Name: Seafood Taquitos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked shrimp, finely chopped; 1 cup cooked crab meat, shredded; 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup queso dip; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 8-10 small flour tortillas; 2-3 tablespoons butter or oil for frying

Jump to Recipe

Seafood Taquitos are the perfect combination of crispy tortillas and creamy, cheesy seafood filling. If you are looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that feels special but takes minimal effort, this recipe delivers every time. These golden, crunchy Taquitos are filled with rich Crab Meat, tender Shrimp, and smooth Queso, making them an irresistible party snack. Whether you are hosting game night, planning a gathering, or simply craving a flavorful appetizer, these Seafood Taquitos come together quickly and taste absolutely incredible.

Story

I first made these Seafood Taquitos on a busy weekend when I needed a reliable Party Snack that felt impressive but did not require hours in the kitchen. I already had cooked Shrimp and Crab Meat in the refrigerator, and I decided to turn them into crispy taquitos with a creamy queso filling. The result surprised everyone at the table.

Since then, Seafood Taquitos have become my go-to appetizer for gatherings. They offer the perfect contrast between crunchy tortillas and rich, cheesy seafood. Even better, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and fry them just before serving. Because they cook quickly, you can serve them hot and fresh without stress. Every bite delivers bold flavor, creamy texture, and satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

1 cup cooked shrimp, finely chopped
1 cup cooked crab meat, shredded
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
4 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup queso dip (mild or spicy)
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
8–10 small flour tortillas
2–3 tablespoons butter or oil, for frying

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Chop the cooked shrimp into small pieces to help the filling distribute evenly. Shred the crab meat gently, removing any shells if necessary. In a large mixing bowl, combine shrimp, crab meat, Monterey Jack cheese, and softened cream cheese. Add the queso dip, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. The filling should hold together but remain soft and spreadable.

Cooking Instructions

Place 2 to 3 tablespoons of the seafood mixture in the center of each tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly while tucking in the sides. Secure each roll with a toothpick. Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the rolled taquitos seam-side down in the hot skillet. Fry for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Remove toothpicks before serving and drizzle warm queso on top.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not overfill the tortillas, or they may burst while frying. Keep the oil at medium heat to prevent burning the outside before the inside heats through. Avoid using cold cream cheese, since it makes mixing difficult and can leave lumps in the filling.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten the seafood filling. If you enjoy heat, mix in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For extra crispiness, brush the tortillas lightly with oil before frying. You can also bake at 400°F for about 15 minutes if you prefer a lighter texture.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve Seafood Taquitos immediately while they are hot and crispy. Arrange them on a platter and drizzle with warm queso. Garnish with extra chopped cilantro. They pair beautifully with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. These taquitos work perfectly as an Appetizer or festive party snack.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the tortillas.

Conclusion

Seafood Taquitos combine creamy crab shrimp queso filling with perfectly crispy tortillas for a dish that always impresses. They are simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and ideal for any gathering. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a favorite in your appetizer rotation.

Discover more delicious recipes by following me on Facebook and Pinterest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Seafood Taquitos ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the filling up to one day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and fry just before serving for the best texture.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Absolutely. Place the rolled taquitos on a baking sheet, brush lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F for about 15 minutes until crispy and golden.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Yes, but warm them first to prevent cracking. Corn tortillas provide a slightly different texture but still taste delicious with the seafood filling.