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A platter of baked jalapeño shrimp poppers arranged on a serving dish.

Classic Baked Jalapeño Shrimp Poppers

These classic baked jalapeño shrimp poppers are a delightful appetizer, combining spicy jalapeños with a creamy cheese filling and succulent shrimp, all baked to golden perfection.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb Large shrimp peeled, deveined
  • 10-12 Fresh jalapeños whole
  • 4 oz Cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup Shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 2 tsp Garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp Lime juice
  • ½ tsp Paprika (smoked)
  • ¼ tsp Salt
  • ¼ tsp Black pepper
Topping
  • ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tbsp Fresh cilantro, chopped optional

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowls

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Halve the jalapeños lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and membranes to reduce heat.
  3. In a bowl, combine cream cheese, Monterey Jack, minced garlic, lime juice, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
Assembly and Baking
  1. Carefully fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture and press a shrimp firmly into the filling, tail pointing upwards.
  2. In a separate small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over each filled jalapeño, pressing gently.
  3. Arrange the poppers on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, and the topping is golden brown.
  4. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving, if desired.

Notes

For extra heat, leave some jalapeño seeds and membranes. Ensure shrimp are fully thawed if using frozen. Serve immediately for best results.