Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers

Jalapeño poppers are a classic appetizer, but adding shrimp takes them to a whole new level of deliciousness. These poppers are not only spicy but also rich in flavor, making them the star of any party.

Whether you're hosting a game day or a casual get-together, these shrimp stuffed jalapeño poppers will be a hit.

(Source: USDA)

Why You’ll Love This

You'll love these Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers for their perfect balance of heat and flavor. The shrimp adds a unique twist to the traditional popper, providing a seafood element that is both surprising and delightful.

Wrapped in bacon, these poppers have a crispy exterior with a creamy cheese filling, creating a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Ingredients

• 12 large jalapeños
• 12 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 12 strips bacon
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon sour cream
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey

Ingredient Notes (What & Why)

• Choose jalapeños that are firm and bright green for the best flavor. (Source: Serious Eats)
• Use medium-sized shrimp to ensure they fit inside the jalapeños. (Source: BBC Good Food)
• You can substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack for a milder flavor. (Source: Bon Appétit)
• Smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness to the filling. (Source: NYT Cooking)
• Lime juice helps balance the richness of the cheese and shrimp.

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Skillet
• Spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Toothpicks
• Measuring spoons
• Tongs

Timing & Temperature Guide

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) for optimal baking.
• Cook shrimp over medium heat until just pink and opaque.
• Bake poppers for 15-20 minutes for crispy bacon.
• Let poppers cool for 5 minutes before serving.
• Chill filling for 10 minutes before stuffing for firmer texture.
• Allow poppers to rest for 2-3 minutes to set before cutting.
• Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure shrimp reaches 145°F (63°C).

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes using a spoon.
3. In a bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, lime juice, and cilantro. Mix until well blended.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
5. Chop cooked shrimp into small pieces and fold into the cheese mixture.
6. Stuff each jalapeño half with the shrimp and cheese mixture, pressing gently to fill.
7. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a strip of bacon, securing with a toothpick if necessary.
8. Place the poppers on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy.
9. While baking, mix sour cream, hot sauce, and honey in a small bowl to create a dipping sauce.
10. Remove poppers from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
11. Garnish with chopped green onions and additional cilantro, if desired.
12. Serve with the prepared dipping sauce on the side.
13. Enjoy your shrimp stuffed jalapeño poppers warm or at room temperature.
14. Clean up any leftover seeds or membranes to prevent accidental spiciness.

Culinary Science Notes

• Jalapeños contain capsaicin, which provides their heat level {USDA,https://www.usda.gov}.
• Cheese helps neutralize the heat by coating capsaicin receptors.
• Bacon fat renders during cooking, adding flavor and crispiness.
• Lime juice adds acidity, which balances the richness of the dish.
• Cooking shrimp just until opaque ensures they remain tender.
• Cilantro adds freshness, contrasting the creamy and spicy elements.
• Preheating the oven ensures even cooking and crisp bacon.
• Searing shrimp first locks in moisture and flavor.

Pro Tips

• For less heat, remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapeños.
• Try using a toothpick to secure the bacon if it doesn’t stay wrapped.
• Pre-cook bacon slightly if you prefer ultra-crispy bacon.
• Experiment with different cheese blends for varied flavors.
• Make sure to pat shrimp dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
• Consider grilling the poppers for a smoky flavor.
• Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation.
• Chill the stuffed jalapeños before wrapping in bacon for easier handling.
• Pair with a light beer to complement the spicy and savory flavors.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Serve with a side of guacamole for a complete appetizer platter.
• Use a piping bag to neatly fill the jalapeños with the cheese mixture.

Variations

• Use crab meat instead of shrimp for a different seafood flavor.
• Add a sprinkle of parmesan on top before baking for extra cheesy goodness.
• Incorporate diced bell peppers into the filling for additional crunch.
• Substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option.
• Add chopped jalapeños to the cheese mixture for a double pepper hit.
• Try using goat cheese for a tangier filling.
• Include sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
• Replace cilantro with parsley if preferred.
• Use smoked salmon and cream cheese for a lox-inspired popper.
• Make them vegetarian by omitting shrimp and adding black beans.
• For a tropical flavor, add diced pineapple to the filling.
• Wrap in prosciutto for a gourmet touch.

