Creamy Crab Quesadillas

Featured in Snacks and bites for hungry moments.

Turn ordinary quesadillas into something special with a creamy crab filling. Melted cheese and crab make it perfect for appetizers or a light meal.
Maria from tastyhush
Updated on Wed, 19 Mar 2025 15:22:35 GMT
A golden quesadilla plate stuffed with seafood, melted cheese, and veggies, with fresh chives in the background. Pin it
A golden quesadilla plate stuffed with seafood, melted cheese, and veggies, with fresh chives in the background. | tastyhush.com

I whipped up these crab quesadillas during a last-minute get-together with friends. I wanted to put a fresh seafood twist on the classic recipe. The combo of tender crab with melty cheese and a spicy kick has become my go-to trick for standout appetizers.

A surprising blend that wows everyone

This recipe's my backup plan to turn a basic snack into something special. It's quick to make and always impresses. I really love how the crab brings its natural sweetness that works so well with the creamy cheese. It's now the star of all my friend gatherings.

Shopping list

  • Chair de crabe: 250g carefully flaked
  • Crème fraîche: For extra creaminess
  • Tortillas: Medium sized ones work best
  • Piments verts: Finely chopped for a kick
  • Cheddar: A good amount, shredded for meltiness
  • Mayonnaise: Homemade if you can swing it
  • Ciboulette: Fresh-cut from the garden
  • Beurre: A bit melted for crispiness

Step by step guide

The service
I cut them into triangles and serve them piping hot so the cheese stretches nicely.
The creamy filling
I start by mixing crab with cheese, mayo and cream. Then I toss in chives and peppers for flavor.
The perfect cooking
I brush melted butter on the outside and pop them in the oven at 190°C for 10-15 minutes until they're golden brown.
The easy assembly
I spread my filling on half of each tortilla then fold them into half-moons.

My helpful tips

I often make the filling the night before to save time. Sometimes I swap cheddar for monterey jack for a change. For friends who like it hot, I throw in some cayenne pepper. And I always offer my homemade salsa or guacamole on the side.

Crispy quesadillas stuffed with cheese, chicken and veggies, served with a creamy sauce. Pin it
Crispy quesadillas stuffed with cheese, chicken and veggies, served with a creamy sauce. | tastyhush.com

What to serve alongside

I pair my quesadillas with a crisp green salad, tortilla chips or my slow-cooked black beans. For a party vibe, a lime margarita or cold beer goes perfectly with this dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What kind of crab should I use?
You can go for canned crab that's well-drained or cooked fresh crab. Just make sure to flake the meat into small pieces so it mixes evenly.
→ Can I make the filling ahead?
Absolutely! Prepare the filling up to a day early and keep it chilled. Just let it sit out for 15 minutes before you use it.
→ How can I get crispy quesadillas?
Brush the tortillas with melted butter and bake them until golden. Watch closely so they get just the right crunch before serving.
→ Can I reheat them?
They're best fresh, but you can warm them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes. Skip the microwave—it'll make them soggy.
→ What goes well with them?
Serve these with fresh salsa, guacamole, or a little sour cream. A light green salad also pairs nicely.

Creamy Crab Quesadillas

Soft tortillas loaded with a rich, cheesy crab and fresh herb filling. A simple way to enjoy Tex-Mex flavors paired with ocean goodness.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes
By: Maria

Category: Appetizers

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Fusion

Yield: 10 Servings (10 quesadillas)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

01 1/3 cup of sour cream.
02 1 1/2 cups of shredded Cheddar cheese.
03 1/4 cup of mayonnaise.
04 2 tablespoons of finely chopped scallions.
05 225 g (about 8 oz) of cooked and minced crab meat.
06 2 tablespoons of diced green chilies.
07 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
08 10 large flour tortillas (8-inch size).

Instructions

Step 01

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to preheat.

Step 02

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheese, mayo, sour cream, crab meat, scallions, and green chilies. Stir until blended evenly.

Step 03

Lay the tortillas out on a baking sheet. Spread about 1/4 cup of your filling evenly over one side of each tortilla. Fold them over to seal the filling inside.

Step 04

Use the melted butter to lightly brush the outside edges of the folded tortillas.

Step 05

Move the baking sheet into the oven. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the quesadillas are nicely golden and heated through.

Step 06

Take the quesadillas out of the oven. Slice them into smaller wedges and serve right away.

Notes

  1. You can make the filling ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to one day.

Tools You'll Need

  • Oven.
  • Baking sheet.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Shellfish.
  • Dairy.
  • Wheat.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 320
  • Total Fat: 18 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 28 g
  • Protein: 15 g