Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños Recipe

Introduction

Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños are a bold and flavorful appetizer that combines creamy cheese, spicy shrimp, and smoky spices. Perfect for game day or a spicy snack, these bite-sized treats deliver a satisfying kick with every bite.

Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked shrimp (finely chopped)
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
• 2 tbsp melted butter (optional)
• 12 large jalapeños (halved and seeds removed)
• Fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, finely chopped cooked shrimp, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Mix until smooth and well blended.
3. Step 3: Fill each jalapeño half with the creamy shrimp mixture, smoothing the tops with a spoon.
4. Step 4: If using, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the filled jalapeños for a crispy topping.
5. Step 5: Bake the stuffed jalapeños on the prepared sheet for 15-20 minutes, until the filling is bubbly and the tops turn golden brown.
6. Step 6: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley or green onions. Serve warm and enjoy the fiery flavors.

Tips & Variations

• For a milder version, use poblano peppers instead of jalapeños or remove all seeds and membranes.
• Add a squeeze of lime juice to the filling for a fresh, zesty twist.
• Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese to boost the heat naturally.
• Serve with a cooling dip like ranch or sour cream to balance the spice.
• Make these ahead and refrigerate before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through and bubbly. Avoid microwaving to keep the jalapeños from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use raw shrimp instead of cooked shrimp?

It’s best to use cooked shrimp since raw shrimp can release excess moisture and affect the texture. If using raw, make sure to cook and chop it before mixing with the filling.

How spicy are these stuffed jalapeños?

They have a noticeable kick from the jalapeños and Cajun seasoning, but the creamy cheese helps mellow the heat for a balanced, fiery flavor that’s enjoyable for most spice lovers.

Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 119 reviews

Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños are a spicy and creamy appetizer featuring jalapeño peppers filled with a luscious mixture of cream cheese, cheddar, seasoned shrimp, and spices. Baked until bubbly and golden, these flavorful bites are perfect for parties or a spicy snack.

• Author: Bella
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 12 stuffed jalapeño halves (serves 6 as appetizer) 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Cajun

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Filling

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked shrimp (finely chopped)
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

Topping (Optional)

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp melted butter

Main

• 12 large jalapeños (halved and seeds removed)
• Fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the stuffed jalapeños.
2. Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped cooked shrimp, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Stir the mixture until it becomes smooth and evenly blended.
3. Stuff Jalapeños: Carefully fill each jalapeño half with the creamy shrimp mixture, smoothing the tops to ensure even filling.
4. Add Breadcrumb Topping (Optional): Mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the stuffed jalapeños to add a crispy topping.
5. Bake: Place the stuffed jalapeños on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the filling is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

• Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning for preferred spice level.
• To reduce heat, remove membranes from jalapeños in addition to seeds.
• Breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a nice crunchy texture.
• Use fresh shrimp for best flavor; cooked shrimp can be used as a shortcut.
• These can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.

Keywords: Cajun shrimp stuffed jalapeños, spicy appetizer, baked stuffed peppers, shrimp appetizer, cream cheese jalapeños