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Three golden-baked Shrimp Stuffed Poblano Peppers topped with fresh cilantro on a white plate.
Reda

Shrimp Stuffed Poblano Peppers

Smoky roasted poblanos filled with spiced shrimp and melty cheese for a weeknight dinner that feels like a fiesta.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired, Tex-Mex
Calories: 285

Ingredients
  

For the Peppers
  • 4 large poblano peppers about 6 oz each
  • 1 tbsp olive oil plus more for drizzling
For the Shrimp Filling
  • 12 oz raw shrimp peeled, deveined, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1/2 medium yellow onion finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp dried oregano Mexican oregano if available
  • 1 tbsp lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 2 oz cotija cheese crumbled, divided
  • 4 oz monterey jack cheese shredded
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped, plus more for garnish

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Large skillet
  • Small Bowl

Method
 

Prep the Peppers
  1. Place poblanos directly over a gas flame or under a broiler set to high, turning occasionally, until blackened all over, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer to a bowl, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and let steam for 10 minutes. Peel off most of the charred skin (some remaining is fine), then cut a slit down one side and carefully remove the seeds and membranes while keeping the pepper intact.
Make the Filling
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened and just starting to brown at the edges, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano; cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  2. Add chopped shrimp to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until just pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat immediately to prevent overcooking. Stir in lime juice, half the cotija cheese, and cilantro. Taste and season with salt if needed.
Assemble and Bake
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil. Divide the shrimp filling among the four poblanos, packing it in gently but not overstuffed. Arrange on the baking sheet, slit side up. Top with shredded Monterey Jack and remaining cotija.
  2. Bake until the cheese is melted and starting to brown in spots, about 12-15 minutes. Switch to broil for the last 2 minutes if you want more color on top. Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra cilantro and serve with lime wedges if desired.

Notes

For milder heat, soak the roasted and peeled poblanos in cold water for 5 minutes before stuffing. Make ahead: roast and peel peppers up to 2 days ahead; store covered in the refrigerator. The filling can also be made a few hours ahead and reheated gently before stuffing. Serve with Mexican rice and black beans for a complete meal, or keep it light with just a simple green salad.