These seafood roll-ups are a creamy, savory appetizer made with tender shrimp, imitation crab, Old Bay seasoning, and a smooth cream cheese base. Chilled and sliced into bite-sized pieces, they are refreshing, flavorful, and perfect for parties, holidays, or special family meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These roll-ups are incredibly easy to prepare and require no cooking at all. They can be made several hours ahead of time, which makes them ideal for entertaining or stress-free meal prep. The combination of seafood, seasoning, and creamy filling creates a balanced flavor that appeals to both seafood lovers and picky eaters. They are versatile, crowd-pleasing, and disappear fast once served.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sour cream
1 1/2 tablespoons cocktail sauce
1 1/4 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 ounces cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and finely chopped
4 ounces imitation crab, diced
4 regular-size flour tortillas
Directions
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, cocktail sauce, and Old Bay seasoning. Mix until smooth and spreadable.
Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped shrimp, and diced imitation crab until evenly combined.
Lay the tortillas flat on a clean surface. Spread the seafood mixture evenly over each tortilla, leaving about 1/2 inch of space around the edges.
Roll each tortilla tightly, tucking in any filling as you go to form a neat log.
Wrap the roll-ups tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or up to 8 hours, to allow them to firm up.
Once chilled, slice into even rounds and serve cold.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 tortilla roll-ups, yielding approximately 24 to 28 slices depending on thickness.
Prep time is about 15 minutes.
Refrigeration time is 4 to 8 hours.
Total time is approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes.
Variations
You can substitute plain yogurt for the sour cream using the same amount for a slightly lighter flavor. Real cooked crab meat can be used instead of imitation crab for a richer seafood taste. Finely chopped green onions or a small squeeze of lemon juice can be added for extra freshness. For a hint of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling.
Storage/Reheating
These seafood roll-ups should always be stored in the refrigerator. Keep them in an airtight container or tightly wrapped for up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended, as the seafood can release moisture and negatively affect the texture of the cream cheese mixture. These roll-ups are best served cold and do not require reheating.
FAQs
Can I make these seafood roll-ups ahead of time?
Yes, they are perfect for making ahead since chilling improves both texture and flavor.
Can I use real crab instead of imitation crab?
Yes, cooked real crab works very well in this recipe.
Are these roll-ups served warm or cold?
They are served cold, straight from the refrigerator.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly less rich and creamy.
How thick should the slices be?
Slices about 1/2 inch thick are ideal.
Can I add other seafood?
Yes, additional finely chopped cooked seafood can be added.
Do I need a mixer to make the filling?
No, a spoon works fine, but a mixer creates a smoother texture.
Can flavored tortillas be used?
Yes, lightly flavored tortillas work well.
How long can they sit out at room temperature?
They should not sit out for more than 1 to 2 hours.
Can this recipe be doubled?
Yes, it doubles easily for larger gatherings.
Conclusion
These seafood roll-ups with Old Bay and shrimp are a simple yet impressive appetizer that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Their creamy texture, balanced seasoning, and make-ahead convenience make them a dependable choice for entertaining or special meals. Once you try them, they are sure to become a favorite.
These Seafood Roll-Ups are a creamy, no-cook appetizer made with shrimp, imitation crab, and Old Bay seasoning wrapped in soft tortillas. Chilled and sliced into bite-sized rounds, they’re a flavorful and easy make-ahead option perfect for parties and gatherings.
Ingredients
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sour cream
1 1/2 tbsp cocktail sauce
1 1/4 tsp Old Bay seasoning
3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 oz cooked shrimp, finely chopped
4 oz imitation crab, diced
4 flour tortillas (regular size)
Instructions
In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sour cream, cocktail sauce, and Old Bay seasoning until smooth.
Fold in cheddar cheese, chopped shrimp, and imitation crab.
Spread the seafood mixture evenly over each tortilla, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
Roll each tortilla tightly into a log and wrap in plastic wrap or foil.
Chill for 4 to 8 hours to allow them to firm up.
Unwrap, slice into 1/2-inch pieces, and serve cold.
Notes
Chilling is key for easy slicing and best texture.
Use real crab for a more upscale twist.
Add lemon juice or green onion for extra brightness.
