Crab Shrimp Queso: The Ultimate Party Snack Recipe
Crab Shrimp Queso quesadillas are the ultimate party snack combining succulent seafood with creamy cheeses and bold spices. This recipe features a blend of finely chopped cooked shrimp, shredded crab meat, Monterey Jack, cream cheese, and queso dip, all rolled into small flour tortillas then fried to a golden, crunchy perfection. Finished with a drizzle of warm queso and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, these seafood quesadillas are perfect for gatherings and bursting with irresistible flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 quesadillas 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood & Cheese Filling
- 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
Quesadillas
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 2 tbsp butter or oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped cooked shrimp, shredded crab meat, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, softened cream cheese, queso dip, chopped fresh cilantro, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended to create a creamy, cheesy seafood filling with a hint of smoky spice.
- Assemble the quesadillas: Lay out each small flour tortilla and spoon about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the seafood filling onto one side of each tortilla. Carefully roll each tortilla tightly to enclose the filling, then secure each roll with a toothpick to keep them intact during frying.
- Fry the quesadillas: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the rolled tortillas seam side down into the skillet. Fry them, turning occasionally, until all sides become golden brown and crunchy, usually about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
- Serve: Remove the toothpicks from the fried quesadillas and arrange them on a serving plate. Drizzle warm queso dip over the top generously to add extra creaminess and flavor. Garnish with additional fresh chopped cilantro and serve immediately while the cheese is melty and irresistible.
Notes
- Use cooked and chilled shrimp and crab meat to avoid overcooking during frying.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, choose a spicy queso dip.
- Ensure the tortillas are rolled tightly to prevent filling from leaking while frying.
- Serve these quesadillas immediately for best texture and flavor, as they are crispiest right out of the skillet.
- To make them easier to handle, let the cream cheese soften completely before mixing.
Keywords: crab shrimp quesadillas, seafood quesadillas, party snacks, queso dip, fried quesadillas, appetizer recipe, seafood snack
