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Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Tortilla Bombs Recipe

4.6 from 74 reviews

These Cheesy Crab and Shrimp Tortilla Bombs are crispy, golden-fried delights filled with a creamy, flavorful mixture of shrimp, crab, cream cheese, and cheddar. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they’re packed with savory spices like garlic powder and Old Bay seasoning, creating a rich seafood experience wrapped in a crispy tortilla shell.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Tortillas

  • 12 small flour tortillas

Frying

  • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil recommended)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, 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 everything thoroughly until well incorporated.
  2. Assemble the bombs: Lay one flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the crab and shrimp mixture into the center of the tortilla.
  3. Shape the bombs: Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll tightly to form a sealed, compact ‘bomb’ shape. Repeat this process for all tortillas and filling.
  4. Heat the oil: Pour enough oil into a deep skillet or fryer to submerge the tortilla bombs about halfway. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C), or until hot enough for frying.
  5. Fry the bombs: Carefully place a few tortilla bombs into the hot oil, frying them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
  6. Drain the bombs: Remove the fried bombs with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat frying the remaining bombs.
  7. Serve warm: Serve the crispy tortilla bombs warm, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce such as sour cream, spicy mayo, or cocktail sauce.

Notes

  • Ensure the cream cheese is softened to make mixing easier and achieve a creamy filling.
  • Use fresh or thawed cooked seafood for the best texture and flavor.
  • If you want a healthier option, consider baking the bombs at 400°F (205°C) for about 15-20 minutes until crispy instead of frying.
  • Be careful when frying to avoid oil splatters and do not overcrowd the pan to maintain proper frying temperature.
  • These can be prepared ahead and fried just before serving for fresh crispiness.

Keywords: crab, shrimp, cheesy appetizer, seafood, fried tortilla bombs, cream cheese, party snack