Cajun Hot Pocket Sliders with Shrimp & Cheese

Cajun Hot Pocket Sliders with Shrimp & Cheese are bold, spicy, and perfectly gooey bites wrapped in golden, flaky dough. Packed with juicy Cajun-spiced shrimp and melty cheese, these mini handheld sliders are the ultimate party snack or fun dinner option. Each one is bursting with Southern-inspired flavor and easy to make in batches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these sliders combine the soul of a Cajun shrimp po’ boy with the convenience of a hot pocket. The seasoned shrimp bring the heat, the cheese adds creaminess, and the buttery baked dough makes everything feel indulgent. Whether I serve them at a game day spread or weeknight dinner, they’re always a hit—and they’re easy to prep ahead or freeze for later.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Small shrimp (peeled and deveined)

• Cajun seasoning

• Olive oil or butter

• Garlic (minced)

• Cream cheese or shredded mozzarella

• Shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese

• Crescent roll dough, biscuit dough, or pizza dough

• Egg (for egg wash)

• Fresh parsley or green onions (optional for garnish)

• Optional: hot sauce, Dijon mustard, or mayo for dipping

Directions

1. I season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning and sauté them in a hot skillet with oil or butter until just cooked, about 2–3 minutes per side. I remove from heat and let them cool slightly.

2. I roll out the dough and cut it into squares or circles large enough to fold over the filling.

3. I mix the shrimp with cream cheese and shredded cheddar or pepper jack for extra richness.

4. I place a spoonful of filling onto each dough piece, fold it over, and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.

5. I brush the tops with egg wash for a golden finish.

6. I bake the sliders at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.

7. I garnish with fresh parsley or green onions and serve warm, optionally with a dipping sauce like spicy mayo or remoulade.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8–10 sliders, depending on the dough and portion size. It takes 15–20 minutes to prep and another 15 minutes to bake, so I can have them ready in about 35 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add chopped cooked bacon or sautéed bell peppers for extra depth. For a creamier filling, I stir in a spoonful of sour cream or hot sauce. If I want a shortcut, I use pre-cooked frozen shrimp and thaw them quickly under cold water. And when I want to make a vegetarian version, I replace the shrimp with seasoned mushrooms or blackened tofu.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I pop them in the oven or air fryer at 350°F until warm and crisp—about 5–7 minutes. I avoid microwaving if possible to preserve the crispy texture. These also freeze well before or after baking.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, I just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and cooking to avoid extra moisture.

What kind of dough works best?

I like using crescent roll dough or biscuit dough for a flaky texture, but pizza dough gives a more chewy, bread-like bite.

How spicy are these?

That depends on the Cajun seasoning. I adjust the heat by adding or reducing hot sauce, or choosing a milder cheese.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, I assemble them up to a day in advance and keep them covered in the fridge until ready to bake. I can also freeze them unbaked.

What cheese is best?

I love using a combo of cream cheese and cheddar or pepper jack—it makes the filling rich, creamy, and full of flavor.

Conclusion

Cajun Hot Pocket Sliders with Shrimp & Cheese are the kind of fun, flavorful bites I love keeping in my rotation. They’re spicy, cheesy, crispy on the outside, and completely satisfying inside. Whether I serve them as a snack, appetizer, or full meal, they always deliver bold taste and comforting texture in every bite.