Shrimp Stuffed Jalapenos are a delightful treat that combines the spicy kick of jalapenos with a rich and creamy shrimp filling. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or simply as a tasty snack, these poppers stand out for their bold flavors and easy preparation. The combination of tender shrimp and melted cheese makes them irresistible, ensuring they’ll be a hit at any event.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With just a few steps, you can whip up these delicious poppers in no time.
- Flavor Explosion: The mix of creamy cheese and seasoned shrimp creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile Snack: Great for parties, tailgating, or as a fun appetizer at dinner gatherings.
- Crowd-Pleasing: These stuffed jalapenos are sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer jalapenos or seasonings.
Tools and Preparation
To make Shrimp Stuffed Jalapenos, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Mixing bowl
- Fork
- Baking sheet
- Oven
Why These Tools Matter
- Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to easily combine ingredients without making a mess.
- Fork: Perfect for mashing together the creamy filling for an even texture.
- Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking and provides enough space to arrange your stuffed jalapenos without crowding them.
- Oven: Essential for baking your poppers to perfection, allowing them to become soft and golden brown.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 6 oz canned tiny shrimp (drained)
- 8 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 tsp Old Bay seafood seasoning
- 4 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp dried minced onion
- 1 pinch kosher salt
For the Peppers
- 16 jalapenos (sliced in half, seed and ribs removed)
How to Make Shrimp Stuffed Jalapenos
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Heat your oven to 400°F. This ensures your poppers bake evenly and achieve that perfect texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a medium mixing bowl:
1. Use a fork to combine the tiny shrimp, cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, Old Bay seasoning, dried minced onion, and a pinch of kosher salt.
2. Mix until everything is well blended.
Step 3: Stuff the Jalapenos
- Take each halved jalapeno and carefully spoon in some of the shrimp filling.
- Place each stuffed jalapeno on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
Step 4: Bake
Bake the jalapenos in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes:
– Keep an eye on them until they soften up and the filling turns lightly golden brown.
Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Stuffed Jalapenos! They’re not just appetizers; they’re guaranteed to be a highlight of any meal!
How to Serve Shrimp Stuffed Jalapenos
Shrimp Stuffed Jalapenos are a delicious appetizer that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging at home, these poppers can be served alongside different dips and sides for an enhanced experience.
With Dips
- Guacamole – The creamy texture of guacamole complements the spicy jalapenos perfectly.
- Sour Cream – A classic choice, sour cream adds a cooling effect to the spicy shrimp filling.
- Salsa – Fresh salsa brings a burst of flavor that pairs well with the stuffed jalapenos.
On a Platter
- Vegetable Platter – Serve with an assortment of fresh vegetables for a colorful and healthy option.
- Cheese Board – Add your shrimp stuffed jalapenos to a cheese board with various cheeses and crackers for an elegant touch.
As Part of a Meal
- Tacos – Include them as a side to your favorite taco dish for added flavor.
- Salad – Pair with a light salad to balance out the richness of the poppers.
How to Perfect Shrimp Stuffed Jalapenos
To make Shrimp Stuffed Jalapenos truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips for the best results.
- Choose Fresh Jalapenos – Selecting firm, fresh jalapenos will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.
- Mix Ingredients Thoroughly – Ensure that all filling ingredients are well combined for even distribution of flavors.
- Adjust Spice Level – If you prefer more heat, consider adding diced fresh jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the filling.
- Bake Until Golden – Keep an eye on your poppers while baking; they should be golden brown on top for optimal taste and presentation.
- Serve Immediately – For the best experience, serve them hot right out of the oven while the cheese is still gooey.
- Experiment with Cheese – Try different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for varying flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Stuffed Jalapenos
Serving side dishes alongside Shrimp Stuffed Jalapenos can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the spicy poppers nicely.
- Coleslaw – A refreshing slaw adds crunch and balances the heat from the jalapenos.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn contrasts beautifully with savory stuffed jalapenos; grill it for extra flavor.
- Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans provide a hearty side that works well with this appetizer.
- Potato Chips – Simple yet effective, crispy chips add texture and can be enjoyed with leftover dip from your poppers.
- Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad offers a sweet contrast that enhances the overall meal experience.
- Queso Dip – Warm queso is perfect for dipping additional snacks or veggies alongside your poppers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Shrimp Stuffed Jalapenos is simple, but there are some common mistakes to keep in mind to ensure delicious results.
- Overstuffing the jalapenos: Filling the jalapenos too much can lead to spills during baking. Aim for a generous yet controlled amount of filling.
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to add enough seasoning can make your poppers bland. Use Old Bay seasoning and taste your filling before stuffing.
- Not removing seeds and ribs: Leaving seeds and ribs can make the jalapenos too spicy. Always slice them in half and remove these parts for balanced flavor.
- Baking at the wrong temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can affect cooking time. Always preheat your oven to 400°F for best results.
- Using cold cream cheese: Cold cream cheese makes it hard to mix with other ingredients. Ensure that it’s at room temperature for a smooth filling.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Shrimp Stuffed Jalapenos in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Shrimp Stuffed Jalapenos
- Place stuffed jalapenos in a single layer on a baking sheet before freezing.
- Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating Shrimp Stuffed Jalapenos
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Stovetop: Place them in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5-7 minutes until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh shrimp instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh shrimp! Just cook and chop them before mixing with other ingredients.
How spicy are Shrimp Stuffed Jalapenos?
The spice level depends on the jalapeno variety used. For milder flavors, choose larger or lighter-colored jalapeños.
Can I customize the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to add different cheeses or spices according to your taste preferences.
How do I serve Shrimp Stuffed Jalapenos?
These poppers are perfect as appetizers; serve them warm with dipping sauces like ranch or salsa.
Conclusion
Shrimp Stuffed Jalapenos are not only tasty but also versatile for any gathering. You can easily customize them with different fillings or spices, making this dish perfect for game day, parties, or casual snacks. Try this recipe today for a delightful culinary experience!
Shrimp Stuffed Jalapenos
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8 (16 halves) 1x
Description
Shrimp Stuffed Jalapenos are a mouthwatering appetizer that combines the fresh heat of jalapenos with a creamy, savory filling. These delightful poppers are perfect for parties, game days, or as a fun snack at home. With tender shrimp blended with rich cream cheese and sharp cheddar, each bite delivers an explosion of flavor that will leave your guests craving more. Not only are they easy to prepare, but you can also customize them to match your spice preference, making them a versatile choice for any occasion. Serve these irresistible stuffed jalapenos with refreshing dips or alongside your favorite sides for a truly memorable culinary experience.
Ingredients
- 6 oz canned tiny shrimp (drained)
- 8 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 4 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp dried minced onion
- 16 jalapenos (sliced in half, seeds and ribs removed)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the tiny shrimp, cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, Old Bay seasoning, dried minced onion, and a pinch of kosher salt. Mix well until combined.
- Carefully spoon the filling into each halved jalapeno and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for about 20 minutes or until the jalapenos are soft and the filling is golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers & Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed jalapenos (90g)
- Calories: 198
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 476mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 56mg
