If you are craving a dish that bursts with seafood goodness and oozy cheese wrapped in a delightfully crispy shell, you are in for a treat with the Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Tortilla Bombs Recipe. This dish combines tender crab meat and succulent shrimp with creamy cheddar and cream cheese, all hugged by a warm, golden tortilla shell that’s fried to perfection. It’s the kind of appetizer or party dish that everyone will rave about after just one bite, bringing together bold flavors and luxurious textures in a way that feels both festive and comforting. Once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become a favorite to whip up whenever you want to impress guests or indulge yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients for this recipe is refreshingly simple, yet every component plays an essential role in building those irresistible layers of flavor and texture. From the tender seafood to the cheeses that provide that perfect melt, each one contributes to making these tortilla bombs unforgettable.
- Cooked crab meat, 1 cup: Use fresh or high-quality canned crab for the best flavor and flaky texture.
- Cooked shrimp, 1 cup: Chopped into bite-sized pieces to mix evenly with the crab.
- Cream cheese, 1 cup (softened): Adds a rich, creamy base binding the seafood together.
- Shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup: Melts beautifully for that gooey, cheesy goodness inside.
- Green onions, 1/2 cup (chopped): Provides a fresh, mild bite and a pop of color.
- Garlic powder, 1 teaspoon: Infuses subtle warmth and depth to the mix.
- Old Bay seasoning, 1 teaspoon: Classic seafood seasoning that enhances the natural flavors.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, balancing and elevating the flavors.
- Small flour tortillas, 12: Soft and pliable for easy folding into perfect little bombs.
- Oil for frying: Enough for deep frying, choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola or vegetable oil.
How to Make Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Tortilla Bombs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by combining all your seafood and cheeses in a large mixing bowl. The cream cheese should be softened to help everything bind easily and create a smooth, creamy mix. Add your green onions, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper, then fold everything together until you have a uniform, luscious filling packed with flavor.
Step 2: Assemble the Bombs
Lay each tortilla flat and spoon about 2 to 3 tablespoons of your seafood and cheese filling into the center. Fold the sides over the filling carefully, then roll the tortilla tightly to create a bomb-shaped pocket. This shape not only looks fun but helps keep all that cheesy, crabby goodness tucked nicely inside. Repeat this process with all the tortillas and filling.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Pour enough oil into a deep skillet or fryer to fully submerge your bombs and heat it over medium heat until hot but not smoking. The right temperature ensures your tortilla bombs turn golden and crispy without absorbing too much oil, which keeps them deliciously light.
Step 4: Fry the Tortilla Bombs
Carefully lower a few tortilla bombs into the hot oil. Fry each side for about 3 to 4 minutes, turning as needed, until they’re golden-brown and irresistibly crispy all around. This frying step locks in all the flavors and gives the tortilla that perfect crunch.
Step 5: Drain the Bombs
Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried bombs and place them on paper towels to soak up any excess oil. This simple step keeps them crispy and not greasy, so every bite is pure delight.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Let the tortilla bombs cool just slightly—they’re best enjoyed warm so the cheese is perfectly gooey inside. Grab your favorite dipping sauce, and get ready for the ultimate seafood and cheese experience!
How to Serve Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Tortilla Bombs Recipe
Garnishes
To bring a fresh, vibrant touch to your Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Tortilla Bombs Recipe, sprinkle them with finely chopped fresh parsley, cilantro, or even a pinch of smoked paprika for visual appeal and an aromatic lift. A wedge of lime on the side also adds a refreshing burst when squeezed over the bombs just before eating.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with light, crisp sides like a simple garden salad, guacamole, or a tangy coleslaw. These sides balance the richness of the cheesy seafood and keep the meal bright. For a heartier option, serve alongside cilantro lime rice or black beans for a more complete spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try presenting your tortilla bombs stacked pyramid-style on a serving platter with bowls of zesty aioli, chipotle mayo, or classic cocktail sauce nearby for dipping. For parties, set up a DIY dipping station so guests can customize their flavors. You can even cut the larger bombs in half to showcase the gooey insides and make them easier to share.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, place the cooled Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Tortilla Bombs in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will keep well for up to 2 days without losing much of their crispy charm.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap each assembled tortilla bomb tightly in plastic wrap, then flash freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen up to 1 month, making them a convenient option for quick indulgence later.
Reheating
To reheat, avoid the microwave if you want to keep that fabulous crunch. Instead, bake the tortilla bombs on a parchment-lined tray at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until heated through and crisp. This way, you enjoy them almost as good as fresh!
FAQs
Can I use fresh crab and shrimp in this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh crab meat and shrimp add an extra burst of flavor and freshness to the recipe. Just ensure they’re cooked and cooled before mixing with the other ingredients.
What dipping sauces go best with Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Tortilla Bombs Recipe?
Classic choices like a garlic aioli, spicy sriracha mayo, or a tangy cocktail sauce pair wonderfully. You can also try a zesty lime crema or a fresh salsa for a twist.
Are these tortilla bombs safe to freeze after frying?
It’s best to freeze them before frying for optimal texture. Freezing after frying can make the crust a bit soggy upon reheating, but it’s still doable if needed.
Can I bake instead of fry the tortilla bombs?
Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway, until crispy and golden, though deep frying gives the crispiest, most decadent texture.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the filling. You can also serve with a spicy dipping sauce or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top just before serving.
Final Thoughts
The Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Tortilla Bombs Recipe is a celebration of textures and flavors that will charm anyone lucky enough to try them. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a special occasion, these little pockets of cheesy seafood delight are guaranteed to make your table the star of the night. So, gather your ingredients and dive in—you’ll soon wonder how you ever lived without these crispy, creamy, seafood treasures in your recipe box!
Print
Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Tortilla Bombs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Tortilla Bombs are golden, crispy pockets filled with a creamy seafood mixture of crab meat, shrimp, and cheese, seasoned perfectly with garlic and Old Bay. Deep-fried to perfection, they make a delicious appetizer or party snack that’s both indulgent and flavorful.
Ingredients
Seafood Filling
- 1 cup cooked crab meat, shredded
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Assembly
- 12 small flour tortillas
Frying
- Oil for frying (enough for deep frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the shredded crab meat, chopped shrimp, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Assemble the bombs: Lay a small flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the crab and shrimp filling into the center of the tortilla. Carefully fold the sides over the filling and then roll the tortilla tightly to form a bomb-shaped pocket. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Heat the oil: Pour enough oil into a deep skillet or fryer to allow for deep frying, and heat it over medium heat until hot but not smoking, approximately 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the tortilla bombs: Carefully place a few of the tortilla bombs into the hot oil. Fry each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until the bombs are golden brown and crispy all over.
- Drain the bombs: Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried tortilla bombs from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Allow the bombs to cool slightly and serve warm with your preferred dipping sauce.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to make mixing easier and ensure a smooth filling.
- Do not overcrowd the frying pan to maintain oil temperature and crispiness.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
- Can be paired with a tangy dipping sauce like cocktail sauce or spicy mayo.
- Leftovers can be reheated in an oven to maintain crispiness.
