filling rich with the taste of seafood. Not to mention, they’re easily customizable according to your taste preferences.

"Wow! These Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Taquitos were a hit at our party! Everyone was asking for the recipe. I love how easy they are to make and how delicious they taste!" – A satisfied home cook.

Overview of Making Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Taquitos

Ready to dive into the cooking process? This recipe is straightforward and gives you delightful results. You’ll start by mixing your creamy seafood filling, warming the tortillas, and rolling them up. The final touch? A golden frying that gives you those irresistible crispy edges.

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty so you know exactly what to expect!

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Gather Your Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these scrumptious taquitos:

  • 10 small corn tortillas
  • 1 cup cooked crab meat
  • 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
  • 1 cup queso cheese (or cheese of your choice)
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Oil for frying
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
  • Sour cream or salsa, for serving (optional)

Feel free to swap out the types of cheese or seafood based on what you have on hand—this recipe is versatile!

Cooking Steps to Perfection

Making Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Taquitos is a breeze! Just follow these steps:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked crab and chopped shrimp with the cheeses, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper.
  2. Preheat a skillet over medium heat and warm the corn tortillas, about 30 seconds on each side, until they’re pliable.
  3. Spoon a generous portion of your filling onto each tortilla, then roll them tightly to form taquitos.
  4. In a deep skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully fry the taquitos until they are golden brown and crispy—about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
  5. Remove the taquitos from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, and enjoy with sour cream or salsa on the side.

Serving Ideas for Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Taquitos

Now that you’ve made these delicious taquitos, how will you present them? Here are some creative serving suggestions:

  • Arrange the taquitos on a large platter with a few bowls of salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for dipping.
  • Add a side of fresh, zesty coleslaw to cut through the richness of the taquitos.
  • For a festive touch, garnish with lime wedges and extra cilantro.

These taquitos can also shine as part of a larger seafood buffet or pair beautifully with cold drinks.

Best Way to Store Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Taquitos

To keep your leftover taquitos fresh and safe, follow these simple storage guidelines:

  • Refrigeration: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the taquitos before frying. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Fry them straight from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy!

Always ensure that food is handled safely to prevent spoilage.

Pro Chef Tips for Success

Here are some handy tips to elevate your taquito-making game:

  • Warm Tortillas: Don’t skip the step of warming the tortillas; this makes them easier to roll and prevents tearing.
  • Crispy Finish: If you want extra crispy taquitos, double-fry them. After the first fry, let them cool for a minute, then fry them again for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
  • Spice It Up: Add some finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to your filling for a spicy kick!

Creative Twists for Your Taquitos

While the classic crab and shrimp combo is delectable, consider some fun variations:

  • Veggie Boost: Throw in some diced bell peppers or corn for added texture and flavor.
  • Different Seafood: Swap the shrimp for lobster or even imitation crab if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option.
  • Cheese Choices: Experiment with different kinds of cheese—think pepper jack for a kick or a gooey mozzarella for a mild, stretchy filling.

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for this recipe?

The prep time is roughly 15 minutes, while cooking will take another 15-20 minutes, depending on your frying method.

Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain excess water before using it in your filling.

How do I keep my taquitos from getting soggy?

Make sure your frying oil is hot enough before you add the taquitos, and avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain the crispiness.

Now you have everything you need to make Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Taquitos a fabulous addition to your dining table. Happy cooking!

Print
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Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Taquitos


  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Pescatarian

Description

Delicious taquitos filled with crab, shrimp, and melted cheese, perfectly crispy and fun to eat!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 10 small corn tortillas
  • 1 cup cooked crab meat
  • 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
  • 1 cup queso cheese (or cheese of your choice)
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Oil for frying
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
  • Sour cream or salsa, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked crab and chopped shrimp with the cheeses, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper.
  2. Preheat a skillet over medium heat and warm the corn tortillas, about 30 seconds on each side, until they’re pliable.
  3. Spoon a generous portion of your filling onto each tortilla, then roll them tightly to form taquitos.
  4. In a deep skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully fry the taquitos until they are golden brown and crispy—about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
  5. Remove the taquitos from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, and enjoy with sour cream or salsa on the side.

Notes

For extra crispy taquitos, consider double-frying them. Customize the filling by adding jalapeños for spice or using different types of seafood.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: taquitos, seafood, crab, shrimp, appetizer, party food

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