Hey busy moms, this recipe gives you a fast, family-friendly dinner that feels a little special with very little fuss. Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Taquitos come together quickly and deliver crunchy, melty bites kids love and adults enjoy too.
Keep this one for nights when you want something fun without long prep. Serve it with simple sides and you have a weeknight winner. If your crew likes bold, comforting flavors, pair these with a potato or sausage bake like Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage for an easy full meal.
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This Crab and Shrimp Taquitos Recipe
You make these taquitos in minutes and most of the work happens while the oil gets hot. The creamy crab and shrimp queso gives a rich, seafood flavor without fiddly steps. Kids enjoy the crunch and melted cheese, and adults get a tasty, slightly upscale twist on a classic.
You need just a few ingredients and one skillet. Prep stays minimal. The recipe holds up if you make a few extra for lunches or a quick snack later.
How to Make Crab and Shrimp Taquitos
Ingredients
8 small corn tortillas, 1 cup creamy crab and shrimp queso, 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend), Cooking oil for frying, Sour cream and salsa for serving
Directions
- Heat the tortillas in a skillet until warm and pliable., 2. Spoon a generous amount of the creamy crab and shrimp queso onto each tortilla., 3. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the filling., 4. Roll the tortillas tightly and secure with toothpicks if necessary., 5. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat., 6. Fry the taquitos in batches until golden brown and crunchy, about 3-4 minutes per side., 7. Drain on paper towels., 8. Serve warm with sour cream and salsa.
Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Taquitos
Quick and family-friendly taquitos filled with creamy crab and shrimp queso, delivering crunchy, melty bites that everyone will love.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup creamy crab and shrimp queso
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Cooking oil for frying
- Sour cream for serving
- Salsa for serving
Instructions
- Heat the tortillas in a skillet until warm and pliable.
- Spoon a generous amount of the creamy crab and shrimp queso onto each tortilla.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the filling.
- Roll the tortillas tightly and secure with toothpicks if necessary.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Fry the taquitos in batches until golden brown and crunchy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm with sour cream and salsa.
Notes
Tortillas can crack if not warmed properly. Secure with toothpicks for easier frying. Bake at 425°F for a lighter option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Pescatarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
How to Serve
Serve these taquitos hot and crunchy. Place a small bowl of sour cream and a bowl of chunky salsa on the table so everyone can top their own.
Add a simple side salad or steamed veggies for a quick, balanced plate. For a family-style meal, offer rice and beans or a quick coleslaw to keep things filling and kid-friendly.
How to Store
Cool leftovers to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven or air fryer for 5 to 8 minutes to bring back the crunch.
Do not microwave if you want them crispy. If you do microwave, follow with a quick pan sear or oven time to restore texture.
Tips and Variations
Warm the tortillas a little longer if they crack while you roll them. Soft tortillas roll easier and hold the filling better.
If you worry about spills, secure each taquito with a toothpick before frying. Fry in batches so the oil keeps a steady temperature and the taquitos brown evenly.
Swap in other fillings if you like. Try shredded rotisserie chicken and the same cheese for a family-friendly twist. For another kid-approved option, check out these easy Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for inspiration on handheld dinners.
Lighten up by baking at 425°F for 10 to 12 minutes, turning once until crisp. Brush tortillas lightly with oil before baking.
FAQs
Q: Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
A: Yes. Flour tortillas roll more easily and crisp up well.
Q: Can I make these ahead for a party?
A: Yes. Fry them, cool, then reheat in the oven just before serving.
Q: Is there a shortcut for the filling?
A: Use a store-bought seafood queso or a mix of cream cheese and cooked seafood to save time.
Conclusion
Give these Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Taquitos a try next busy night. They come together fast, please picky eaters, and make dinner feel fun without extra stress. Save this recipe for a quick family favorite.
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