As I set out to impress my friends for game day, the idea of Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos came to mind—an unexpected yet delightful twist on the usual snack fare. These golden, crunchy taquitos are stuffed with a creamy seafood filling that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Not only are they a fantastic way to showcase the flavors of crab and shrimp, but they also offer the perfect gluten-free option with corn tortillas. Whether you’re entertaining a crowd or simply craving something indulgent, this simple recipe is sure to become your new go-to. Ready to turn your kitchen into the ultimate snack haven? Let’s dive in!
Why are these taquitos a must-try?
Bold flavors: Every bite of these Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos bursts with flavorful seafood goodness that elevates your snack game.
Quick preparation: With easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll have this delicious appetizer ready in no time, leaving more time for your guests to enjoy!
Versatile option: Customize your filling with a variety of cheeses or spices for a unique touch, like mixing in jalapeños for a kick.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for game day, these taquitos are sure to impress friends and family alike—whether paired with spicy chipotle mayo or guacamole.
Gluten-free option: Made with corn tortillas, this recipe also caters to those with dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can indulge in delicious flavors.
Ready to explore more scrumptious seafood treats? Try Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos for an unforgettable flavor experience!
Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos Ingredients
For the Seafood Filling
- Crab Meat – Adds sweetness and tender texture; substitute with additional shrimp for a different flavor.
- Shrimp – Provides a juicy, succulent element; use fresh or fully thawed frozen shrimp, ensuring they’re patted dry.
- Queso Cheese – Creates a creamy filling; a queso blanco or a queso fresco blend works best for a smooth texture.
- Garlic (Minced) – Enhances flavor depth; optionally use garlic powder if fresh isn’t on hand.
- Onion (Minced) – Adds aromatic sweetness; can substitute with shallots if desired.
- Lime Juice – Brightens the filling; replace with lemon juice if necessary.
- Cilantro – Provides freshness and color; omit for a no-herb version or substitute with green onions.
- Seasonings – Customize to taste; consider adding cumin or paprika for extra warmth.
For the Taquito Assembly
- Tortillas – Serve as the crunchy exterior; corn tortillas for a gluten-free option; warm them slightly to avoid cracking when rolling.
These Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos are sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by combining the crab meat, chopped shrimp, cream cheese, shredded cheese, and green onions in a large mixing bowl. Add garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix everything thoroughly until smooth and well combined, creating a creamy, flavorful seafood mixture that will become the heart of your Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos.
Step 2: Assemble the Taquitos
Lay a flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon about two tablespoons of the seafood filling onto the bottom third of the tortilla. Carefully roll the tortilla away from you, tucking in the sides as you go to create a snug taquito. Keep the seam side down as you complete rolling all tortillas, ensuring they hold their shape while frying.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a large, deep skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). To test the oil’s readiness, you can drop in a small piece of tortilla; it should sizzle immediately. This hot oil is essential for creating that crispy, golden-brown exterior on your Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos.
Step 4: Fry the Taquitos
Once the oil is hot, carefully place a few taquitos seam-side down into the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to turn them gently, ensuring even cooking. Remove the taquitos and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos on a platter. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces, like salsa or guacamole, for an extra flavor kick. These delectable taquitos are ready to impress your family or guests, showcasing the perfect balance of seafood delight and cheesy goodness!
Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos Variations
Feel free to mix things up with these creative twists that promise to elevate your taquito experience!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the filling for a zesty lift that adds heat and brightness. This fiery addition will create a delicious contrast to the creamy seafood blend.
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Chicken Option: Replace seafood with shredded chicken for a hearty alternative. Perfect for those who prefer poultry, it’s a tasty way to switch things up while still enjoying the crispy taquito shell.
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap the crab and shrimp for black beans and corn. Season with cumin and paprika for an earthy flavor that keeps the filling robust and satisfying.
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Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or smoked gouda. This can add layers of flavor and richness that will delight cheese lovers.
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Cilantro Substitute: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try mixing in fresh parsley or basil instead. Each herb will give your taquitos a unique touch while keeping that fresh taste.
If you’re in the mood for more seafood delights, consider pairing your taquitos with a side of Garlic Shrimp Pasta or serve them alongside Crab Crescent Bites for a complete feast that’ll impress your guests!
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Zingy Lime: Squeeze in extra lime juice to brighten the filling. This simple addition can work wonders to enhance the overall flavor profile.
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Crunchy Extras: Add some crushed tortilla chips or panko crumbs to the filling for an unexpected crunch. It will create an exciting texture with every bite!
Storage Tips for Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos
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Fridge: Store cooked taquitos in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispy texture.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze taquitos in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 1 month. This keeps your crab and shrimp queso taquitos fresh and ready for snacking!
