If you’re craving a dish that brings the bold flavors of the bayou right to your plate, the Loaded Cajun Seafood Stuffed Potatoes Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. These fluffy baked potatoes are generously filled with a creamy, spicy mix of shrimp, crab, and perfectly melted cheddar cheese, delivering a meal that’s comforting, hearty, and loaded with that unmistakable Cajun kick. Whether it’s a family dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe turns humble potatoes into a decadent seafood sensation that’s sure to wow everyone at the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients together for this Loaded Cajun Seafood Stuffed Potatoes Recipe is a breeze because each item plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture. From the creamy dairy to the vibrant seafood and spices, these simple components come together beautifully in every bite.
- 4 large russet potatoes: These starchy potatoes bake up fluffy and sturdy, perfect for stuffing.
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped: Adds tender, sweet seafood flavor and a satisfying bite.
- 1 cup cooked crab meat or seafood blend, chopped: Brings that rich, briny taste of the sea essential for Cajun flair.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds luxurious creaminess and a rich mouthfeel.
- 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream: Ensures your potato filling stays smooth and velvety.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Gives a tangy depth and creamy texture that balances the spices.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Sharp and melty, this cheese adds gooey indulgence and color.
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning: Packs that signature smoky heat and complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances savory notes with a subtle garlic punch.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Deepens the spice palette with a mild warmth and rich color.
- Salt, to taste: Balances and brightens all the flavors perfectly.
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Adds a hint of heat and freshness.
- Sliced green onions or chopped parsley, optional: Fresh garnishes that add color and a pop of herbaceous brightness.
How to Make Loaded Cajun Seafood Stuffed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Potatoes
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F. Give your russet potatoes a good wash to remove any dirt, then prick each one several times with a fork so steam can escape while baking. Pop them directly onto the oven rack and bake for about 45 to 60 minutes until they’re fork-tender and perfectly fluffy inside. Allow them to cool just enough to handle — this method ensures a crisp skin encasing that soft, pillowy potato.
Step 2: Mix the Seafood Filling
While the potatoes bake, toss the chopped shrimp and crab meat together with the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in the sour cream and about a third of the shredded cheddar cheese until the mixture looks creamy and well blended. This seafood filling is the heart of the recipe, offering a zesty, rich contrast to the mild potatoes.
Step 3: Scoop and Mash the Potato Flesh
Once your potatoes have cooled slightly, cut each one lengthwise and carefully scoop out most of the flesh into a large bowl, leaving about a quarter of an inch thick shell to hold the filling. Add the butter and milk or cream to the potato flesh, then mash everything together until silky smooth. Gently fold the seafood mixture and half of the remaining cheese into the mashed potatoes – this keeps the texture luscious and packed with flavor.
Step 4: Stuff the Potato Shells
Now for the fun part! Spoon the creamy seafood-potato blend back into each potato shell generously, making sure every bite will be loaded with that savory filling. Top them off with the rest of the shredded cheddar cheese for that irresistible golden melt on top.
Step 5: Final Bake to Melt and Brown
Lower the oven temperature to 375°F, place your stuffed potatoes on a baking sheet, and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. This step melts the cheese perfectly and gives those tops a beautiful golden-brown finish that screams “ready to eat.”
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the potatoes from the oven and sprinkle sliced green onions or chopped parsley over them to add a fresh, vibrant touch. Serve these beauties immediately while they’re hot and melty for the ultimate indulgence.
How to Serve Loaded Cajun Seafood Stuffed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
While the basic green onions or parsley elevate the dish with an herbaceous pop, you can also experiment with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce for an extra zing. The contrast of fresh herbs against the rich cheesy seafood mixture makes every bite feel balanced and fresh.
