Imagine biting into a perfectly crispy, golden shrimp that explodes with creamy, spicy flavor - that's exactly what our Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Shrimp delivers! This mouthwatering fusion of Mexican-inspired cuisine and seafood elegance transforms an ordinary appetizer into an extraordinary culinary experience that will have your guests begging for the recipe. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or craving a gourmet treat, these stuffed shrimp are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped jalapenos
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp by carefully peeling and deveining them, leaving the tail intact. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure proper seasoning and stuffing.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, finely chopped jalapenos, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Butterfly each shrimp by making a deep cut along the back, being careful not to cut completely through. Gently open the shrimp to create a pocket for stuffing.
- Fill each shrimp with a generous spoonful of the jalapeno-cheese mixture, pressing gently to ensure the filling stays in place.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the stuffed shrimp, coating them evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Arrange the stuffed shrimp on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Drizzle olive oil lightly over the shrimp to help the breadcrumbs become golden and crispy.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the filling to set and cool slightly.
- Serve immediately as an appetizer or main course, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon if desired.
Tips
- Choose large shrimp for the best stuffing results - they provide more space for the delicious cheese mixture.
- Pat shrimp completely dry before stuffing to ensure crispy breadcrumb coating.
- Use fresh jalapeños for maximum flavor, and remove seeds if you prefer less heat.
- Don't overstuff the shrimp - a generous teaspoon of filling is perfect.
- Use parchment paper or a well-oiled baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Watch closely during the last few minutes of baking to prevent breadcrumbs from burning.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and temperature.
- Optional: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 180mg
