Cajun Shrimp Jalapeño Poppers
Ingredients
- 12 large fresh jalapeño peppers
- 12 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 teaspoons Cajun Seafood Products Season-All
- 12 slices of bacon
- 24 wooden toothpicks
- Optional: Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
Instructions
1. Prepare the Jalapeños:
- Slice and Clean: Carefully slice each jalapeño pepper in half lengthwise. Using a small spoon, remove the seeds and membranes. (Note: For milder poppers, ensure all seeds and membranes are removed. Wear gloves to protect your hands from the capsaicin.)
2. Prepare the Filling:
- Mix Cheeses and Seasoning: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and 1 teaspoon of Cajun Seafood Products Season-All. Mix until well blended.
3. Season the Shrimp:
- Season Shrimp: In a separate bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with the remaining 1 teaspoon of Cajun Seafood Products Season-All, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Assemble the Poppers:
- Fill Jalapeños: Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, filling them generously.
- Add Shrimp: Place one seasoned shrimp on top of the cheese filling in each jalapeño half.
- Wrap with Bacon: Cut the bacon slices in half. Wrap each jalapeño half with half a slice of bacon, ensuring that it covers the shrimp and secures the filling. Use a wooden toothpick to hold the bacon in place.
5. Cook the Poppers:
- Oven Method:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake: Place the assembled jalapeño poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the jalapeños are tender.
- Grill Method:
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill: Place the poppers on the grill, using a grill mat or aluminum foil to prevent sticking. Grill for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the jalapeños are cooked.
6. Serve:
- Plate and Enjoy: Remove the toothpicks before serving. Arrange the Cajun Shrimp Jalapeño Poppers on a platter and serve hot with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side, if desired.
Tips
- Handling Jalapeños: Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling jalapeños, or wear disposable gloves to prevent skin irritation.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or Monterey jack for added flavor.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun Seafood Products Season-All according to your preferred spice level.
Enjoy these flavorful Cajun Shrimp Jalapeño Poppers as an appetizer at your next gathering or as a delicious snack!