Description
Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños are a spicy, savory appetizer that combines tender cooked shrimp with creamy cheeses and smoky bacon, all stuffed into fresh jalapeño halves and baked to perfection. This dish offers a delightful balance of heat and flavor, enhanced by a touch of Cajun seasoning and topped with fresh chives for a burst of freshness. Perfect as a party finger food or a flavorful snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Jalapeños
- 12 large jalapeños, halved and seeds removed
Filling
- 1/2 lb cooked shrimp, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
Garnish
- Fresh chives, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the stuffed jalapeños evenly.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped cooked shrimp, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, Cajun seasoning, and crumbled cooked bacon. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined to create a creamy, flavorful stuffing.
- Stuff Jalapeños: Spoon the shrimp and cheese mixture generously into each jalapeño half, making sure each cavity is filled but not overflowing to avoid spilling during baking.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced out enough to allow even heat circulation during baking.
- Bake: Bake the jalapeños in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top, indicating the filling is hot and cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the stuffed jalapeños from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped chives for a bright, fresh contrast, and serve warm as an irresistible appetizer or snack.
Notes
- For less heat, remove the jalapeño membranes or soak the jalapeño halves in milk before stuffing.
- Use cooked shrimp to save time; fresh shrimp can be cooked quickly by sautéing before chopping.
- Substitute cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Ensure to remove seeds carefully to balance the spice level without making it too mild.
- Serve immediately for best texture; leftovers can be reheated but may lose some crispness.
