Description
Cheesy seafood rolls for the ultimate easy dinner win! These Crab Shrimp Queso Tubes are a delightful combination of succulent seafood, creamy cheeses, and a hint of spice, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or a fun, easy dinner.
Ingredients:
- 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
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 2 tbsp butter or oil (for frying)
Preparation:
Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, shredded crab meat, Monterey Jack cheese, softened cream cheese, queso dip, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed, creating a creamy and cheesy seafood mixture. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more garlic powder or paprika to taste.
Step 2: Lay out the flour tortillas on a clean, flat surface. Evenly distribute the seafood mixture among the tortillas, placing about 2-3 tablespoons of filling in the center of each tortilla. Be careful not to overfill the tortillas, as this can cause them to tear during rolling.
Step 3: Tightly roll each tortilla around the filling, ensuring the ends are tucked in to prevent the filling from spilling out. Secure each rolled tortilla with a toothpick to hold it together during frying. This will help maintain the shape and prevent the filling from oozing out.
Step 4: Heat the butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the rolled tortillas into the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the tortillas for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Remove the fried tortillas from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Allow them to cool slightly before removing the toothpicks. Once the toothpicks are removed, plate the Crab Shrimp Queso Tubes and drizzle warm queso over the top. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve immediately while the cheese is gooey and irresistible.
Why you’ll love this recipe:
This recipe is incredibly easy to make and requires minimal cooking skills. It’s a crowd-pleaser, offering a unique and flavorful combination of seafood and cheesy goodness. The crispy tortillas provide a satisfying crunch, while the creamy filling melts in your mouth. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to your liking, with options to adjust the spice level or add additional toppings.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer with a side of sour cream or guacamole.
- Pair with a fresh salad for a light and balanced meal.
- Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as salsa, ranch dressing, or a spicy mayo.
- Garnish with additional toppings like jalapeños, avocado, or a squeeze of lime juice.
Tips:
- These can be made ahead of time and fried just before serving. Prepare the filling and roll the tortillas, then store them in the refrigerator until ready to fry.
- Adjust the spice level of the queso dip to your preference. Use mild queso for a milder flavor or spicy queso for an extra kick.
- Use high-quality crab meat and shrimp for the best flavor. Fresh seafood will make a significant difference in the overall taste of the dish.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying the tortillas. Fry them in batches to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.
- Keep the tortillas warm in a low oven until ready to serve, especially if making a large batch.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information: (Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving (2 tubes)
- Protein: 20-25g
- Sodium: 500-600mg
Conclusion:
Crab Shrimp Queso Tubes are a delicious and easy-to-make recipe that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of seafood, cheese, and spices creates a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or main course, these cheesy seafood rolls are sure to be a hit!
5 Questions and Answers about this recipe:
Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp and crab meat for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp and crab meat. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before using them in the recipe.
Q2: Can I bake these instead of frying them?
A: Yes, you can bake them. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the rolled tortillas on a baking sheet, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Q3: Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, onions, or corn to the filling for added flavor and texture.
Q4: What can I use instead of queso dip?
A: If you don’t have queso dip, you can substitute it with a creamy cheese sauce or a combination of melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
Q5: Can I make these ahead of time and freeze them?
A: Yes, you can make these ahead of time and freeze them. Roll the tortillas, secure them with toothpicks, and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to serve, thaw them completely and fry them as directed in the recipe.
