Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños – A Spicy, Cheesy Delight

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If you love bold flavors and a little heat, these Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños are a must-try! This easy appetizer brings together juicy shrimp, creamy cheese, and smoky Cajun spices inside a roasted jalapeño for a flavor-packed bite. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching the game, or just craving something spicy and delicious, these stuffed jalapeños are sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Spicy & Cheesy – The perfect blend of jalapeño heat and creamy, melted cheese.
  • Loaded with Cajun Flavor – A kick of Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika for extra depth.
  • Great for Parties – A fun, crowd-pleasing appetizer that disappears fast.
  • Easy to Make – Just mix, stuff, and bake for a quick, delicious dish.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

  • 12 large jalapeños, halved and deseeded
  • ½ lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup shredded pepper jack cheese
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 green onion, finely chopped

For Topping:

  • ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tbsp melted butter
  • 2 tbsp cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Jalapeños
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Slice jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Filling
In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar, pepper jack, mayonnaise, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper until smooth.
Fold in the chopped shrimp and green onions until evenly combined.

Step 3: Stuff & Bake
Spoon the shrimp mixture into each jalapeño half, pressing gently to pack in the filling.
In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over each stuffed jalapeño.
Place stuffed jalapeños on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
Let cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
Sprinkle with crumbled bacon (if using) and garnish with extra green onions for a fresh finish. Serve warm and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Pair these Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños with:

  • Cool Ranch Dressing – The creamy dressing balances the heat.
  • Avocado Lime Sauce – Adds a smooth, tangy touch.
  • Crispy Tortilla Chips – Great for scooping up extra filling!
  • Grilled Steak or Chicken – Serve as a spicy side for a full meal.

Tips for the Best Stuffed Jalapeños

  • Adjust the Heat Level – For milder jalapeños, soak them in cold water for 30 minutes before stuffing.
  • Use Pre-Cooked Shrimp – If short on time, use pre-cooked shrimp for an even quicker prep.
  • Broil for Extra Crispiness – For an ultra-crispy top, broil for the last 2 minutes of baking.
  • Experiment with Cheese – Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or crumbled feta for a twist.

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze unbaked stuffed jalapeños on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen.
  • Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the jalapeños in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

Are these extremely spicy?
The heat level depends on the jalapeños. Removing the seeds and membranes helps reduce the spice.

Can I grill these instead of baking?
Absolutely! Grill over medium heat for about 10-12 minutes until cheese is bubbly and jalapeños are slightly charred.

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