Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- Stuff Jalapeños: Carefully fill each jalapeño half with the creamy shrimp mixture, smoothing the tops to ensure even filling.
- Add Breadcrumb Topping (Optional): Mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the stuffed jalapeños to add a crispy topping.
- 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.
- 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
