Every time I make Crab Shrimp Queso, it takes me back to those warm summer evenings spent with friends gathered around the grill, laughter mingling with the scent of the ocean breeze. There’s something truly magical about sharing a delicious dip while the sun sets and the fireflies start to dance. This queso dip is not just a recipe for me; it’s a vessel for memories, a way to bring people together, just like my family did when I was growing up.

This dish is perfect for any occasion — whether you’re hosting a game night, celebrating a birthday, or just looking for a cozy movie marathon treat. It’s creamy, indulgent, and packed with flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. Plus, it comes together so quickly, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy it with your loved ones. Trust me, once you take that first scoop, you’ll understand why Crab Shrimp Queso is a staple in my kitchen!

Why You’ll Love "Crab Shrimp Queso"

Comes together in just 20 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Uses simple, minimal ingredients that you can easily find at any grocery store.
Family-friendly and kid-approved; even picky eaters can’t resist this creamy dip!
Can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion.
Leftovers (if there are any!) can be stored and enjoyed later, or even frozen for future cravings.
Perfect as an appetizer for parties or as a cozy snack during movie marathons.

Ingredients You’ll Need

½ lb cooked shrimp, finely chopped (feel free to use frozen shrimp; just thaw and chop!)
½ lb cooked crab meat, shredded (canned crab works well if fresh isn’t available)
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or substitute with cheddar for a sharper flavor)
½ cup cream cheese, softened (let it sit at room temperature for easy mixing)
½ cup queso dip (choose mild or spicy based on your heat preference)
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (for a burst of freshness; optional if you’re not a fan)
½ teaspoon garlic powder (adds a nice depth of flavor)
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (gives a lovely smoky touch)
8 small flour tortillas (corn tortillas can also be used for a gluten-free option)
2 tablespoon butter or oil (for frying; I prefer butter for that rich flavor!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped shrimp, shredded crab meat, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, softened cream cheese, and the queso dip.
Sprinkle in the chopped cilantro, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir everything together until well combined. Don’t worry if it looks a little messy — that just means it’s going to be delicious!

Heat the Skillet

Grab a skillet and add the butter or oil. Heat it over medium heat until melted and shimmering, which usually takes about a minute.
Once the skillet is hot, you’re ready to move on to the next step. Just a quick note — keep an eye on the heat so it doesn’t get too hot and burn your tortillas!

Assemble the Queso Tortillas

Take a small flour tortilla and spoon a generous amount of the filling mixture onto the center. Don’t be shy — you want it to be packed with flavor!
Carefully fold the tortilla in half, making sure to seal the edges as best as you can. If you want to be extra cautious, you can use a bit of the filling to help seal them together.
Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling until everything is assembled. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this comes together!

Fry the Tortillas

Once your skillet is ready, add the folded tortillas in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan; it’s better to fry them in smaller groups for that perfect golden brown.
Fry each side for about 2-3 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy. You’ll know they’re ready when you see that beautiful color and smell that irresistible aroma wafting through the kitchen.
When done, remove the tortillas from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve warm and watch your friends and family dive in!

Variations

For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling.
Try using crab rangoons instead of tortillas for a crunchy twist.
Substitute the Monterey Jack cheese with pepper jack for a zesty flavor.
Make it dairy-free by using vegan cream cheese and cheese alternatives.
Add seasonal veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve your Crab Shrimp Queso warm, alongside fresh salsa or guacamole for dipping. Tortilla chips also make a great crunchy accompaniment! For a fun presentation, arrange the quesadillas on a platter with cut-up veggies or pickled jalapeños for that extra flair.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the quesadillas for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply pop them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy again!

Helpful Notes

For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat cheese.
If you're allergic to shellfish, try using shredded chicken or grilled vegetables instead of crab and shrimp.
Feel free to add in some diced tomatoes or green onions for extra flavor.
Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing.
You can swap the butter for olive oil for a healthier frying option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Crab Shrimp Queso?

Yes, you can freeze Crab Shrimp Queso! Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in a skillet or microwave.

What can I use instead of crab meat?

If you’re looking for a substitute for crab meat, cooked chicken or even grilled vegetables work great! You can also use canned tuna in a pinch. Just make sure to adjust the flavors accordingly, so they complement the dish well.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To amp up the heat, you can add diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce into the filling mix. If you want an even bolder flavor, try using pepper jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack for that extra kick.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, my beloved Crab Shrimp Queso! I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and create your own memories around the table. Whether you’re sharing it with friends during a game night or enjoying it on a cozy movie evening, I promise it’ll bring smiles and satisfy those cravings. Cooking is all about the love and joy we put into it, and this dip is no exception. So roll up your sleeves, dive into the kitchen, and let the deliciousness unfold. Happy cooking, my friend!

Crab Shrimp Queso

Author: Emily Parker
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A creamy and flavorful crab shrimp queso dip served with tortillas.

Instructions

In a bowl, mix shrimp, crab meat, Monterey Jack cheese, cream cheese, and queso dip.
Add cilantro, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until well combined.
Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Spoon the mixture onto each tortilla and fold them.
Fry the tortillas in the skillet until golden brown on both sides.
Remove from heat and serve warm.

Notes

Adjust spice level by choosing mild or spicy queso dip.
Serve with salsa or guacamole if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 300
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Crab Shrimp Queso, Queso Dip, Seafood Dip