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Instructions
1. Prepare the Jalapeños
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, prepare the jalapeños. Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes using a small spoon or your hands (wear gloves to avoid the burn from the seeds!). If you like extra heat, feel free to leave a few seeds behind.
Arrange the halved jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
2. Cook the Shrimp
In a medium-sized skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped shrimp. Sprinkle the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir the shrimp around as they cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.
Remove the shrimp from the heat and let them cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the cooked shrimp with the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until well combined. The cheese will add creaminess to the mixture, making it easy to stuff into the jalapeños.
4. Stuff the Jalapeños
Using a small spoon or a piping bag, carefully stuff each jalapeño half with the shrimp and cheese mixture. Be generous with the stuffing—fill the jalapeños until they are heaping with the creamy, cheesy shrimp.
5. Bake the Stuffed Jalapeños
Place the stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. If desired, sprinkle the top of each stuffed pepper with a little extra shredded mozzarella cheese for an extra cheesy, gooey finish.
Bake the stuffed jalapeños in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the jalapeños have softened. If you prefer a crispier topping, you can broil the jalapeños for an additional 2-3 minutes to get the cheese golden and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the stuffed jalapeños from the oven. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness and color.
Serve hot as an appetizer or snack. These stuffed jalapeños are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they can also be reheated if you have leftovers.
Tips for Making the Perfect Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re not a fan of very spicy food, remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before stuffing them. Alternatively, you can use milder peppers, such as banana peppers or bell peppers, for a less fiery version.
- Add More Flavor to the Shrimp: For an extra punch of flavor, marinate the shrimp in the Cajun seasoning and olive oil for 30 minutes before cooking. This will infuse the shrimp with even more flavor.
- Make Them Ahead of Time: If you’re entertaining, you can prepare the stuffed jalapeños up to a day ahead. Stuff the peppers, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them in the oven to bake.
- Experiment with Cheese: While cream cheese is a classic choice, you can mix in other types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even goat cheese for a unique flavor twist.
- Add Bacon: For a smoky crunch, sprinkle crumbled cooked bacon over the stuffed jalapeños before baking. Bacon pairs wonderfully with the shrimp and cheese.
Why These Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños Are So Irresistible
There’s no denying that the combination of shrimp, Cajun seasoning, and jalapeños makes for an incredible flavor explosion. The shrimp are perfectly cooked, infused with zesty Cajun spices, and complemented by creamy cheese. The heat from the jalapeños adds just the right amount of kick, while the crunchy breadcrumb topping (if you choose to add it) gives a delightful texture contrast.
This recipe is also super versatile—whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a spicy snack, these stuffed jalapeños will satisfy your cravings and leave your guests begging for more. It’s a dish that balances heat, creaminess, and savory flavors to perfection.
Final Thoughts
Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños are the perfect appetizer or party snack that delivers bold flavors with just the right amount of heat. The combination of succulent shrimp, creamy cheese, and spicy jalapeños creates a mouthwatering bite that’s guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering. Whether you’re a fan of spicy foods or just looking to try something new, these stuffed jalapeños will not disappoint!
With easy-to-follow steps and the ability to customize the recipe to your taste, these stuffed peppers are sure to become a go-to dish in your recipe collection. Enjoy the heat and the flavor!
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