Dinner

Crab Shrimp Queso: The Ultimate Party Snack Recipe

Name: Crab Shrimp Queso: The Ultimate Party Snack Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
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)

Byreem everly January 4, 2026January 4, 2026

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Introduction

Crab Shrimp Queso is the ultimate party snack that combines creamy, cheesy seafood flavors with a satisfying crunch. Perfect for gatherings, these rolled and fried tortillas are filled with a delicious blend of crab, shrimp, and cheese that’ll thrill any Tex-Mex lover.

A stack of seven golden brown crispy rolled tortillas filled with a creamy white sauce mixed with small shrimp and chopped green herbs, with one roll on top and the others arranged in two rows below it. The crispy edges of the rolls are slightly browned and the creamy filling oozes out from the ends, mixing with fresh green herb pieces scattered around. The rolls are placed on white parchment over a white marbled surface, creating a warm and inviting look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

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. Mix until well blended into a creamy, cheesy filling.
Step 2: Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of the filling onto each tortilla. Roll each tortilla tightly around the filling and secure with a toothpick.
Step 3: Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the rolled tortillas, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crunchy on all sides.
Step 4: Remove the toothpicks, place the quesos on a serving plate, and drizzle warm queso dip over the top.
Step 5: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve immediately while the cheese inside is warm and gooey.

Tips & Variations

You can prepare the filled tortillas ahead of time and fry them just before serving to save time.
Adjust the spiciness by choosing mild or spicy queso dip according to your preference.
Add jalapeños, avocado slices, or a squeeze of lime on the side for extra flavor and freshness.

Storage

Store any leftover fried rolled quesos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the tortillas soggy.

How to Serve

A close-up view of six golden-brown crispy rolled taquitos stacked in a pyramid shape on white paper, each filled with creamy white sauce mixed with small pieces of orange shrimp and bits of green herbs. The golden rolls have a crunchy texture with some darker brown spots, and creamy sauce drips slightly from the bottom taquitos. Small green herb pieces are scattered around the taquitos on the white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh shrimp and crab instead of cooked?

Fresh shrimp and crab need to be cooked first before using in this recipe to ensure safety and the right texture. You can boil, steam, or sauté them before chopping and mixing into the filling.

What can I serve with Crab Shrimp Queso?

These quesos pair well with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or a fresh side salad. For a complete party spread, consider serving alongside chips, pico de gallo, and pickled jalapeños.