Description

If you love creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy dishes, this Crab Quesadillas Recipe is your next go-to! Filled with succulent crab meat, melty cheese, and a touch of spice, these golden-brown quesadillas are easy to make and bursting with flavor. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe combines seafood comfort with Mexican-inspired flair.

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Filling:

1 cup lump crab meat (drained and picked over for shells)
½ cup cream cheese, softened
1 tbsp sour cream
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp hot sauce (optional, adjust to taste)
½ tsp Old Bay or Cajun seasoning
¼ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp onion powder
2 tbsp chopped green onions
1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

For the Quesadillas:

1½ cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or cheddar)
4 large flour tortillas
1 tbsp butter or olive oil (for the pan)

For Serving:

Salsa or pico de gallo
Guacamole or avocado slices
Sour cream or chipotle crema
Lime wedges

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crab Filling

In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, lime juice, hot sauce, Old Bay (or Cajun) seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Mix until smooth and creamy.
Gently fold in the crab meat, green onions, and cilantro until well combined.
Set aside while you prepare the tortillas and cheese.

Step 2: Assemble the Quesadillas

Lay out the tortillas and spread half of each with the crab mixture.
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the filling.
Fold each tortilla in half to form a half-moon shape.
Press lightly to seal.

Step 3: Cook the Quesadillas

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a little butter or add oil.
Place the folded quesadillas in the pan (cook in batches if needed).
Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the skillet and let cool for 1–2 minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Slice & Serve

Slice each quesadilla into wedges using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
Serve hot with your favorite toppings: salsa, guac, sour cream, and lime wedges.

Notes

Use Lump Crab – For best texture and flavor, stick to real crab meat.
Don’t Overfill – A thin, even layer of filling helps seal and crisp properly.
Cook Low & Slow – Medium heat ensures a golden crust without burning.
Use Melty Cheese – Monterey Jack or mozzarella melt beautifully and pair well with crab.
Customize the Heat – Add jalapeños or chili flakes if you like extra spice.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Mexican-American