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If you’re looking for a party appetizer that will blow everyone’s mind, Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Shrimp is your go-to dish. These spicy, creamy, cheesy bites are wrapped in savory shrimp and baked to perfection—making them a standout crowd-pleaser for game days, holidays, or a flavor-packed dinner. Combining the irresistible flavors of jalapeño poppers and juicy shrimp, this dish is bold, rich, and totally unforgettable.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Shrimp
This fusion of seafood and spice hits all the right notes:
- Creamy and spicy: The jalapeño and cream cheese filling adds the classic popper punch.
- Protein-packed: Shrimp is low in fat and high in protein.
- Perfect for parties: These bite-sized bombs are easy to serve and eat.
- Bacon-friendly: You can even wrap them in bacon for an extra layer of smoky goodness!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create these popper-style shrimp, gather:
- 16–20 large shrimp (peeled, deveined, and butterflied)
- 1 fresh jalapeño (finely chopped)
- 1/2 block (about 4 oz) of cream cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 1 tbsp chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 8 slices of bacon (cut in half)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Shrimp
- Peel and devein the shrimp. Butterfly them by slicing along the back, creating a pocket for the filling.
- Pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Make the Filling
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, jalapeño, cheddar, garlic, and green onions. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Spoon a small amount into each butterflied shrimp.
3. Optional: Wrap in Bacon
- Wrap each stuffed shrimp with half a slice of bacon for a smoky twist.
- Secure with a toothpick if needed.
4. Bake or Grill
- Place the stuffed shrimp on a baking sheet.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and firm, and the cheese is bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed shrimp are perfect on their own, but they also pair well with:
- A zesty lime aioli
- Creamy ranch dip
- A bed of fresh greens for a low-carb twist
Nutritional Info per Serving (4 Shrimp)
Here’s a rough estimate of the calorie count:
Component | Calories |
---|---|
Shrimp (4 large) | 80 |
Cream cheese (2 oz) | 200 |
Cheddar cheese (1/8 cup) | 55 |
Jalapeño & garlic | 5 |
Bacon (2 slices, optional) | 87 |
Total (no bacon) | 340 |
Total (with bacon) | 427 |
Note: Exact calorie values may vary based on size of shrimp and portion of filling.
Tips for Success
Use Jumbo Shrimp
Larger shrimp are easier to stuff and hold more filling without falling apart.
Control the Heat
Remove the jalapeño seeds and ribs for a milder flavor, or keep them in if you love the spice!
Make Ahead
Stuff the shrimp in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Shrimp is a fusion recipe that brings together spicy, creamy, and savory flavors in one epic bite. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to level up your seafood game, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Give it a try and watch it disappear faster than you can say “jalapeño!”