Cheesy Cajun Shrimp Bruschetta (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Base

01 - 1 small French baguette, cut in 1/2 inch thick slices
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil

→ For the Shrimp Topping

03 - 1 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined and minced
04 - ½ small onion, finely chopped
05 - 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
06 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
07 - ¼-½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
08 - ¼ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
09 - 4 ounces cream cheese, cut in small cubes
10 - ¼ cup shaved Parmesan cheese
11 - ¼ cup shaved Fontina cheese
12 - Kosher salt, to taste

→ For Garnish

13 - ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
14 - 1 green onion, thinly sliced

# Instructions:

01 - Set your broiler to low. Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place under the broiler for 3-5 minutes until one side is lightly browned. Flip each slice over and broil the other side until golden. Keep an eye on them as broilers can brown bread quickly.
02 - Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced shrimp, chopped onion, and celery. Cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking and to prevent the shrimp from overcooking.
03 - Toss in the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, and black pepper. Continue cooking for 1 more minute, stirring constantly. The garlic should become fragrant but not burn.
04 - Reduce heat to very low. Add the cubed cream cheese, shaved Parmesan, and Fontina to the skillet. Stir gently until all the cheese melts and combines with the shrimp mixture, creating a creamy sauce. Season with kosher salt and additional black pepper to taste.
05 - Preheat your oven to 400°F. Spread an even amount of the shrimp and cheese mixture onto each toasted baguette slice. Place them back on the baking sheet, topping side up.
06 - Sprinkle each toast with a light dusting of crushed red pepper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the tops are lightly browned and bubbly.
07 - Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with sliced green onions. Serve while hot and enjoy the creamy, flavorful shrimp toasts at their best.

# Notes:

01 - These Baked Shrimp Toasts combine the perfect balance of crispy bread with creamy, flavorful shrimp topping and just a hint of Cajun spice for an unforgettable appetizer.
02 - Wild-caught shrimp will give the best flavor, but any high-quality shrimp will work well in this recipe.
03 - This recipe moves quickly once you start cooking, so have all ingredients measured, chopped, and ready before you begin for the smoothest experience.
04 - If you can't find shaved Fontina or Parmesan cheese, you can easily make your own by using a vegetable peeler to shave thin pieces off a block of cheese.