
Cheesy Seafood Tortilla Bombs are the ultimate party appetizer for seafood fans craving something rich and satisfying. Each tortilla bomb is stuffed with plump shrimp and sweet crab mingled with a trio of creamy cheeses and a hint of garlic then baked until bubbling in a luscious cream sauce. Whether you are hosting a gathering or just treating yourself to a special snack this recipe makes cheesy seafood dreams come true
The first time I tried these was before a birthday dinner and they disappeared in five minutes flat Everyone begged for the recipe and they have been a regular crowd favorite since
Ingredients
- Medium flour tortillas: give a soft yet sturdy base for rolling and hold all the filling Do a quick squeeze test in the bread aisle to find ones that are fresh and flexible
- Cooked shrimp: brings a light briny flavor Chop it so every bite gets a taste of shrimp
- Lump crab meat: offers sweet delicate texture Choose fresh or high-quality canned for best results
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully and offers a gooey stretchy finish
- Shredded cheddar cheese: adds sharpness and an orange hue for cheesiness
- Cream cheese: acts as the creamy binder and makes the filling extra decadent Soften fully for easy mixing
- Mayonnaise: boosts the richness and binds the seafood mixture Choose a full-fat option for flavor
- Garlic cloves: provide punchy savory notes Use freshly minced garlic for fullest taste
- Paprika: adds subtle smokiness Opt for sweet or smoked
- Butter: helps brown the garlic for the sauce and delivers that classic comforting taste
- Heavy cream: creates the luxurious sauce Choose one with no stabilizers for best texture
- Fresh parsley: adds color and a pop of herby freshness Use flat-leaf for best appearance
- Salt and pepper: balance and deepen all the flavors Taste as you go for perfect seasoning
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Seafood Filling:
- Mix cooked shrimp chopped crab mozzarella cheddar softened cream cheese mayo minced garlic paprika salt and pepper in a large mixing bowl Using a spoon mix until everything is evenly distributed and the mixture feels cohesive This is the heart of each tortilla bomb so take a minute to fully incorporate all ingredients
- Stuff and Roll the Tortillas:
- Spread a generous scoop of seafood filling evenly on each flour tortilla right to the edges Roll each tortilla up as tightly as possible so the filling does not escape Place each roll seam-side down in a greased baking dish This ensures the rolls do not unravel during baking
- Make the Garlic Cream Sauce:
- In a small skillet melt butter over medium-low heat Add the remaining minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not browned Pour in the heavy cream and let simmer for three to five minutes stirring frequently until the sauce thickens slightly It should coat the back of a spoon
- Assemble and Bake:
- Evenly pour the garlic cream sauce over the rolled tortillas in the baking dish letting it seep into all the nooks and crannies Bake on the middle rack at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for fifteen to eighteen minutes until the sauce bubbles and the tops of the tortillas turn golden brown
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven sprinkle chopped fresh parsley across the top Let cool for two minutes then slice or serve the tortilla bombs whole Serve hot for the gooey cheesy experience

My favorite ingredient here is the crab There is something about fresh lump crab’s delicate sweetness that makes every bite memorable The first time I made this my husband got home late and ate the leftovers straight from the pan with no regrets
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days The rolls reheat well in the oven at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit for ten minutes Or microwave individual portions for a quick snack These are best freshly baked but leftover portions are just as satisfying
Ingredient Substitutions
If crab is not available swap in chopped cooked lobster or even flaked white fish Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can replace mozzarella for extra creaminess Or try Greek yogurt in place of some mayo if you want a lighter version Gluten-free flour tortillas work great too

Serving Suggestions
Serve these tortillas hot on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing They are perfect with a squeeze of lemon or a side of cool tzatziki For heartier fare cut them in halves and serve over rice or with a vegetable medley These are just as good at brunch buffets as on game day
Cultural Inspiration
This dish plays on Tex-Mex inspiration with a seafood twist blending classic US Gulf Coast flavors with tortilla-wrapped street food vibes There is a bit of nostalgic comfort here like shrimp enchiladas but with an even cheesier party spin
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute other seafood?
Yes, try cooked scallops or white fish for a different twist, adjusting cooking times as needed for tenderness.
- → How can I make these spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the seafood filling for a mild heat boost.
- → What’s the best way to prevent soggy tortillas?
Roll tortillas tightly and avoid overfilling. Bake until golden so the tortillas crisp slightly in the oven.
- → Is there a dairy-free option?
Use plant-based cheese and cream alternatives, but note this will change the texture and flavor.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Roll and chill unbaked bombs in advance, then add sauce and bake just before serving for best results.