Description
Spicy and irresistible, Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños deliver a flavor explosion that ignites taste buds. Creamy cheese, zesty shrimp, and bold Cajun spices create an appetizer so addictive you’ll crave them at every gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 12 large jalapenos, halved lengthwise and seeds removed
- ½ pound (225 g) shrimp, peeled, deveined, and finely chopped
- 4 ounces (115 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (50 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup (30 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (or to taste)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon green onions, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnish:
- Chopped parsley or green onions
- A sprinkle of Parmesan (optional)
Instructions
- Warm the culinary workspace by setting the oven to a robust 400F (200C), preparing a baking sheet with parchment or aluminum foil for optimal heat distribution.
- Transform jalapeños into delicate vessels by slicing them lengthwise and meticulously removing seeds and inner membranes, creating perfect pockets for the upcoming flavor explosion.
- Initiate the seafood preparation by heating olive oil in a skillet, introducing chopped shrimp, vibrant Cajun seasoning, and aromatic garlic. Sauté the mixture until the shrimp turns opaque and tender, approximately 2-3 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
- Craft the luxurious filling by blending the freshly cooked shrimp with cream cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, and finely chopped green onions. Harmonize the mixture with a delicate balance of salt and black pepper to elevate the overall taste profile.
- Carefully nestle the rich shrimp and cheese medley into each jalapeño half, pressing gently to ensure a complete and generous filling.
- Arrange the stuffed peppers on the prepared baking sheet, then slide into the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese transforms into a bubbling, golden landscape and the jalapeños become tender.
- Complete the culinary creation by garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions, and optional Parmesan for an extra layer of sophistication. Serve immediately while the flavors are at their peak of intensity.
Notes
- Handling Spice Levels: Remove jalapeño seeds and membranes completely to reduce heat intensity, perfect for those with lower spice tolerance.
- Cheese Flexibility: Swap cream cheese with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for a lighter, protein-rich alternative that maintains creamy texture.
- Seafood Substitution: Replace shrimp with diced chicken, crab meat, or plant-based protein like tofu for diverse dietary preferences.
- Preparation Tip: Wear disposable gloves when handling jalapeños to prevent skin irritation and accidentally transferring capsaicin to sensitive areas like eyes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 360 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg