Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños

Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños are the ultimate appetizer for those who love bold, spicy, and savory flavors. This dish combines the natural heat of fresh jalapeños with creamy, cheesy goodness and perfectly seasoned Cajun shrimp. The balance of spice, creaminess, and the smoky flavors of paprika and Cajun seasoning makes this a standout snack for parties, game days, or casual gatherings. Easy to prepare yet packed with flavor, these stuffed jalapeños are guaranteed to impress your guests and leave them craving more!

Ingredients

  • 8 large jalapeños, halved lengthwise and seeds removed
  • 16 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional, to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Instructions

  1. Prepare the Jalapeños:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes. For a milder spice, rinse the jalapeños under cold water to remove residual oils.

  1. Season the Shrimp:

In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture:

In a separate bowl, mix the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese until well combined.

Assemble the Stuffed Jalapeños:

Fill each jalapeño half with a dollop of the cheese mixture.

Place one seasoned shrimp on top of the cheese in each jalapeño half, pressing it gently into the filling.

Bake the Jalapeños:

Arrange the stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

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Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the shrimp is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Optional Broil:

For a golden, slightly charred top, turn on the broiler for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking.

Garnish and Serve:

Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

Serve warm as an appetizer or snack.

Tips for Success

  • Handle Jalapeños Carefully: Use gloves while deseeding the jalapeños to avoid irritation from the oils.
  • Adjust Spice Level: For less heat, use mini sweet peppers instead of jalapeños.
  • Experiment with Toppings: Add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top of the cheese for extra crunch.
  • Make Ahead: Stuff the jalapeños and refrigerate them for up to a day in advance, then bake when ready.
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Conclusion

Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that brings together the perfect harmony of spice, creaminess, and seafood goodness. These bite-sized treats are ideal for entertaining or indulging in a flavorful snack that’s as eye-catching as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or treating yourself to something special, this recipe is sure to add a spicy kick to your menu. Pair them with a cool dipping sauce like ranch or sour cream to mellow out the heat, and enjoy this irresistible combination of textures and tastes!

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