Crab Shrimp Queso Snack

Crab Shrimp Queso rolls bring together the best of fresh seafood and melty cheeses for a party snack that wows every time. These golden, crispy tortillas are filled with a creamy mixture of crab, shrimp, Monterey Jack, and cream cheese, then panfried to perfection and topped with warm queso dip. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a fun seafood treat, these bites deliver rich flavor and satisfying texture that disappear quickly from any table.

I first made these during a busy summer weekend when shrimp and crab were at their freshest and they instantly became a hit. Now, they’re my goto for any celebration where I want something easy, impressive, and downright delicious.

Ingredients

• Cooked shrimp: provides a mild sweetness and tender texture select plump shrimp without any fishy smell and chop finely for the best filling consistency
• Crab meat: adds delicate flavor that pairs beautifully with cheese choose moist and flaky crab rather than watery or mushy
• Monterey Jack cheese: melts smoothly and adds creamy richness buying a block and shredding it yourself gives better melt and flavor than preshredded
• Cream cheese: brings richness and helps bind the filling together use full fat cream cheese for the smoothest texture
• Queso dip: delivers warm cheesy goodness and a flavorful finish pick mild or spicy depending on your taste and look for a brand that melts without separating
• Fresh cilantro: brightens the filling with a fresh herb note choose fragrant, vibrant leaves without wilted stems
• Garlic powder: offers a subtle savory undertone opt for fresh, dry powder without any caking for best punch
• Smoked paprika: adds depth and a beautiful reddish hue use deep red paprika kept in an airtight container away from light to retain flavor
• Small flour tortillas: provide a soft yet sturdy wrap that crisps up nicely look for pliable tortillas with no cracks to avoid breakage while rolling
• Butter or oil: ensures golden crispiness during frying unsalted butter or a clean vegetable oil like canola works well

Instructions

Make the Filling:

Mix cooked shrimp, crab meat, shredded Monterey Jack, cream cheese, queso dip, chopped fresh cilantro, garlic powder, and smoked paprika together in a bowl until the mixture is creamy and well combined. Make sure the seafood is finely chopped and the filling sticks together but isn’t watery for easy rolling.

Roll the Tortillas:

Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon two to three tablespoons of the filling along the lower third of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly so the filling stays inside. Secure each roll by pushing a toothpick through the seam to lock it in place.

Fry Until Golden:

Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Place the rolled tortillas seam side down in the pan, working in batches if needed. Fry for two to three minutes per side, turning carefully, until every side is crispy and golden brown.

Finish and Serve:

Transfer the crispy rolls to a serving platter and gently remove the toothpicks. Warm some queso dip and drizzle it generously over the rolls. Sprinkle extra fresh cilantro on top for a bright garnish. Serve these warm straight from the pan so the cheese inside is melty and gooey for maximum enjoyment.

One of my favorite memories is watching my younger cousin’s face light up when I sliced open a hot roll and the cheesy filling spilled out. She was so obsessed she asked for these as her birthday party treat, and honestly I can’t blame her!

Storage Tips

Let leftover rolls cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, arrange the rolls on a baking sheet and warm them in a hot oven until the cheese is bubbly again. Avoid microwaving since it tends to make the tortilla soggy instead of crispy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh crab isn’t available use canned or imitation crab but the fresh kind gives the best flavor and texture. Mozzarella can replace Monterey Jack for a different melt and milder taste. For a dairyfree twist try a soybased cream cheese alternative. If you don’t have cilantro on hand fresh parsley works well too and won’t overpower the dish.

Serving Suggestions

These crispy queso rolls are great alongside a bowl of fresh salsa or a simple green salad to cut through the richness. For a festive party touch serve them with Tex Mex cocktails like margaritas or ranch water to keep the mood lively and fun.

Serve these rolls hot for melty cheese and a crispy shell. They’re sure to disappear fast at any gathering.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different cheeses in the filling?

Yes, melty cheeses like Colby Jack, cheddar, or a Mexican blend work well and can be substituted based on your preference.

→ How do I keep the rolls from unrolling during cooking?

Secure each rolled tortilla with a toothpick before pan-frying to hold the filling in place, and remove the toothpicks before serving.

→ Is it possible to prepare these ahead of time?

You can mix the filling and roll the tortillas in advance, then fry them right before serving to maintain crispness and melty cheese texture.

→ What side dishes complement these snacks best?

Fresh salsa, guacamole, or a simple green salad are excellent choices to balance the richness of the filling.

→ Can these rolls be frozen?

Assembled but unfried rolls can be frozen. Thaw them slightly before pan-frying to ensure even crisping and warm centers.