Side Dishes
These loaded potatoes shine as a main course, but pairing them with a light side salad dressed in a citrus vinaigrette or crisp steamed green beans creates a well-rounded meal. A cold coleslaw or even some garlicky sautéed spinach also complements the Cajun heat and creamy textures beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, turn these stuffed potatoes into an impressive appetizer by cutting them into halves or wedges once baked. Alternatively, serve them family-style on a large platter alongside a bowl of extra Cajun seasoning or spicy remoulade dipping sauce. The rustic presentation will make the meal feel warm and welcoming.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of this Loaded Cajun Seafood Stuffed Potatoes Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, so you can enjoy that Cajun goodness even after the first meal.
Freezing
Because of the creamy seafood filling, freezing is possible but best done with caution. Wrap each stuffed potato tightly in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This helps the cheese to melt back to that perfect gooey state and revives the crispy potato skin. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use other types of seafood in this Loaded Cajun Seafood Stuffed Potatoes Recipe?
Absolutely! While shrimp and crab are traditional favorites, you can swap in cooked crawfish, scallops, or even a pre-mixed seafood blend to get your preferred taste and texture. Just be sure the seafood is cooked beforehand to avoid overcooking during baking.
Is there a way to make this recipe less spicy?
Definitely! Reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or substitute it with a milder seasoning blend. You can also omit the paprika or garlic powder if sensitivity to spices is a concern. The dish will still be flavorful and creamy.
Can these potatoes be prepared ahead of time for a party or gathering?
Yes! You can prepare the entire filling and bake the potatoes in advance, then assemble and bake the stuffed potatoes right before serving. This saves time and lets you enjoy your guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
What type of cheese works best if I want to switch from cheddar?
Sharp cheddar is classic for its flavor and melt, but Monterey Jack, smoked Gouda, or even pepper jack cheese can add wonderful variations. Choose cheeses that melt well and complement the Cajun seasoning.
Are russet potatoes necessary, or can I use other types?
Russet potatoes are ideal due to their fluffy interior and sturdy skin, which holds up well to stuffing. Yukon Golds can work too but expect a creamier, denser filling. Avoid waxy potatoes as they don’t mash as smoothly.
Final Thoughts
There is just something genuinely magical about biting into a warm, loaded potato brimming with spicy, creamy seafood goodness. This Loaded Cajun Seafood Stuffed Potatoes Recipe offers a perfect blend of comfort food with a splash of bold Cajun flavor that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe arsenal. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself (and your loved ones) to a dish that’s bursting with personality and pure deliciousness.
Print
Loaded Cajun Seafood Stuffed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun
Description
These Loaded Cajun Seafood Stuffed Potatoes are a delicious and comforting dish combining tender baked russet potatoes with a creamy, flavorful seafood stuffing seasoned with Cajun spices and topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect as a hearty main course or impressive side for any seafood lover.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 large russet potatoes
Seafood Mixture
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup cooked crab meat or seafood blend, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Mash Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
Garnish (optional)
- Sliced green onions or chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Potatoes: Preheat oven to 400°F. Wash potatoes thoroughly and pierce each several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Bake Potatoes: Place potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 45 to 60 minutes until they are fork-tender. Remove and set aside to cool slightly.
- Make Seafood Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine chopped shrimp, crab meat, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in sour cream and 1/3 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until well incorporated.
- Scoop Potato Flesh: Slice each baked potato lengthwise. Carefully scoop out most of the flesh into a large bowl, leaving a 1/4-inch thick shell to hold the filling.
- Mash Potato Flesh: Add butter and milk or heavy cream to the potato flesh, then mash until smooth. Gently fold in the prepared seafood mixture and half of the remaining shredded cheese.
- Stuff Potatoes: Generously fill each potato shell with the seafood and potato mixture. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of each stuffed potato.
- Bake Stuffed Potatoes: Reduce oven temperature to 375°F. Arrange the stuffed potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with sliced green onions or chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately while hot for best flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute crab meat with any seafood blend or even canned crab for convenience.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your preferred spice level.
- For a richer texture, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- These potatoes can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving to save time.
- Leftover stuffed potatoes can be refrigerated and gently reheated in the oven.
