There’s nothing quite like the irresistible combination of spice, creaminess, and the subtle sweetness of shrimp in every bite of Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers. This delightful appetizer brings together the bold flavors of jalapeños with the richness of cream cheese and the savory touch of cheddar, crowned by the succulent taste of shrimp. Each popper is a festival of flavors and textures, making it a perfect pair for party refreshments or a starter to impress your guests.
The beauty of Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers lies not only in their delectable taste but also in their simplicity and ease of preparation. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe welcoming with its straightforward steps. Add a sprinkle of optional breadcrumbs on top for that satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the melty cheese and tender shrimp. These poppers aren’t just a treat for the taste buds; they’re a visual delight too—bright green jalapeños topped with a golden crust, teasing you to take a bite.
Perfect as an appetizer or a snack, these jalapeño poppers promise to bring zest to any occasion. The combination of creamy and spicy ingredients ensures that your guests will be reaching for more, making these poppers not only delicious but also highly sociable! Indulge in a little bit of spice and a whole lot of flavor with these Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers that are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers Recipe
- Unique Taste: Combining the kick of jalapeños with creamy cheese and shrimp offers a distinctive taste.
- Easy to Prepare: Simple steps suitable for any cooking level.
- Customizable: Adjust spice levels or add breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Visual Appeal: Bright and colorful presence at any table setting.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into making Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers, there are a few preparatory steps to ensure a smooth cooking experience. First and foremost, make sure your kitchen workspace is tidy and all necessary ingredients are within reach. Organize a kitchen counter with a chopping board, sharp knife, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This gets you off to a good start to efficiently prepare and bake the poppers.
For this recipe, you will need an oven preheated to 400°F (200°C) and a baking tray. Additionally, a mixing bowl will be necessary to combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into a smooth, creamy cheese mixture. To add nuance to your poppers, consider using a spoon or a piping bag to fill jalapeño halves with the cheese mixture adequately. Don’t forget the final touches—a touch of olive oil for sautéing the jalapeños and an optional sprinkle of breadcrumbs for enhanced texture.
Ingredients
- 12 large jalapeños, halved and seeded
- 12 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup panko or breadcrumbs (optional topping)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Jalapeños
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes to reduce heat and accommodate the filling. Place the halved jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over them and bake in the oven for approximately 5 minutes. This softens the peppers slightly, making them more pliable for stuffing.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix these ingredients until you achieve a smooth, consistent filling. This mixture forms the creamy foundation that contrasts the spicy jalapeños perfectly, ensuring each popper bites back with flavor.
Step 3: Stuff and Top the Jalapeños
Using a spoon or piping bag, fill the jalapeño halves with the cheese mixture. Press one shrimp, tailored to fit snugly, into the center of each cheese-filled jalapeño. For those opting to use breadcrumbs, sprinkle panko or breadcrumbs on top to add an appealing crunch once baked. These enhancements make the poppers even more irresistible.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the stuffed jalapeños back in the oven. Bake for around 12–15 minutes, checking until the shrimp is cooked through, the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown. This careful baking process ensures your poppers are perfectly cooked with a delightful combination of textures.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute shrimp with cooked sausage, bacon, or even vegetarian options like mushrooms for a different spin.
- Vegetables: Add diced bell peppers or red onion to the cheese mixture for added crunch and color.
- Spices: Experiment with spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or chili flakes to customize the heat and flavor profile to your liking.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure shrimp is fully cooked to pink and opaque for food safety.
- Taste your cheese mixture and adjust seasoning before stuffing to ensure an ideal flavor balance.
- Consider wearing gloves when handling jalapeños to prevent skin irritation from capsaicin.
- For a milder version, use smaller or milder peppers, or soak jalapeños in cold water to reduce their heat.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these poppers with a refreshing sour cream or lime yogurt dip to balance the spiciness.
- Serve alongside a variety of salsas or guacamole for an authentic Mexican feel.
Tips
- For easier filling, use a piping bag for the cheese mixture, ensuring even portions and less mess.
- Opt for jumbo prawns if available, cut to fit, for a more luxurious twist.
- Allow poppers to cool slightly before serving, as the cheese may be scalding.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 17-20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 80 per popper
- Protein: About 4 grams per popper
- Sodium: Approx. 170 mg per popper
FAQs
Can I make Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and stuff the jalapeños ahead of time, then refrigerate them until ready to bake, ensuring they are covered tightly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot oven to retain crispiness.
How can I make this recipe less spicy?
Opt for a less spicy pepper variety or remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapeños. Soaking them in cold water can also reduce heat.
What dipping sauce pairs well with these poppers?
Try a creamy sauce like ranch or an avocado-based dip. A spicy chipotle sauce also complements well for heat lovers.
Conclusion
If you’re searching for an appetizer that stands out, Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers should be at the top of your list. The seamless blend of spicy jalapeños, creamy cheese filling, and tender shrimp provides a flavor explosion in every bite. Perfect for family gatherings, parties, or simply indulging in a bold snack, these poppers are guaranteed to please every crowd they meet. Try different variations, play with flavors, and make them your signature dish. Remember to share your culinary creation, comment, and exchange tips with others who equally admire the dynamic flavor profile of Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers. Enjoy and happy cooking!
Print
Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 poppers 1x
Description
Indulge in the perfect appetizer with the irresistible combination of spice, creaminess, and shrimp in Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers.
Ingredients
- 12 large jalapeños, halved and seeded
- 12 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup panko or breadcrumbs (optional topping)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes. Place on a baking sheet with parchment paper, drizzle olive oil, and bake for 5 minutes to soften.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Fill jalapeños with this mixture using a spoon or piping bag, then place a shrimp in each.
- Optionally, sprinkle breadcrumbs over each. Bake stuffed jalapeños for 12–15 minutes until shrimp is cooked and cheese is melted and golden brown.
Notes
To make ahead, prepare and stuff jalapeños, then refrigerate until baking. Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 17-20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: 80 kcal per popper
- Sodium: 170 mg per popper
- Protein: 4 g per popper