Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos
Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos combine tender seafood, melty queso cheese, and a crunchy golden shell for a quick, flavorful appetizer or meal. Perfect for busy nights, snacks, or entertaining, these taquitos offer a savory seafood delight with a satisfying crunch and creamy cheese goodness in every bite.
- Author: Kathy
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 10 taquitos 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Frying or Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using corn tortillas)
Seafood and Cheese Filling
- 1 cup canned lump crab meat, flaked and drained
- 1 cup small cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup queso cheese, shredded or crumbled
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Taquito Shells & Cooking
- 10 medium-sized flour tortillas (or corn tortillas for gluten-free)
- Cooking oil, for frying or spraying before baking
- Prepare the Filling: Combine the flaked crab meat, chopped cooked shrimp, queso cheese, sliced green onions, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix thoroughly until the cheese is evenly distributed and the flavors meld.
- Assemble the Taquitos: Warm the tortillas slightly to make them pliable. Spoon about two tablespoons of the seafood and cheese filling near the edge of each tortilla. Roll tightly and secure with a toothpick if needed to keep them from unrolling during cooking.
- Cook Until Crispy: Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the taquitos for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crunchy. Alternatively, lightly brush or spray the taquitos with oil and bake in a 425°F (220°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Drain and Serve: Remove taquitos from the oil and drain on paper towels to absorb excess grease. Let cool slightly before serving to enjoy the perfect crunchy texture with warm, cheesy seafood inside.
Notes
- Don’t overfill the tortillas to prevent bursting during cooking.
- Seal the edges of tortillas with a little water or egg wash for a tighter wrap.
- Use fresh or well-drained canned seafood for the best texture and flavor.
- Maintain consistent oil temperature when frying for even crispiness.
- Drain on paper towels after frying to keep taquitos from becoming soggy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 taquitos
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: crab, shrimp, taquitos, seafood appetizer, queso, crispy, cheesy, quick snack, gluten free option, Mexican