Name: Crispy Crawfish Stuffed Jalape: 7 Irresistible Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 37 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 12 large jalapeño peppers, fresh; 1 cup crawfish tails, chopped (fresh or thawed frozen); 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (extra sharp preferred); 2 tbsp mayonnaise; 1 green onion, finely chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning; Pinch of salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping); 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional); Extra parsley or chives, chopped (optional garnish); Thinly sliced green onions (optional garnish); Dash of hot sauce (optional garnish)

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Crispy Crawfish Stuffed Jalape is one of those appetizers that never fails to impress. These stuffed jalapeños feature a creamy Cajun crawfish filling that is both delicious and easy to prepare. The sharp cheddar cheese and crunchy breadcrumb topping create a flavor explosion that is perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or just looking for a crowd-pleasing snack, this recipe will surely become a favorite. Let’s dive into this delightful dish and learn how to make it!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Crawfish Stuffed Jalape

This recipe for Crispy Crawfish Stuffed Jalape is a must-try because it brings together the best of flavors and textures. Here are some reasons why you’ll love it:

Flavor-Packed: The creamy Cajun crawfish filling is bursting with flavor.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
Customizable: You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Party Favorite: Perfect for gatherings, these bites are sure to impress.
Low-Calorie Option: At just 90 calories per stuffed jalapeño, it fits into a low-calorie diet.
Versatile: Enjoy them as an appetizer or a fun snack.

Ingredients for Crispy Crawfish Stuffed Jalape

Gather these items:

12 large jalapeño peppers, fresh
1 cup crawfish tails, chopped (fresh or thawed frozen)
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (extra sharp preferred)
2 tbsp mayonnaise
1 green onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning
Pinch of salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Extra parsley or chives, chopped (optional garnish)
Thinly sliced green onions (optional garnish)
Dash of hot sauce (optional garnish)

How to Make Crispy Crawfish Stuffed Jalape Step-by-Step

Step 1: Wash and dry jalapeños. Slice each in half lengthwise, keeping the stem attached if possible. Using a small spoon, gently scoop out seeds and membranes. Wear gloves if sensitive to heat.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine chopped crawfish tails, softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup cheddar, mayonnaise, green onion, garlic, Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix until well-blended and creamy.
Step 3: Using a spoon or scoop, fill each jalapeño half generously with the crawfish mixture. Press down lightly so filling is even with the edges.
Step 4: In a small bowl, mix remaining cheddar, panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and parsley. Sprinkle mixture over each stuffed jalapeño, pressing lightly so it sticks.
Step 5: Place stuffed jalapeños cut-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet (or wire rack for extra crispness). Make sure they don’t touch.
Step 6: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until jalapeños are tender and topping is golden brown. Check at 15 minutes—if topping browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
Step 7: For extra crunch, broil the jalapeños on high for 1-2 minutes at the end. Watch closely.
Step 8: Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with extra parsley, chives, or a dash of hot sauce, if desired.
Step 9: Arrange on a platter or wooden board. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Crispy Crawfish Stuffed Jalape

Keep these in mind:

Wear gloves while handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation.
For a spicier kick, leave some seeds in the jalapeños.
Adjust the Cajun seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
Use a combination of cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
Ensure the filling is packed well to prevent it from spilling out during cooking.

Best Ways to Serve Crispy Crawfish Stuffed Jalape

Here are some serving ideas:

Pair these stuffed jalapeños with a cooling ranch or blue cheese dip.
Serve alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Include them as part of a larger appetizer platter with other finger foods.

How to Store and Reheat Crispy Crawfish Stuffed Jalape

To store, place the leftover stuffed jalapeños in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This will help retain their crunchiness. Meal prep made easy!

Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Crawfish Stuffed Jalape

What’s the secret to perfect Crispy Crawfish Stuffed Jalape?

The secret lies in ensuring the filling is creamy yet firm enough to hold its shape. Using fresh ingredients enhances the flavor of these Spicy Crawfish Jalapeño Poppers .

Can I make Crispy Crawfish Stuffed Jalape ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed jalapeños a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Crispy Crawfish Stuffed Jalape?

Avoid overcooking the jalapeños, as they can become mushy. Ensure you monitor baking time closely, especially if you’re trying out Baked Crawfish Stuffed Jalapeños .

Variations of Crispy Crawfish Stuffed Jalape You Can Try

Here are some variations to mix things up:

Try a Deep-Fried Crawfish Jalapeños version for an extra crispy texture.
Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for added spice.
Create a vegetarian version using cream cheese and bell peppers instead of crawfish.

Crispy Crawfish Stuffed Jalape: 7 Irresistible Bites

Author: basmer
Total Time: 37 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Calorie

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Description

These crispy crawfish-stuffed jalapeños feature a creamy Cajun crawfish filling, sharp cheddar, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Perfect as a crowd-pleasing appetizer for parties, game days, or family gatherings.

Instructions

Wash and dry jalapeños. Slice each in half lengthwise, keeping the stem attached if possible. Using a small spoon, gently scoop out seeds and membranes. Wear gloves if sensitive to heat.
In a medium bowl, combine chopped crawfish tails, softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup cheddar, mayonnaise, green onion, garlic, Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix until well-blended and creamy.
Using a spoon or scoop, fill each jalapeño half generously with crawfish mixture. Press down lightly so filling is even with the edges.
In a small bowl, mix remaining cheddar, panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and parsley. Sprinkle mixture over each stuffed jalapeño, pressing lightly so it sticks.
Place stuffed jalapeños cut-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet (or wire rack for extra crispness). Make sure they don’t touch.
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until jalapeños are tender and topping is golden brown. Check at 15 minutes—if topping browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
For extra crunch, broil the jalapeños on high for 1-2 minutes at the end. Watch closely.
Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with extra parsley, chives, or a dash of hot sauce, if desired.
Arrange on a platter or wooden board. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.