Smoked BBQ Shrimp Jalapeno Poppers Recipe

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Jalapenos:
   Start by cutting the jalapenos in half lengthwise and using a small spoon to carefully remove the seeds and membranes. If you want a milder popper, be sure to remove all the seeds and white ribs as they contain most of the heat.
2. Season the Shrimp:
   Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3. Preheat the Smoker:
   Heat your smoker to 225°F (110°C). If you don’t have a smoker, you can use your grill with indirect heat and some wood chips for added smokiness.
4. Stuff the Jalapenos:
   In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well blended. Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, filling them generously.
5. Top with Shrimp and Wrap in Bacon:
   Place one shrimp on top of the cheese-stuffed jalapeno. Then, wrap each stuffed jalapeno with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick to keep everything in place.
6. Brush with BBQ Sauce:
   Lightly brush each bacon-wrapped jalapeno with BBQ sauce, ensuring an even coating.
7. Smoke the Poppers:
   Place the jalapeno poppers directly on the grill grates or in a smoker basket. Let them smoke for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp is cooked through. If you prefer a quicker cook, you can increase the heat to 300°F and smoke them for about 45 minutes.
8. Final Glaze:
   During the last 10 minutes of smoking, brush the poppers with an additional layer of BBQ sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
9. Serve:
   Remove the poppers from the smoker and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Tips:

• For a spicier kick, leave some of the seeds in the jalapenos when you’re prepping them.
• If you don’t have a smoker, you can bake these poppers in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, then broil for a few minutes to crisp up the bacon.
• For a vegetarian option, you can skip the shrimp and use a combination of veggies and cheese.

Conclusion:
These Smoked BBQ Shrimp Jalapeno Poppers are a flavor-packed appetizer that’s sure to steal the spotlight at your next barbecue or game day gathering. The smoky bacon, creamy cheese, and spicy jalapeno blend together to create a memorable and irresistible dish. Whether you’re enjoying them on your own or sharing with friends, these poppers deliver a savory punch that will leave everyone craving more.