Substitutions

• Replace cream cheese with ricotta for a lighter filling.
• Use turkey bacon as a healthier alternative to regular bacon.
• Swap cheddar for mozzarella for a milder taste.
• Substitute shrimp with small scallops for a different texture.
• Use vegan cream cheese to make it dairy-free.
• Replace lime juice with lemon juice for a slightly different citrus note.
• Try smoked salmon instead of shrimp for a unique flavor.
• Use green bell peppers if jalapeños are too spicy.
• Opt for coconut oil instead of olive oil.
• Replace honey with agave syrup for a vegan option.
• Substitute fresh garlic with garlic powder if in a pinch.
• Use almond cheese for a nutty twist.

Dietary Adaptations

• To make it gluten-free, ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Use plant-based bacon for a vegetarian version.
• Replace dairy cheese with vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
• Opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs if using a breadcrumb topping.
• Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free dipping sauce.
• Choose low-sodium bacon to reduce salt content.
• Use avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
• Replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly sweetener.

Serving Suggestions & Menu Ideas

• Serve with a side of ranch dressing for dipping.
• Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
• Garnish with extra cilantro for a pop of color.
• Add a side of tortilla chips for a crunchy complement.
• Include a fresh salad to balance the richness of the poppers.
• Serve on a platter with lime wedges for added zest.
• Pair with a light beer to cut through the spice.
• Offer a variety of hot sauces for guests to customize their heat level.
• Serve alongside a charcuterie board for a varied appetizer spread.
• Complement with a bowl of salsa for an extra kick.

Menu Ideas

• Serve as an appetizer at a barbecue party.
• Include in a tapas-style dinner with other small bites.
• Pair with grilled corn and a light rice dish for a summer meal.
• Feature in a seafood-themed dinner party.
• Incorporate into a game day snack lineup.
• Serve alongside margaritas for a Mexican-inspired evening.
• Add to a holiday appetizer table for a spicy option.
• Include in a potluck spread to impress guests.

Seasonal Variations

• Add diced fresh tomatoes in summer for brightness.
• Incorporate roasted squash in fall for a seasonal touch.
• Use fresh corn kernels in late summer for sweetness.
• Add pomegranate seeds in winter for a festive look.
• Include fresh basil in spring for a fragrant note.
• Use smoked turkey bacon in fall for a cozy flavor.
• Incorporate cranberries during the holiday season.
• Add a touch of cinnamon in winter for warmth.

Troubleshooting & Common Mistakes

• If poppers are too spicy, ensure all seeds and membranes are removed.
• Bacon not crisping? Try broiling for the last few minutes.
• Cheese mixture too runny? Chill before stuffing.
• Shrimp overcooked? Ensure cooking time is brief and monitored.
• Poppers falling apart? Secure bacon with additional toothpicks.
• Filling spilling out? Avoid overstuffing jalapeños.
• Bacon not wrapping? Use a thinner cut of bacon.
• Poppers sticking to the pan? Ensure parchment paper is used.
• Cheese not melting? Use freshly grated cheese for better melting.
• Flavor too bland? Adjust seasoning with more spices or herbs.
• Too greasy? Pat bacon dry before wrapping jalapeños.
• Uneven cooking? Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking.
• Skipping preheating the oven leads to uneven cooking.
• Overstuffing jalapeños can cause filling to spill out.
• Using cold cream cheese makes mixing difficult.
• Forgetting to secure bacon can cause it to unwrap during baking.
• Neglecting to devein shrimp results in a gritty texture.
• Using pre-packaged shredded cheese can lead to clumpy filling.
• Ignoring recommended bake time can lead to undercooked bacon.
• Not wearing gloves when handling jalapeños can cause skin irritation.
• Overcooking shrimp can make them rubbery.
• Using thick-cut bacon may not crisp up properly.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating

You can prepare the filling and stuff the jalapeños up to a day in advance. Keep them wrapped in bacon and store in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

This allows the flavors to meld together and saves time on the day of your event.

Store any leftover poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent condensation from making the bacon soggy.

Reheat poppers in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bacon chewy.

Freezing, Leftovers & Scaling

To freeze, assemble the poppers without baking. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.

They can be baked directly from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Creative Leftover Ideas

• Chop leftover poppers into a quesadilla filling.
• Dice and add to scrambled eggs for a spicy breakfast.
• Use as a topping for nachos, adding cheese and salsa.
• Incorporate into a cheesy pasta bake for extra flavor.
• Chop and mix into a creamy dip with sour cream and cheese.
• Add to a grilled cheese sandwich for a spicy kick.
• Use as a topping for loaded baked potatoes.
• Scatter over a fresh salad for added protein and spice.

