Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Taquitos

why make this recipe

Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Taquitos are a delightful dish that brings together fresh seafood flavors with a cheesy, creamy filling wrapped in crispy tortillas. This recipe is perfect for parties, snacks, or even a light dinner. They are easy to make, and everyone will love the combination of crab and shrimp. Plus, they are a great way to impress guests while being super simple to prepare!

how to make Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Taquitos

Ingredients:

• 8 corn tortillas
• 1 cup crab meat
• 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1/4 cup diced green onions
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

Directions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine crab meat, chopped shrimp, cream cheese, shredded cheese, green onions, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Warm the corn tortillas in a separate pan until pliable.
4. Spoon a portion of the filling onto each tortilla and then roll tightly into a taquito shape.
5. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the taquitos in the skillet, seam-side down. Fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
6. Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve warm with salsa or guacamole.

how to serve Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Taquitos

Serve these taquitos warm, straight from the skillet. Pair them with fresh salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping. They make a great appetizer or snack for gatherings or game days. For a complete meal, consider serving them with a side salad or some Mexican rice.

how to store Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Taquitos

If you have leftovers, store the taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but they may become a little soggy.

tips to make Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Taquitos

• Make sure the tortillas are warm so they are easier to roll without cracking.
• Customize the filling by adding your favorite spices or other seafood like lobster.
• For extra crunch, you can bake the taquitos instead of frying them. Brush them with a little oil and bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

variation

You can create a vegetarian version of these taquitos by omitting the crab and shrimp and substituting them with vegetables like bell peppers, black beans, or spinach. Additionally, you can experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack for an extra kick.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Yes, you can make the filling a few hours ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble and fry the taquitos when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Taquitos?
Yes! You can freeze the taquitos before frying. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Fry them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

3. What can I serve with Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Taquitos?
These taquitos pair well with traditional Mexican sides like rice, beans, or a fresh salad. They also taste great with dipping sauces like salsa, guacamole, or a spicy aioli.