I love making Spicy Cajun Shrimp Puff Pastry Squares when I want an appetizer that feels impressive but is surprisingly easy to prepare. The flaky, buttery puff pastry paired with bold Cajun-seasoned shrimp creates a perfect balance of crisp texture and spicy flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I appreciate how these puff pastry squares deliver big flavor in a small bite. The Cajun seasoning adds warmth and a gentle kick, while the shrimp stay tender and juicy. I also enjoy how versatile they are, since I can serve them as party appetizers, a light lunch, or even a fun dinner with a salad. They always look elegant and taste even better.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
1 tablespoon chopped green onions
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
I roll out the thawed puff pastry slightly and cut it into even squares. I place them on the prepared baking sheet and lightly score a smaller square inside each one without cutting all the way through. I brush the edges with beaten egg to help them turn golden.
In a bowl, I toss the shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika until evenly coated.
I cook the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat for about 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. I remove them from the heat and chop them into small pieces.
In a small bowl, I mix the softened cream cheese with shredded cheese and green onions. I spoon a small amount of this mixture into the center of each pastry square.
I top each square with chopped Cajun shrimp and bake for 15–18 minutes, until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
I let them cool slightly before serving.
Servings and Timing
I find this recipe makes about 9–12 squares, depending on how I cut the pastry.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: about 35 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add diced red bell pepper for extra color and sweetness. When I want more heat, I sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper over the shrimp. I also enjoy adding a drizzle of honey or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for contrast. For a lighter option, I reduce the cheese filling and add a layer of sautéed spinach.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. I reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes to help restore their crispiness. I avoid microwaving them, since it can make the pastry soft.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, I can use pre-cooked shrimp, but I reduce the cooking time and simply warm them with the seasoning.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
I can assemble them a few hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
What type of puff pastry works best?
I use store-bought frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed according to package instructions.
How spicy are these?
They have a mild to medium heat, but I can adjust the Cajun seasoning to suit my preference.
Can I freeze them?
I prefer freezing them unbaked and baking directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
I love how Spicy Cajun Shrimp Puff Pastry Squares combine flaky pastry with bold, savory shrimp in one delicious bite. They’re easy to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for entertaining or enjoying as a special treat at home. It’s a recipe I turn to whenever I want something crispy, spicy, and satisfying.
Print
Spicy Cajun Shrimp Puff Pastry Squares
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 9–12 squares
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
Spicy Cajun Shrimp Puff Pastry Squares are flaky, buttery appetizers topped with tender Cajun-seasoned shrimp and a creamy cheese filling for a bold and elegant bite.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry slightly and cut into even squares. Place on the prepared baking sheet and lightly score a smaller square inside each without cutting through. Brush the edges with beaten egg.
- Toss the shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika until evenly coated.
- Cook the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and chop into small pieces.
- In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese, shredded cheese, and green onions until combined.
- Spoon a small amount of the cheese mixture into the center of each pastry square.
- Top with chopped Cajun shrimp.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Add diced red bell pepper for extra color and sweetness.
- Sprinkle cayenne pepper for additional heat.
- Drizzle honey or squeeze fresh lemon juice before serving for contrast.
- Reduce cheese filling and add sautéed spinach for a lighter option.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes to restore crispness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
