Description
Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños are a culinary delight that perfectly combines bold and spicy flavors with a creamy texture. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknight dinners or as a show-stopping appetizer at parties. The appeal of stuffed jalapeños lies in their ability to pack a punch, all while delivering a satisfying bite. When filled with succulent shrimp and a luscious cream cheese mixture, each jalapeño becomes a flavor bomb that’s hard to resist. Dive into this tasty recipe that promises to tantalize your taste buds and impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 8 large jalapeño peppers
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 ounce cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack or cheddar cheese
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
1. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep things tidy. Then, slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and deftly remove the seeds and membranes.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, half of the crumbled bacon, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well-blended and creamy.
3. Next, spoon generous amounts of the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half. While those are being prepped, grab another bowl and toss the shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika.
4. Place one seasoned shrimp on top of each stuffed jalapeño, then sprinkle them with Parmesan cheese and the remaining crumbled bacon. Arrange the jalapeños on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake the jalapeños for 15–18 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the shrimp are cooked through, the jalapeños are tender, and the cheese is bubbly and golden. If you’re craving a bit more browning, turn on the broiler for an additional 1–2 minutes.
6. Once out of the oven, garnish your Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños with chopped parsley and serve them warm alongside lime wedges.
Notes
Select fresh, firm jalapeños for the best taste and texture.
Be cautious when handling jalapeños; consider wearing gloves to protect your skin.
Ensure shrimp are cooked to the right doneness. They should turn pink and opaque; overcooked shrimp can become rubbery.
For the right balance of flavors, taste your stuffing mixture before filling the jalapeños.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed jalapeños
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 150mg