Name: Crab Shrimp Queso
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: ½ lb cooked shrimp, finely chopped; ½ lb cooked crab meat, shredded; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; ½ cup cream cheese, softened; ½ cup queso dip (mild or spicy); 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped; ½ tsp garlic powder; ¼ tsp smoked paprika; 8 small flour tortillas; 2 tbsp butter or oil (for frying)

Jump to Recipe

Making a delicious party snack often feels like a quest for the ultimate flavor fusion. When I first tried my hand at crafting Crab Shrimp Queso, I was blown away by how the creamy goodness enveloped tender seafood and melted cheese into an irresistible treat. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in, this dish elevates your snacking game to a whole new level, offering a dynamic blend of textures and flavors that’ll have everyone coming back for more.

What Makes This Recipe Special

If you’re still on the fence about trying this delectable dish, let me share why you simply can’t miss out. First and foremost, Crab Shrimp Queso combines luxurious seafood with the comfort of cheesy goodness, turning an ordinary snack into a gourmet experience. It’s quick and straightforward to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or festive occasions when you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s budget-friendly! With readily available ingredients, you can whip up a feast that feels upscale without breaking the bank.

"This Crab Shrimp Queso is a hit at every gathering! The flavors are rich and creamy, and it disappears faster than I can refill the plates!" – Jessica, Recipe Enthusiast

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Preparing Crab Shrimp Queso is straightforward and perfect for all cooking levels. The process involves simply combining a creamy mixture, filling tortillas, and frying them until perfectly golden. It’s a step-by-step endeavor that can easily be accomplished in under 30 minutes! Here’s the gist: mix your ingredients, fill the tortillas, and fry them up – that’s it! Now, let’s dive into what you’ll need to get started.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you cook, you’ll want to make sure you have everything ready. Here’s a checklist of what you’ll need for this scrumptious snack:

½ lb cooked shrimp, finely chopped
½ lb cooked crab meat, shredded
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
½ cup cream cheese, softened
½ cup queso dip (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp smoked paprika
8 small flour tortillas
2 tbsp butter or oil (for frying)

Feel free to substitute ingredients based on availability or dietary preferences. For instance, you might use cheddar cheese instead of Monterey Jack or swap crab meat for imitation crab for a more budget-friendly version.

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Step-by-Step Directions

Ready to dive into cooking? Here’s how to make your Crab Shrimp Queso:

In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, shredded crab meat, Monterey Jack cheese, softened cream cheese, queso dip, cilantro, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until everything is well mixed and creamy.
Take a small flour tortilla and scoop 2-3 tablespoons of the filling into the center. Roll it tightly and secure with a toothpick.
In a skillet, heat the butter or oil over medium heat.
Once hot, add the rolled tortillas and fry them until golden brown and crispy on all sides, typically about 2-3 minutes per side.
Remove the toothpicks, plate up your creations, and drizzle warm queso dip over the top.
Garnish with additional cilantro and serve immediately while the cheese is still gooey and irresistible!

Serving suggestions

Crab Shrimp Queso is versatile, making it a fantastic addition to any gathering. Serve them alongside some fresh guacamole or salsa for a full fiesta experience. You can also pair them with a light salad or vegetable platter to balance the richness of the quesos. Consider these creative ideas:

Serve with a zesty lime wedge for an added burst of flavor.
Accompany with crunchy tortilla chips for those who prefer to dip rather than bite.
Create a seafood platter alongside a variety of sauces for a striking communal dish.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers (though that’s rare!), it’s essential to store them properly to maintain freshness. Place any uneaten Crab Shrimp Queso in an airtight container and refrigerate. They can last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

To reheat, simply fry again in a skillet until crispy or warm them in the oven. If you want to prepare ahead of time, you could also prepare the filling and store it separately, but I wouldn’t recommend freezing the filled tortillas as they won’t retain their crispy texture.

Expert Advice

To ensure your quesos are perfectly crispy, let your oil heat adequately before adding the tortillas. A test piece should sizzle upon entering the pan.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet! Fry in batches to maintain that delicious crunch.

Recipe variations

Get creative with your Crab Shrimp Queso by making some flavorful twists:

For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños to the filling.
Try mixing different cheeses, such as pepper jack for heat or gouda for smokiness.
Swap out shrimp and crab for other seafood like lobster or add sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian alternative.

Questions & Answers

How long does it take to prepare and cook this dish?

The total time is approximately 30 minutes. Mixing, filling, and frying don’t take long!

Can I use frozen seafood?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain before using.

What’s the best way to serve leftover quesos?

Reheat them in a skillet for the best results—this helps maintain the crispy exterior.

With its delightful flavor and creamy texture, Crab Shrimp Queso is poised to become a beloved staple at your gatherings. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe and don’t be afraid to make it your own!