Take your appetizer game to the next level with these Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Shrimp. This dish combines the creamy, spicy goodness of jalapeño poppers with the succulent flavor of shrimp, creating a crowd-pleasing bite that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s get started on this irresistible recipe!
Ingredients
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 1 large jalapeño, finely chopped
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 slices bacon, cut in half
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Butterfly the shrimp by slicing them down the back, being careful not to cut all the way through. Open them up slightly to create a pocket for the filling.
- In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped jalapeño, green onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Spoon about a teaspoon of the cheese mixture into each butterflied shrimp, pressing gently to fill the pocket.
- Wrap each shrimp with a half slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
- Place the stuffed shrimp on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, and the bacon is crispy.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and serve with lime wedges if desired.
How to Prepare
The secret to these delicious Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Shrimp is in the balance of flavors and textures. The cream cheese and cheddar mixture provides a creamy, tangy filling, while the jalapeños add just the right amount of heat. Wrapping the shrimp in bacon not only adds flavor but also helps keep the filling in place while baking. Make sure the shrimp are butterflied well to hold the filling securely.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: About 40 minutes
Servings
This recipe yields 12 stuffed shrimp, serving 4-6 people as an appetizer.
FAQs
- Can I make these stuffed shrimp ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shrimp up to a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.
- Can I grill these instead of baking? Absolutely! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the stuffed shrimp for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
- What can I serve with Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Shrimp? They pair well with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, spicy mayo, or a cool avocado dip. They also make a great addition to a seafood platter.
- How can I make this dish spicier? Add more chopped jalapeños to the filling or use a hotter variety of pepper. You can also sprinkle a bit of cayenne pepper into the cheese mixture.
- Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a bit of blue cheese for a different flavor profile.