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
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Avoiding Sogginess: To maintain their crunch, don’t store them in a container while still hot, as condensation can create moisture.
Make Ahead Options
These Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos are fantastic for meal prep! You can prepare the creamy seafood filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing together the crab meat, shrimp, cream cheese, shredded cheese, green onions, and spices. Simply refrigerate the mixture in an airtight container to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy, warm up your tortillas slightly to avoid cracking, then assemble and fry the taquitos as directed. This way, you’ll delight your family with crispy, homemade taquitos that taste just as fresh and delicious, all while saving valuable time on busy weekdays!
Expert Tips for Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos
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Opt for Freshness: Make sure you use fresh or fully thawed crab meat and shrimp to enhance the flavors of the taquitos. Avoid soggy fillings by patting seafood dry.
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Warm Tortillas: Slightly warm the flour tortillas before filling to prevent cracking while rolling. This keeps your Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos intact and ensures they fry beautifully.
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Avoid Overcrowding: When frying, don’t overcrowd the pan. This keeps the oil at the right temperature for crispy results and ensures even cooking.
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Crispier Baking Alternative: For a healthier option, try baking the taquitos at 400°F for 15-20 minutes. They’ll still be crispy but cut down on oil usage.
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Season Generously: Tailor the seasoning to your preference. A dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can elevate the flavor profile of your Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos!
What to Serve with Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos
Elevate your game day spread with delightful sides that complement every crispy bite of these mouthwatering taquitos.
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Spicy Chipotle Mayo: The creamy and smoky flavor of chipotle mayo adds a zesty kick that pairs wonderfully with the seafood filling.
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Guacamole: Rich and creamy, guacamole balances the taquitos’ crunch while providing a refreshing contrast that keeps flavors light.
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Mexican Rice: Fluffy and flavorful, this side adds heartiness to your meal and is perfect for scooping up any remaining filling.
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Black Beans: Seasoned black beans provide a protein-rich, hearty counterpart that further enriches your game day feast. They also add a lovely color to the plate!
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Fresh Salsa Verde: This vibrant, tangy salsa brightens up the platter and echoes the freshness of lime and cilantro found in the taquitos.
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Chilled Cerveza: A refreshing light beer effortlessly cuts through the richness, enhancing the culinary experience as you savor your crispy crab and shrimp queso taquitos.
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Crispy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for snacking, these chips invite dips and salsas that mirror the flavors of your main dish.
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Margaritas: To bring a festive touch, serve up these classic cocktails that contrast the savoriness with a sweet and tangy punch.
Get ready to indulge in a feast that transforms any gathering into a festive celebration!
Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best crab meat and shrimp?
Absolutely! When choosing crab meat, look for fresh, high-quality options with a sweet aroma and a clean appearance. The meat should be firm and should not have a strong fishy smell. For shrimp, opt for fresh or fully thawed, ideally wild-caught. They should be pinkish or opaque white with a firm texture. Always pat them dry before using to prevent sogginess in your filling.
What’s the best way to store leftover taquitos?
Very easy! Store your cooked Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, use an oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes or an air fryer for 5-8 minutes to regain their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving as it could make them soggy!
Can I freeze taquitos for later?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag to avoid freezer burn for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat directly from frozen in a preheated oven at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until golden and crispy.
What should I do if my taquitos are soggy after frying?
No worries! Sogginess can occur if the seafood is too wet or if the oil isn’t hot enough. To prevent this in the future, ensure all seafood is patted dry before mixing. Also, preheat your oil to about 350°F (175°C) before frying. If they do end up soggy, try placing them on a wire rack after frying to let steam escape, or a quick re-fry in hotter oil can help crisp them back up.
Are these taquitos gluten-free?
Yes! If you use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas, your Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos will be completely gluten-free. It’s a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. Just be sure to warm the corn tortillas slightly to prevent them from cracking while rolling.
Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos: A Flavor Fiesta Awaits
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Filling: Combine the crab meat, chopped shrimp, cream cheese, shredded cheese, and green onions in a mixing bowl. Add garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to taste, and mix until smooth.
- Assemble the Taquitos: Lay a tortilla flat, spoon about two tablespoons of filling onto the bottom third, and roll tightly, tucking the sides in to hold shape.
- Heat the Oil: In a skillet, heat 1 inch of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Test readiness with a small piece of tortilla; it should sizzle.
- Fry the Taquitos: Place a few taquitos seam-side down in the skillet, frying for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve and Enjoy: Arrange on a platter, serve warm with dipping sauces like salsa or guacamole.
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