Crab and Shrimp Queso Wraps Recipe

Introduction

Crab Shrimp Queso is a delightful blend of creamy cheese and fresh seafood wrapped in a crispy tortilla. This recipe offers a perfect combination of flavors for a quick appetizer or satisfying snack. Ready in minutes, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Ingredients

• 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
• 8 small flour tortillas
• 2 tbsp butter or oil (for frying)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, shredded crab meat, Monterey Jack cheese, softened cream cheese, queso dip, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until well mixed and creamy.
2. Step 2: Place 2 to 3 tablespoons of the filling onto each tortilla, then roll them tightly and secure with a toothpick to hold the shape.
3. Step 3: Heat the butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the rolled tortillas until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
4. Step 4: Remove the toothpicks carefully, plate the quesos, and drizzle warm queso dip over the top for extra creaminess.
5. Step 5: Garnish with additional fresh cilantro and serve immediately while the cheese is warm and gooey.

Tips & Variations

• For a spicier kick, choose a spicy queso dip or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling mixture.
• Try using corn tortillas for a gluten-free option, but handle carefully as they are more delicate when rolling and frying.
• Leftover filling can be baked in a casserole dish topped with extra cheese for a tasty dip alternative.
• Serve with a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a side of salsa verde to brighten the flavors.

Storage

Store leftover quesos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy again, about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep the tortillas crisp.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp and crab for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to fully thaw and drain any excess moisture from the seafood before mixing to keep the filling creamy and not watery.

Is there a vegetarian alternative for this dish?

You can replace the shrimp and crab with sautéed mushrooms or seasoned jackfruit for a similar texture and flavor profile while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.

Crab and Shrimp Queso Wraps Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 135 reviews

Crab Shrimp Queso is a decadent and flavorful seafood-inspired appetizer featuring a creamy blend of cooked shrimp, crab meat, Monterey Jack cheese, cream cheese, and queso dip, wrapped in crispy fried flour tortillas. This dish offers a delightful combination of gooey cheese and tender seafood with a smoky and spicy kick, perfect for serving as a crowd-pleasing starter or party snack.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Mexican-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Seafood Mixture

• 1/2 lb cooked shrimp, finely chopped
• 1/2 lb cooked crab meat, shredded

Cheese and Flavorings

• 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

Assembly and Cooking

• 8 small flour tortillas
• 2 tbsp butter or oil (for frying)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the finely chopped cooked shrimp, shredded cooked crab meat, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, softened cream cheese, queso dip, chopped fresh cilantro, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix thoroughly until you have a creamy, evenly blended seafood and cheese mixture.
2. Assemble the Quesos: Spoon about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the filling onto each small flour tortilla. Roll the tortillas tightly around the filling and secure each with a toothpick to prevent them from opening during frying.
3. Fry the Tortillas: Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the rolled tortillas seam-side down and fry them, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Finish and Serve: Remove the fried quesos from the skillet and discard the toothpicks. Arrange them on a serving plate, drizzle warm queso dip over the top, sprinkle with additional fresh cilantro for garnish, and serve immediately while the cheese inside is hot and gooey.

Notes

• Ensure shrimp and crab are fully cooked before using in the filling.
• You can use mild or spicy queso dip according to your preferred heat level.
• If you prefer a lighter version, try baking the rolled tortillas instead of frying, coating them lightly with oil and baking at 400°F for 12-15 minutes until crispy.
• Serve with extra cilantro, lime wedges, or salsa for added flavor.
• Handle the fried quesos carefully as the filling will be very hot and gooey.

Keywords: Crab Shrimp Queso, seafood appetizer, fried tortillas, cheesy seafood dip, party appetizer, melted queso, Monterey Jack cheese