Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos
Highlighted under: Globetrotter Food Guide
Delight in these Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos, a perfect blend of seafood and creamy cheese wrapped in a crispy tortilla. Ideal for appetizers or game day snacks!
These Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos are not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. The combination of fresh crab and succulent shrimp, paired with melty cheese, creates a mouthwatering experience. Perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich seafood flavor wrapped in a crispy shell
- Creamy, cheesy filling that keeps you coming back for more
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for any occasion
A Flavorful Fusion
Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos are not just a meal; they are a culinary experience. The combination of fresh crab meat and succulent shrimp creates a rich seafood flavor that's hard to resist. Each bite is a delightful surprise, showcasing the best of the ocean wrapped in a crispy tortilla shell. Whether you're hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, these taquitos will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
The addition of queso cheese adds a creamy texture that complements the seafood perfectly. As the cheese melts during frying, it binds the filling together, making every taquito a cheesy delight. The subtle kick from the chili powder and garlic powder adds depth to the flavor profile, making these taquitos a real treat for your taste buds.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're looking for an appetizer for a festive gathering or a game day snack, these taquitos fit the bill. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to share, and they pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. Think tangy salsa, creamy avocado dip, or zesty lime crema; the options are endless! These taquitos are versatile enough to serve at casual get-togethers or upscale dinner parties.
Additionally, their quick preparation time means you can whip them up in no time. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious dish ready to go, allowing you to focus on enjoying the moment with your friends and family. The satisfaction of serving homemade taquitos will elevate your hosting game!
Customization Ideas
One of the great things about taquitos is their versatility. Feel free to customize the filling according to your preferences. For instance, you can add diced jalapeños for an extra kick or substitute the crab with other seafood like lobster or scallops. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, swap the seafood with a hearty mix of black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers for a vibrant alternative.
Don’t forget about the toppings! After frying, consider garnishing your taquitos with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or crumbled queso fresco. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also create a visually appealing dish that will have your guests reaching for seconds.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious taquitos:
For the Taquitos
- 1 cup cooked crab meat
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup queso cheese, shredded
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready for assembly before starting.
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos:
Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, chopped shrimp, shredded queso cheese, green onions, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
Assemble the Taquitos
Warm the corn tortillas slightly to make them pliable. Spoon a generous amount of the filling onto each tortilla, then roll them tightly and secure with a toothpick if necessary.
Fry the Taquitos
In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Fry the taquitos in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Serve
Remove toothpicks if used, and serve the taquitos hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Enjoy your crispy taquitos fresh from the pan!
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftover taquitos, you can easily store them for later enjoyment. Allow the taquitos to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven to retain their crispiness.
For longer storage, consider freezing them before frying. Arrange the rolled taquitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. When you're ready to cook, there's no need to thaw; just fry them straight from the freezer, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.
Pairing Suggestions
To elevate your meal experience, consider pairing these Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos with refreshing beverages. A light, zesty margarita or a crisp Mexican lager would complement the flavors beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, a citrus-infused sparkling water can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich taquitos.
Additionally, serving a simple salad on the side can enhance the meal. A fresh avocado and tomato salad drizzled with lime juice and olive oil adds a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the taquitos. These pairings will ensure a well-rounded dining experience that everyone will enjoy.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and fry the taquitos just before serving.
→ What can I substitute for crab meat?
You can use imitation crab, or for a vegetarian option, try using sautéed mushrooms or beans.
→ How do I keep the taquitos crispy?
Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying and avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain the temperature.
→ Can I bake these taquitos instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes until crispy, brushing them with a little oil beforehand.
Crispy Crab And Shrimp Queso Taquitos
Delight in these Crispy Crab and Shrimp Queso Taquitos, a perfect blend of seafood and creamy cheese wrapped in a crispy tortilla. Ideal for appetizers or game day snacks!
Created by: Ella
Recipe Type: Globetrotter Food Guide
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Taquitos
- 1 cup cooked crab meat
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup queso cheese, shredded
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, chopped shrimp, shredded queso cheese, green onions, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
Warm the corn tortillas slightly to make them pliable. Spoon a generous amount of the filling onto each tortilla, then roll them tightly and secure with a toothpick if necessary.
In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Fry the taquitos in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Remove toothpicks if used, and serve the taquitos hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g