As the aroma of sizzling taquitos fills the kitchen, there’s a comforting warmth that wraps around you like a favorite blanket. Let me introduce you to my Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos—an irresistible fusion that takes taco night to a whole new level. With creamy, flavorful filling made from crab and shrimp, these taquitos not only bring a delightful crunch but also elevate your gatherings into something special. Quick to assemble and easier to share, they make for a perfect snack or appetizer that everyone will love. Ready to impress your friends and family with these delicious bites? Grab your apron, and let's dive into this mouthwatering adventure!

Why are these taquitos a must-try?

Crispy Texture: Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy filling.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of crab, shrimp, and spices creates a deliciously rich taste that dances on your palate.
Quick Assembly: With just a few simple steps, you can whip these up effortlessly, saving time while impressing your guests.
Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for parties or game day, these taquitos will quickly disappear, leaving everyone wanting more!
For a sweet finish after these savory delights, consider making some Red Velvet Sandwich or Pumpkin Smores Cookies to keep the celebration going!

Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos Ingredients

• Get ready to dive into these flavor-packed bites!

For the Filling
• Cream cheese – adds a creamy richness that binds all the flavors together.
• Lump crab meat – provides a sweet, delicate touch that enhances the overall taste.
• Cooked shrimp – brings a succulent texture that complements the crab beautifully.
• Shredded Mexican cheese blend – melts perfectly, creating a cheesy delight in every bite.
• Lime juice – brightens the flavor and adds a refreshing zing.
• Chili powder – introduces a hint of spice that elevates the dish.
• Ground cumin – adds a warm, earthy note that rounds out the flavors.
• Smoked paprika – lends a subtle smokiness that enhances the overall complexity.
• Salt – amplifies the flavors and ties the ingredients together.
• Black pepper – adds a bit of heat to complement the other spices.

For the Taquitos
• Small flour tortillas – the perfect vessel, soft and pliable for rolling.
• Vegetable oil – used for frying to achieve that irresistible crispy texture.

For Garnish
• Fresh cilantro – adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.

These Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos are a delicious way to enjoy a special evening!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos

Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 4 ounces of drained and flaked lump crab meat, 4 ounces of chopped cooked shrimp, and 1 cup of shredded Mexican cheese blend. Add 1 tablespoon of lime juice, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, ½ teaspoon of ground cumin, ¼ teaspoon of smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.

Step 2: Warm the Tortillas
To make the tortillas pliable for rolling, warm them in the microwave for about 10 seconds or on a hot skillet for 30 seconds. This step is essential to prevent tearing when you fill them. Once warm, keep them covered with a clean kitchen towel to retain moisture while you prepare the Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos.

Step 3: Assemble the Taquitos
Take one tortilla at a time and spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of the crab and shrimp filling into the center. Roll it tightly, ensuring the filling is well secured inside, and place the seam side down to hold its shape. Repeat this for all 12 tortillas, arranging them in a single layer on a plate as you go.

Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers, usually around 350°F. This oil temperature is key to achieving that perfect crispiness in your taquitos. Use a thermometer if you have one, or carefully test by dropping a small piece of tortilla in the oil; it should sizzle immediately.

Step 5: Fry the Taquitos
Carefully add the assembled taquitos to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, turning them with tongs until they are golden brown and crispy. The beautiful color is the perfect indicator that they're ready to be removed from the oil.

Step 6: Drain Excess Oil
Once the taquitos are golden and crisp, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This will keep them crispy without being greasy. Allow the Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos to cool for a minute or two before moving on to garnishing.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
To elevate the presentation, sprinkle the warm taquitos with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately for the best taste, pairing them with your favorite dipping sauces for an extra touch. These taquitos are best enjoyed fresh and hot, perfect for sharing with family and friends!

What to Serve with Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos

As you savor each crispy bite of taquitos, consider these perfect pairings that will enhance your meal’s festive vibe.