To scale this recipe up, simply multiply the ingredients by the number of desired servings. Be sure to adjust seasoning and baking time as needed to accommodate larger batches.

For smaller gatherings, halving the recipe works well.

Budget Notes & Substitutions

Shrimp can vary in price depending on season and location. Look for sales or purchase frozen shrimp to save costs.

Jalapeños and bacon are generally affordable and can often be found on sale. Using in-season herbs like cilantro can also reduce costs.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 150 per serving
• Total Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 300mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 5g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 7g
• Calcium: 10% of Daily Value
• Iron: 4% of Daily Value
• Vitamin A: 8% of Daily Value
• Vitamin C: 10% of Daily Value
• Potassium: 150mg
• Phosphorus: 75mg

Background & Origins

Jalapeño poppers originated in Texas, where they quickly became a popular appetizer due to their spicy and cheesy nature. The addition of shrimp is a modern twist that enhances the flavor and adds a seafood element, reflecting the influence of coastal cuisine.

Glossary of Terms

Jalapeño

A medium-sized chili pepper known for its mild to moderate heat.

Cream Cheese

A soft, mild-tasting cheese with a high fat content, used for its creamy texture.

Devein

To remove the black vein from the back of a shrimp, often considered gritty.

Paprika

A spice made from ground peppers, used for color and mild flavor.

Opaque

Not transparent or translucent; in cooking, indicates doneness for shrimp.

Searing

A cooking technique where food is cooked at high temperature until a caramelized crust forms.

Cilantro

A herb with a distinctive flavor, commonly used in Mexican cuisine.

Broiling

A cooking method that involves exposing food to direct heat.

FAQs

Can I make these poppers less spicy?

Yes, remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapeños to reduce the heat.

What if I don't have fresh shrimp?

Frozen shrimp can be used; just ensure they are thawed and drained well.

How can I tell if the shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, typically after 2-3 minutes of cooking.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, try Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder flavor.

Is there a vegetarian version?

Yes, omit the shrimp and try adding black beans or mushrooms instead.

What's the best way to wrap the bacon?

Start at one end and wrap tightly, securing with a toothpick if needed.

How do I stop the filling from spilling out?

Avoid overfilling and ensure the bacon is wrapped tightly to hold everything in place.

Can I grill these instead of baking?

Yes, grilling adds a smoky flavor; cook over medium heat until bacon is crispy.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can these be made ahead of time?

Yes, they can be prepared a day in advance and baked just before serving.

Is there a gluten-free version?

Yes, ensure all ingredients, like spices and bacon, are gluten-free.

Can I use a different meat?

Sure, try turkey bacon or prosciutto for a different flavor profile.

Shrimp Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers

Print

Servings12

Prep25m

Cook20m

Total45m

Calories150

Ingredients

• 12 large jalapeños
• 12 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 12 strips bacon
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon sour cream
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes using a spoon.
3. In a bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, lime juice, and cilantro. Mix until well blended.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
5. Chop cooked shrimp into small pieces and fold into the cheese mixture.
6. Stuff each jalapeño half with the shrimp and cheese mixture, pressing gently to fill.
7. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a strip of bacon, securing with a toothpick if necessary.
8. Place the poppers on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy.
9. While baking, mix sour cream, hot sauce, and honey in a small bowl to create a dipping sauce.
10. Remove poppers from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
11. Garnish with chopped green onions and additional cilantro, if desired.
12. Serve with the prepared dipping sauce on the side.
13. Enjoy your shrimp stuffed jalapeño poppers warm or at room temperature.
14. Clean up any leftover seeds or membranes to prevent accidental spiciness.

Notes:

• For less heat, remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapeños.
• Try using a toothpick to secure the bacon if it doesn’t stay wrapped.
• Pre-cook bacon slightly if you prefer ultra-crispy bacon.
• Experiment with different cheese blends for varied flavors.
• Make sure to pat shrimp dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
• Consider grilling the poppers for a smoky flavor.
• Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation.
• Chill the stuffed jalapeños before wrapping in bacon for easier handling.
• Pair with a light beer to complement the spicy and savory flavors.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Serve with a side of guacamole for a complete appetizer platter.
• Use a piping bag to neatly fill the jalapeños with the cheese mixture.