Go Back
+ servings
Crab Shrimp Queso Bites

Crispy Crab Shrimp Queso Bites for Irresistible Snacking

These Crispy Crab Shrimp Queso Bites are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer for any gathering!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8 bites
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 225 g Cooked Shrimp Provides seafood flavor and texture; substitute with extra crab for a milder bite.
  • 225 g Crab Meat Shredded to enhance the seafood profile; canned crab (drained well) works in a pinch.
  • 120 g Monterey Jack Cheese Melts creamy, adding richness while balancing seafood flavor.
  • 120 g Cream Cheese Provides added richness and creaminess; use reduced-fat for a lighter option.
  • 120 ml Queso Dip Gives the center a deliciously gooey texture; opt for mild or spicy based on your heat preference.
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Cilantro Adds a pop of freshness and flavor to the filling.
  • 0.5 tsp Garlic Powder Infuses depth of flavor into the mixture.
  • 0.25 tsp Smoked Paprika Introduces a hint of smoky warmth to enhance the taste.
For the Wrapping
  • 8 small Flour Tortillas Soft wraps for rolling and frying; choose corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
For Frying
  • 2 tbsp Butter/Neutral Oil Adds crispiness and flavor when frying the bites.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Skillet
  • toothpicks

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine 225 g of cooked shrimp, 225 g of shredded crab meat, 120 g of Monterey Jack cheese, and 120 g of cream cheese. Mix in 120 ml of queso dip, 1 tablespoon of fresh cilantro, 0.5 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 0.25 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Stir until the mixture is creamy and well-blended, ensuring that all the flavors come together beautifully.
  2. Take 8 small flour tortillas and lay them flat on a clean surface. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the filling mixture onto each tortilla, making sure to distribute it evenly. Roll the tortillas tightly around the filling, tucking in the sides as you go to prevent spillage. Secure each roll with a toothpick to hold it together and set them aside for frying.
  3. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter or neutral oil over medium heat until it shimmers, indicating it's ready for frying. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Ensure the oil is hot enough to achieve a crispy texture for the crab shrimp queso bites, but not smoking to avoid burning them.
  4. Carefully place the rolled tortillas into the hot skillet, cooking them in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally for even cooking.
  5. Once fried to perfection, remove the crab shrimp queso bites from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Carefully remove toothpicks and arrange the bites on a serving platter. Drizzle with warm queso and garnish with additional cilantro before serving immediately while still hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1biteCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 8gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

These bites can be made ahead of time, allowing for stress-free entertaining—just heat them up before serving!

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!