Zesty Guacamole: A creamy avocado dip adds a refreshing contrast and enhances the taquitos' flavors.
Spicy Salsa: A vibrant blend of tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños provides a tangy kick that complements the creamy filling.
Mexican Rice: Fluffy and flavorful, this dish offers a hearty base that balances the crispiness of the taquitos. A touch of lime elevates the experience!
Black Bean Salad: Packed with fresh herbs and zesty lime, this salad brings a refreshing crunch and a boost of fiber to your plate.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, slathered in butter and sprinkled with chili powder, it adds a sweet, smoky dimension to the meal.
Chilled Tequila Cocktail: A light, citrusy drink pairs perfectly with the delicious seafood flavors, making every bite more enjoyable.
Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch and creaminess perfectly contrast with the taquitos, offering an extra layer of texture and flavor.
Chocolate Flan: For dessert, indulge in this rich and velvety custard, adding a touch of elegance to your meal.
Margaritas: A classic pairing, these refreshing cocktails cut through the richness of the taquitos with their citrusy zest.

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos

Fridge: Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag after they harden. They last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat frozen taquitos, bake them from frozen at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Wrapping: If storing cooked taquitos, wrap them tightly in parchment paper to maintain crunchiness for the best Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the filling—combining cream cheese, crab meat, shrimp, and spices—up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its fresh flavor. Additionally, you can roll the taquitos and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before frying. To ensure they stay crispy, heat your oil just before frying and cook them in batches for best results. When you're ready to serve, fry until golden brown, and you'll enjoy restaurant-quality taquitos with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos

• Choose Quality Seafood: Always opt for fresh lump crab meat and high-quality shrimp for the best flavor in your Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos.

• Warm Tortillas Properly: Warming your tortillas is essential to prevent tearing. A quick microwave or skillet session works wonders!

• Control Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is at the right temperature (around 350°F) to achieve that golden, crispy taquito exterior. Too hot and they burn; too low and they become greasy.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the taquitos in batches to keep the oil temperature consistent and allow for even cooking all around, resulting in a perfectly crispy texture.

• Drain Well: Transfer your crispy taquitos to a paper towel-lined plate immediately after frying to remove excess oil, ensuring they stay crunchy and light.

• Serve Fresh: For the best taste experience, serve the Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos right after frying, as they lose their crunch when left to sit.

Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos Variations

Feel free to take my Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos and give them your own twist; the culinary adventure awaits!

Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a plant-based alternative like cashew cream for a creamy, dairy-free filling.
Spicy Kick: Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a zesty surprise that adds warmth and excitement.
Texture Twist: Swap out the flour tortillas with crunchy corn tortillas for an extra crispy bite that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
Seafood Medley: Use a combination of crab, shrimp, and some diced scallops for a rich seafood flavor that will delight every seafood lover.
Herb Infusion: Mix in some fresh chopped herbs like dill or chives into the filling for a fresh twist that brightens the entire dish.
Sweet and Spicy: Incorporate a touch of mango salsa as a topping to add a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory taquitos.
Veggie Option: For a vegetarian twist, replace the seafood with sautéed mushrooms and spinach, making a delightful and hearty filling.
Baked Taquitos: Brush the assembled taquitos with olive oil and bake them at 400°F for 20 minutes instead of frying for a lighter take on this classic dish.

These variations not only elevate your meal but also keep every gathering exciting! For a perfect sweet finish, consider pairing these with some delightful Lavender Lemon Sandwich for a dreamy dessert.

Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best seafood for my taquitos?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, always choose high-quality lump crab meat and fresh shrimp. If you’re using frozen shrimp, ensure they're fully thawed and drained before cooking. Look for crab meat that is sweet and moist, avoiding any that appears dry or discolored.

How should I store leftover taquitos?
To keep them fresh, store leftover Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes to restore their crispy texture.

Can I freeze these taquitos?
Absolutely! To freeze uncooked taquitos, Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until firm, usually around 1-2 hours. Once they are solid, transfer them to a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They can last up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

What if my taquitos are soggy after frying?
No problem! If your taquitos turn out soggy, it likely means they were not drained properly. After frying, always place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Additionally, ensure the oil temperature is around 350°F while frying, as too low of a temperature can cause them to absorb more oil.

Are these taquitos safe for people with shellfish allergies?
It's important to note that the main ingredients in Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos—crab and shrimp—are shellfish. If anyone in your family has a shellfish allergy, I recommend substituting the seafood with something like shredded chicken or beans to keep the dish safe and delicious.

How can I make these taquitos healthier?
For a healthier version of Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos, try using whole-wheat tortillas instead of regular flour ones and bake them in the oven at 400°F for a crisp texture without frying. You can also reduce the cream cheese and use Greek yogurt in its place for a lighter filling while keeping the flavors vibrant.