Description
These Shrimp-Crab Fajita Roll Up Bombs are a vibrant and flavorful appetizer that combines succulent shrimp and fresh lump crabmeat with colorful sautéed bell peppers and onions, all seasoned with a signature fajita spice blend. Wrapped in soft flour tortillas layered with cream cheese and sharp cheddar, then chilled and sliced into bite-sized rounds, these roll-ups deliver a perfect balance of Tex-Mex zest and seafood sweetness. Ideal for entertaining, they’re easy to prepare ahead and impress with their eye-catching spiral presentation and delightful, protein-packed taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood Filling
- 1 lb large shrimp (21–25 count), peeled, deveined, and diced into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz fresh lump crabmeat, carefully picked over for shells (or substitute with high-quality canned crab, drained)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large red bell pepper, diced
- 1 large yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Signature Fajita Seasoning
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, crushed
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Assembly and Binding
- 8 large flour tortillas (10-inch), room temperature
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 limes, juiced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely minced (optional)
Instructions
- Create the Perfect Seasoning Foundation: In a small bowl, whisk together chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper until well blended. This seasoning mix will provide the authentic Tex-Mex flavor base for the seafood filling.
- Master the Seafood Sauté Technique: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the diced shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes until they start turning pink. Add the prepared fajita seasoning and toss to coat evenly. Then add diced red and yellow bell peppers, sliced red onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp and aromatic.
- Incorporate the Delicate Crab: Gently fold in the lump crabmeat during the last minute of cooking, taking care not to break up the lumps. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature to prevent melting the cream cheese during assembly.
- Prepare the Tortilla Foundation: Lay each flour tortilla flat on a clean workspace. Using an offset spatula or butter knife, spread about 2 tablespoons of softened cream cheese evenly across the entire surface, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. This will act as a moisture barrier and add rich flavor.
- Execute the Perfect Assembly Technique: Sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the cream cheese layer. Then spread approximately 1/2 cup of the cooled seafood mixture horizontally across the lower third of each tortilla. Ensure even distribution to avoid overstuffing or sparse filling.
- Master the Professional Rolling Method: Starting from the filled edge, roll each tortilla tightly but gently, applying consistent pressure to form compact cylinders. The cream cheese acts as an adhesive sealing the seam. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow set and easier slicing.
- Create the “Bomb” Presentation: Remove the rolls from the refrigerator, unwrap, and using a sharp serrated knife, trim the ends to clean edges. Slice each roll into 1-inch thick rounds. Arrange cut-side up on serving platters to showcase the colorful spiral pattern and vibrant filling.
Notes
- For a lower calorie version, substitute cream cheese with a mix of Greek yogurt and a small amount of mayonnaise, and use reduced-fat cheese.
- For a lower carb alternative, replace flour tortillas with large lettuce leaves or low-carb tortillas like Boston or butter lettuce.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, use certified gluten-free or corn tortillas for authentic Mexican flavor and texture.
- Dairy-free option: omit cream cheese and cheddar; use mashed avocado seasoned with lime juice and cumin for creaminess and flavor.
- These roll-ups can be prepared several hours in advance for stress-free entertaining.
- Serve with guacamole, pico de gallo, sour cream, or alongside Mexican street corn salad, black bean and quinoa pilaf, or cilantro-lime rice for a fuller meal.
- Pair well with Mexican lagers, margaritas, or crisp Sauvignon Blanc wine.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Keywords: Shrimp crab fajita roll ups, seafood appetizers, Tex-Mex roll ups, fajita bombs, party appetizers, seafood roll ups
