Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños

These Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños are a bold, savory appetizer featuring plump shrimp spiced with Cajun seasoning and nestled inside tender jalapeño halves. Topped with gooey melting cheese, they deliver the perfect blend of heat, creaminess, and crunch—ready in about 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed – spicy jalapeños meet zesty Cajun shrimp and creamy cheese

• Quick prep – just 15 minutes to assemble, 15 minutes to bake

• Make-ahead ready – prep in advance, bake before serving for last-minute guests

• Customizable heat – easily adjust spice level by removing or keeping seeds

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 12 large jalapeños, halved and seeded

• ½ lb cooked shrimp, finely chopped

• ½ cup soft cream cheese

• ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning

• Fresh chives, sliced (for garnish)

• Optional: garlic powder, cooking spray or olive oil

directions

1. Preheat & prep jalapeños
   Preheat oven to 375 °F (190 °C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease it. Halve each jalapeño lengthwise, remove seeds and membranes (leave some if you like extra heat).

2. Make the filling
   In a bowl, stir together chopped shrimp, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Cajun seasoning, and a pinch of garlic powder if desired. Mix until smooth and evenly combined.

3. Stuff the peppers
   Spoon the shrimp mixture into each jalapeño half, filling them generously.

4. Bake
   Arrange the stuffed peppers on the baking sheet. Lightly drizzle or spray with olive oil. Bake 12–15 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and tops are just golden.

5. Garnish & serve
   Remove from oven and sprinkle with sliced fresh chives. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6 (2 peppers each, 12 halves)

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Protein swap: Replace shrimp with crab meat or shredded chicken

• Cheese swap: Use pepper jack or smoked gouda for a different flavor twist

• Mild version: Soak jalapeños in cold water for 30 minutes before stuffing

• Vegetarian option: Use sautéed mushrooms and spinach in place of shrimp

• Crunchy topping: Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking

storage/reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight container for up to 3 days

• Reheat: Bake at 350 °F (175 °C) for 5–7 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwave to keep jalapeños from becoming soggy

• Make-ahead tip: Stuff peppers up to 24 hours before baking—keep covered in fridge and bake fresh before serving

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes—you can prepare and stuff the jalapeños up to a day before. Keep them covered in the fridge and bake just before serving.

What’s the best way to remove jalapeño heat?

Remove all seeds and inner membranes, or soak the halves in cold water for 30 minutes before stuffing.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely—defrost and pat dry before chopping. You can use cooked fresh, canned, or frozen shrimp.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes—just ensure your seasonings and cheese are certified gluten-free if needed.

What’s a good dipping sauce?

Ranch, sour cream, or remoulade pair beautifully. A drizzle of sriracha adds extra heat.

Can I freeze them?

Yes—freeze stuffed (uncooked) peppers on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to cook time.

How spicy are they?

Heat depends on the jalapeños used. For milder bites, remove membranes and seeds completely.

Can I make them vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute shrimp with diced mushrooms, spinach, or beans and adjust seasonings.

Can I add more spice?

Sure—fold in a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce into the filling for an extra kick.

Can I add crunchy toppings?

Yes—try panko breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips for added texture.

Conclusion

Fiery Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeños are the ultimate party appetizer—bold, creamy, spicy, and easy to make. With minimal prep and baking time, plus options for make-ahead or customization, they’re sure to impress at any gathering. Dive into these succulent bites and watch them disappear!