If you’re looking for a show-stopping appetizer that’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with rich seafood flavor — this Crab Shrimp Queso is your new go-to! With succulent shrimp, flaky crab meat, and melty cheese wrapped in a crispy tortilla, these handheld delights are exactly what your party menu has been missing. Ready in just 25 minutes, they disappear fast… so you may want to make a double batch!
½ lb cooked shrimp, finely chopped
½ lb cooked crab meat, shredded
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
½ cup cream cheese, softened
½ cup queso dip (mild or spicy)
1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp smoked paprika
8 small flour tortillas
2 tbsp butter or oil (for frying)
1️⃣ Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine shrimp, crab, Monterey Jack, cream cheese, queso dip, cilantro, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
2️⃣ Fill & Roll
Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of the mixture into each tortilla.
Roll tightly and secure with a toothpick to prevent unrolling.
3️⃣ Crisp Them Up
Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Fry the stuffed tortillas until golden and crispy on all sides.
4️⃣ Serve & Enjoy
Remove toothpicks, drizzle extra warm queso over the top, garnish with cilantro, and serve immediately while gooey and delicious!
Can be assembled ahead of time — fry right before serving for peak crispiness.
Spice it up by choosing spicy queso, adding jalapeños, or a dash of cayenne.
Serve with sour cream, pico de gallo, or sliced avocado for flavor contrast.
Swap flour tortillas for street-size corn for extra crunch and taco-style vibes.