The Best Seafood Roll-ups Recipe
Introduction
This seafood roll-up recipe is a creamy, flavorful appetizer that combines shrimp, crab, and a tangy cream cheese spread wrapped in soft tortillas. Perfect for gatherings or a light snack, these roll-ups are easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sour cream (see note)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cocktail sauce
- 1 1/4 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning, add to taste
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 oz. cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 4 oz. imitation crab, diced
- 4 regular sized tortillas
Instructions
- Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, cocktail sauce, and Old Bay seasoning. Use a hand mixer to blend everything until the cream cheese is smooth and the mixture is spreadable.
- Step 2: Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped shrimp, and diced imitation crab into the cream cheese mixture.
- Step 3: Lay out the tortillas on a flat surface. Spread the seafood and cream cheese mixture evenly onto each tortilla in a thin, flat layer, leaving about 1/2 inch of space around the edges.
- Step 4: Carefully roll up each tortilla, tucking in any extra filling as you go to keep it secure.
- Step 5: Wrap the roll-ups tightly in plastic wrap and chill them in the refrigerator for 4 to 8 hours before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious seafood roll-ups!
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh cooked shrimp instead of frozen for a more vibrant seafood flavor.
- Swap out imitation crab for fresh crab meat if available and preferred.
- Add finely chopped celery or green onions to the filling for added crunch.
- For a spicier kick, mix in a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper with the cream cheese.
- If you want a gluten-free option, use gluten-free tortillas instead of regular ones.
Storage
Store any leftover roll-ups wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, slice chilled roll-ups with a sharp knife. These roll-ups are best enjoyed cold and should not be frozen as the texture may change upon thawing.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare the roll-ups ahead of time?
Yes, preparing them several hours ahead is recommended. Chilling the roll-ups allows the flavors to meld and makes slicing easier.
Can I substitute sour cream with something else?
You can replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier flavor and added protein, but it will alter the texture slightly.
PrintThe Best Seafood Roll-ups Recipe
These delicious Seafood Roll-ups combine shrimp, imitation crab, and a creamy blend of cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar, and cocktail sauce. Perfect for a make-ahead appetizer or light meal, they are easy to prepare and flavor-packed with a hint of Old Bay seasoning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 4 seafood roll-ups, approximately 12-16 slices depending on size 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Seafood Spread
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cocktail sauce
- 1 1/4 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning (add to taste)
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 oz. cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 4 oz. imitation crab, diced
Assembly
- 4 regular sized tortillas
Instructions
- Prepare the cream cheese mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, cocktail sauce, and Old Bay seasoning. Using a hand mixer, blend until the cream cheese is smooth and the mixture is spreadable.
- Fold in seafood and cheese: Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cooked shrimp, and diced imitation crab into the cream cheese mixture until evenly incorporated.
- Spread on tortillas: Lay out each tortilla flat and spread an even layer of the seafood cream cheese mixture onto each, leaving about 1/2 inch space around the edges to prevent spilling.
- Roll and chill: Roll up each tortilla tightly, tucking in any extra filling as you go to ensure a neat roll. Place the roll-ups in the refrigerator and chill for 4 to 8 hours to allow flavors to meld and the rolls to firm up.
- Slice and serve: After chilling, slice the roll-ups into bite-sized pieces and serve as a tasty appetizer or light snack.
Notes
- Use sour cream for extra creaminess; you can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Chilling helps the filling set and makes it easier to slice without the filling spilling out.
- Adjust Old Bay seasoning to your taste preference for spice level.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Keywords: seafood roll-ups, shrimp appetizers, cream cheese rolls, easy no-cook seafood dish, party finger foods

