Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños

Prep Time: 25 minutes

 Cook Time: 15 minutes

 Total Time: 40 minutes

 Servings: 12 stuffed jalapeño halves

 Spice Level: Medium to Hot

 Difficulty: Easy

Introduction

If you’re looking to turn up the heat at your next gathering, these Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños are the spicy, cheesy, smoky bites of your dreams. Fresh jalapeños are halved and filled with a creamy Cajun shrimp and cheese mixture, then baked (or grilled!) to perfection.

They’re crunchy, creamy, spicy, and loaded with Louisiana flavor. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer, a tailgate snack, or just treating yourself — these little guys pack a big punch.

Ingredients

 For the Filling:

• ½ lb raw shrimp (peeled, deveined, finely chopped)

• 6 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar (or pepper jack for extra heat)

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning

• 1 green onion, finely chopped

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

• Juice of ½ lemon

• Pinch of salt & pepper

 For the Jalapeños:

• 6 large jalapeño peppers, halved lengthwise and seeds removed

• Olive oil (for brushing)

 Optional Toppings:

• Extra shredded cheese (for melty tops)

• Crushed Ritz or panko (for crunch)

• Hot sauce drizzle or chipotle aioli (for serving)

Preparation Overview

1. Prep the jalapeños and shrimp – 10 minutes

2. Mix the filling – 10 minutes

3. Stuff and bake – 15–20 minutes

Instructions

 Step 1: Prep the Jalapeños

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil.

Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes (wear gloves if you’re sensitive to chili oils). Lightly brush the inside of each half with olive oil and set them on the baking sheet, cut side up.

Pro Tip: Want to tone down the heat? Soak halved jalapeños in cold water for 10 minutes before stuffing.

 Step 2: Make the Cajun Shrimp Filling

In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic, Cajun seasoning, lemon juice, green onion, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Fold in the finely chopped raw shrimp. The shrimp will cook fully in the oven and infuse the filling with incredible flavor.

Want extra kick? Add a dash of cayenne or chopped chipotle peppers in adobo to the mix.

 Step 3: Stuff the Jalapeños

Spoon the shrimp filling generously into each jalapeño half. Pile it high — it will puff slightly when baking.

Top with extra cheese if you love it melty, or sprinkle with breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.

Place in the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the jalapeños are tender and the filling is golden and bubbly.

Switch to broil for the last 1–2 minutes if you want a browned top.

 Optional: Grill Instead

Want a smoky flavor? Grill them! Preheat grill to medium-high. Place jalapeños directly on the grates or in a grill-safe pan. Close lid and cook for 10–12 minutes, until shrimp is opaque and cheese is melted.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these fiery bites hot from the oven, garnished with:

• Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro)

• A drizzle of hot sauce, sriracha, or chipotle mayo

• Crumbled bacon (because why not?)

• A cold beer or spicy margarita

These pair beautifully with ranch or blue cheese dressing to balance the heat!

Difficulty & Intensity

• Skill Level: Easy

• Why: Simple prep, one bowl, and a short bake time

• Intensity: Medium – hot. Jalapeños bring the heat, but you can control it!

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Make Ahead:

• Stuff the jalapeños and refrigerate (covered) up to 1 day in advance.

• Bake right before serving.

Storage:

• Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days.

• Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes.

Freezer-Friendly:

• Freeze stuffed (but unbaked) jalapeños on a tray. Once solid, transfer to a zip bag.

• Bake from frozen at 375°F for 20–25 minutes.

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Nutritional Info (Per Stuffed Half – Approximate)

Note: Varies depending on cheese and toppings used.

Spicy Variations & Twists

Cajun Corn & Shrimp: Add roasted corn kernels for extra texture and sweetness.
Mac & Cheese Stuffed Jalapeños: Mix cooked pasta with the shrimp filling for a twist.
Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap each jalapeño in half a slice of bacon before baking — secure with a toothpick!
Creamy Avocado Shrimp: Add mashed avocado to the mix for a richer, milder version.

Final Thoughts

These Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños are the perfect balance of bold flavor and creamy heat. They’re easy to prep, super customizable, and guaranteed to disappear fast. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or making a spicy snack for two, these little firecrackers are always a hit.