Description
Crab Shrimp Queso is a luscious, cheesy quesadilla packed with tender shrimp, succulent crab meat, and a blend of Monterey Jack and cream cheeses with a zesty queso dip. Perfectly fried until golden and gooey, this seafood quesadilla offers a flavorful, quick-to-make appetizer or main dish that’s sure to satisfy your cheesy cravings.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood Filling
- 1 cup cooked shrimp (finely chopped)
- 1 cup cooked crab meat
Cheese Mixture
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup queso dip (mild or spicy version)
Seasonings & Herbs
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
For Assembly & Cooking
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 2 tbsp butter or oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Combine the Filling: In a mixing bowl, add the finely chopped cooked shrimp, shredded crab meat, Monterey Jack cheese, softened cream cheese, queso dip, fresh chopped cilantro, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir all ingredients gently until thoroughly blended and creamy, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a skillet over medium heat and add butter or oil. Allow it to melt completely and coat the pan evenly to prepare for frying the quesadillas, preventing them from sticking and aiding in browning.
- Assemble the Quesadilla: Lay one small flour tortilla flat on the skillet. Spread a generous portion of the prepared filling mixture over half of the tortilla’s surface. Then carefully fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling, forming a neat semi-circle.
- Cook to Perfection: Let the quesadilla cook for approximately 2 to 3 minutes on each side. During this time, the tortilla will crisp up to a golden brown while the cheese melts perfectly inside. Monitor closely to avoid burning, using a spatula to flip gently.
- Repeat the Process: Continue assembling and cooking the remaining tortillas with the filling, stacking the cooked quesadillas on a plate and keeping them warm as you go to serve all warm and melty.
- Slice and Serve: Once all quesadillas are cooked, place them on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice each into wedges. Serve immediately while warm to enjoy the cheesy, seafood-filled goodness at its best.
Notes
- You can adjust the spice level of the queso dip to suit your taste preference, opting for mild or spicy.
- For a crispier quesadilla, use a non-stick skillet to ensure even browning without sticking.
- If you prefer, substitute the flour tortillas with corn tortillas for a gluten-free version, although texture and pliability may vary.
- Leftover quesadillas can be reheated in a skillet or oven to maintain crispiness, but are best enjoyed fresh.
- Ensure the seafood is fully cooked before starting, as this recipe only heats it through during quesadilla cooking.
