Craving a dish with a burst of flavors that’s both indulgent and delightful? Look no further than these Cheesy Crab & Shrimp Tortilla Bombs with Garlic Cream. This recipe brings together the rich, succulent flavors of seafood with the creamy embrace of cheeses, wrapped up tightly in a crispy golden tortilla. Every bite is an explosion of deliciousness, making it an ideal choice for gatherings, weekend dinners, or any time you want to impress with minimal effort. The art of combining crab and shrimp creates a seafood synergy that is further elevated by the harmonious blend of cheeses creating a dreamy, melty texture that contrasts perfectly with the crunch of the tortilla. Plus, the drizzle of garlic cream adds a layer of depth, turning simple ingredients into a gourmet meal. Whether you’re a seafood aficionado or a cheese lover, these tortilla bombs promise to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Crab & Shrimp Tortilla Bombs
If you need more reasons to try this recipe, consider these irresistibly enticing benefits:
- Flavor Paradise: The perfect blend of seafood and cheese creates an exciting taste sensation.
- Easy & Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe scores high on convenience.
- Versatile Delight: Perfect for appetizers, main courses, or party snacks.
- Gourmet Touch: A simple addition of garlic cream elevates the dish to fancy-feast levels.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Preparation is key to ensuring that your cooking process is as smooth as your final dish. Start by organizing your kitchen space—clear your counters and gather all the ingredients in one place. A large mixing bowl will come in handy for combining your filling ingredients. Ensure your whisk or spatula is ready for stirring the crab meat, shrimp, and cheeses into a beautiful mix. You’ll need a small skillet for frying, and it’s essential to have your frying oil prepped and heated before filling your tortillas. Lastly, make sure you have a pair of tongs or a slotted spoon to expertly maneuver your tortilla bombs in the hot oil. Prepping in advance will make the rest of the process swift and enjoyable.
Ingredients
- 1 cup crab meat
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 8 small flour tortillas
- ¼ cup minced garlic
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Oil, for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Create the Filling
Begin by crafting a delectable filling that will be the heart of your tortilla bombs. In a sizable bowl, combine the crab meat, chopped shrimp, shredded cheese, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, and green onions. Incorporate the lemon juice then season generously with salt and pepper. Stir the mixture until all the ingredients meld together, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that promises to tantalize your taste buds.
Step 2: Assemble the Tortilla Bombs
With your filling ready, it’s time to construct the tortilla bombs. Spoon about two tablespoons of the filling into the center of each small flour tortilla. Carefully fold the edges of the tortilla around the filling to form a sealed pocket, ensuring there are no openings for the filling to escape during cooking. Properly sealed edges are crucial for maintaining the integrity of your bombs.
Step 3: Fry to Perfection
Heat a generous amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, gently place several tortilla bombs in the skillet, taking care not to overcrowd. Allow each bomb to cook for 3–4 minutes per side. You’re looking for a golden, crispy exterior. Once fried to perfection, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Drain and Serve
With the bombs beautifully fried, they are all set to serve. While they can be enjoyed as they are, drizzling them with a garlic cream adds a rich, savory layer of flavor that complements the cheesy crab and shrimp filling beautifully. Serve these delights hot for the best taste experience.
Variations
- Protein: Swap crab and shrimp with lobster or finely chopped scallops for a sophisticated twist.
- Vegetables: Add peppers or corn to infuse additional texture and sweetness.
- Spices: Kick it up a notch with chili flakes or smoked paprika for added heat.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure the oil is adequately hot before frying to achieve perfect crispness.
- Adjust seasoning as needed to suit personal taste preferences; seafood combos can vary in flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side of fresh salad to add a refreshing contrast.
- Serve alongside a zesty salsa for a touch of flavorful flair.
Tips
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the tortilla bombs from sticking and breaking apart.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties for a unique flavor combination.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 450mg
FAQs
Can these be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead and refrigerate it. Assemble and fry the tortilla bombs just before serving for optimal texture.
Are there alternatives to frying?
Absolutely! You can bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes for a healthier option.
What type of crab is best?
Fresh or canned crab can be used; just ensure it’s thoroughly drained to avoid a soggy filling.
Can this be made with gluten-free tortillas?
Yes, substitute with your favorite gluten-free tortillas; just make sure they’re suitable for frying.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Crab & Shrimp Tortilla Bombs with Garlic Cream are a delightful way to enjoy seafood and cheese in a unique, easy-to-make dish. Golden and crispy on the outside, with creamy, cheesy goodness on the inside, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. The garlic cream is an optional addition but highly recommended for an extra flavor boost. We encourage you to try this recipe at home, share your experiences, or even experiment with your own variations—there’s no wrong way to enjoy these fantastic tortilla bombs!
Print
Cheesy Crab & Shrimp Tortilla Bombs
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Craving a dish with a burst of flavors that’s both indulgent and delightful? Look no further than these Cheesy Crab & Shrimp Tortilla Bombs with Garlic Cream.
Ingredients
- 1 cup crab meat
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 8 small flour tortillas
- ¼ cup minced garlic
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Oil, for frying
Instructions
- Begin by crafting a delectable filling that will be the heart of your tortilla bombs. In a sizable bowl, combine the crab meat, chopped shrimp, shredded cheese, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, and green onions. Incorporate the lemon juice then season generously with salt and pepper. Stir the mixture until all the ingredients meld together, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that promises to tantalize your taste buds.
- With your filling ready, it’s time to construct the tortilla bombs. Spoon about two tablespoons of the filling into the center of each small flour tortilla. Carefully fold the edges of the tortilla around the filling to form a sealed pocket, ensuring there are no openings for the filling to escape during cooking. Properly sealed edges are crucial for maintaining the integrity of your bombs.
- Heat a generous amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, gently place several tortilla bombs in the skillet, taking care not to overcrowd. Allow each bomb to cook for 3–4 minutes per side. You’re looking for a golden, crispy exterior. Once fried to perfection, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- With the bombs beautifully fried, they are all set to serve. While they can be enjoyed as they are, drizzling them with a garlic cream adds a rich, savory layer of flavor that complements the cheesy crab and shrimp filling beautifully. Serve these delights hot for the best taste experience.
Notes
These Cheesy Crab & Shrimp Tortilla Bombs can be made ahead of time; just prepare the filling and fry just before serving for optimal texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Protein: 20 g