Start by preparing the shrimp. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season them with the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are fully cooked and pink. Remove from the skillet and let the shrimp cool for a few minutes. Once cooled, chop the shrimp into small pieces.
Step 2: Make the Shrimp Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and green onions. Stir everything together until well mixed. The creamy cheese will bind the shrimp together and give the filling a rich texture.
Step 3: Prepare the Jalapeños
Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to reduce the heat. If you prefer extra spicy jalapeños, you can leave some of the membranes intact. Be sure to wear gloves while handling the peppers to avoid irritation from the capsicum (the compound that makes them hot).
Drizzle the cut jalapeños with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. This will help the peppers roast to perfection in the oven.
Step 4: Stuff the Jalapeños
Spoon the shrimp mixture into the hollowed-out jalapeños, filling them generously. Be sure to pack the filling tightly so it stays in place while baking.
Step 5: Add the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the stuffed jalapeños. The breadcrumbs will create a crispy topping, adding a satisfying crunch to the dish.
Step 6: Bake the Stuffed Jalapeños
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the jalapeños are tender, the filling is golden and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs have turned crispy and golden brown.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the jalapeños from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra green onions for a fresh, colorful touch. Serve these Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños with a dipping sauce on the side, such as ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or a simple squeeze of lime for an extra zing.
Tips for Perfect Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños:
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you want a milder dish, make sure to remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños. If you like it spicy, leave some membranes in for extra heat.
- Grill Instead of Bake: For a smoky flavor, you can grill the stuffed jalapeños instead of baking them. Simply place them on the grill over medium heat for about 10-12 minutes, or until the peppers are softened and the filling is cooked through.
- Use Shrimp Variations: If you don’t have large shrimp, feel free to use smaller shrimp, or you can even use crab meat for a seafood twist.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed jalapeños in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This is a great option for entertaining or meal prepping.
Why You’ll Love These Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños:
These stuffed jalapeños offer the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors. The combination of Cajun-seasoned shrimp and creamy cheeses pairs perfectly with the spicy bite of the jalapeños. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a fun appetizer, or simply want to treat yourself to something flavorful, these stuffed jalapeños will impress every time.
The crisp, golden breadcrumb topping adds texture and a touch of crunch, elevating these fiery appetizers into something truly special. Plus, they’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Don’t forget the lime wedges or dipping sauce on the side to cool things down if needed!
Enjoy every spicy bite, and let the Cajun flavors shine through!