31 Tasty Cajun Appetizers: One Can Never Be Enough

Take a quick glance at some of the top Cajun appetizers; their calories, and the time taken to prepare each.

Tasty Cajun Appetizers: Quick Table

Recipes	Preparation Time	Calories Per Serving
Cajun Crab Cakes	40 minutes	150
Classic Gumbo	2 hours	382
Cajun Shrimp And Avocado Toast	40 minutes	515
Cajun Deviled Eggs	35 minutes	150
Cajun Pecans	33 minutes	216
Cajun Chickpeas	15 minutes	120
Boudin Balls	1 hour 15 minutes	199
Cajun Crab -Stuffed Jalapenos	35 minutes	210
Cajun Chicken Tenders	45 minutes	280
Cajun Shrimp Sweet Potato Bites	35 minutes	240
Cajun Chicken Flatbread	30 minutes	311
French Quarter Praline Cheese Ball	20 minutes	170
Cajun Chicken Butter Wings	20 minutes	320
Cornmeal- Fried Okra With Cajun Spices	45 minutes	235
Cajun Hush Puppies	36 minutes	348
Cajun Etouffee Nachos	25 minutes	305
Cajun Chicken Quesadilla	20 minutes	790
Creamy Cajun Chicken Meatballs	45 minutes	523
Cajun Shrimp and Fish Tacos	35 minutes	275
Cajun Corn on Cob	40 minutes	195
Cajun Spiced Stuffed Mushrooms	33 minutes	429
Bacon Wrapped Scallops With Cajun Cream Sauce	40 minutes	390
Fried Cajun Popcorn Tofu	50 minutes	331
Corn Wonton Cups	30 minutes	230
Deep Fried Onions Balls with Cajun Ranch Sauce	30 minutes	243
Caprese Bruschetta with Whipped Goat Cheese	30 minutes	210
Shrimp Avocado Wonton Cup Appetizer	27 minutes	320
Avocado Cucumber Shrimp	20 minutes	200
Cajun Shrimp Toast	25 minutes	220
Baked Blooming Onion	35 minutes	410

There are many types of appetizers around the world. The tastes also vary; some are soft and mushy, crunchy, salty, or sweet. However, few are usually ever spicy and savory at the same time.

Heavily focusing on the meat part of the dish, Cajun appetizers give a kick like no other. With spice adding a little zing to the finger-licking goodness, there are different types of Cajun appetizers to choose from. 

The good thing about Cajun appetizers is they are easy to make and take the least time, and above all, they are ridiculously delicious.

Combining all the flavors of meats and vegetables with a hint of seafood in each makes it easy to get sentimental with the served pieces. Instead of dreaming of where to have the appetizers, why not make them at home?

Here are 31 Cajun recipes to make for your family, friends, or even the office.

1. Cajun Crab Cakes

Cajun crab cakes are the epitome of flavorful appetizers. Colorful and compact, its layering makes it look like a baked sandwich.

However, to make it all more enticing to your guests for game night, topping off with some poached eggs and some Cajun sauce will work well.

To make the Cajun appetizer work as a dish, adding some tomato, lettuce, tartar sauce, and most importantly, a bun will make it a simple sandwich. But be ready to have sweet drink accompaniment to mellow down the spiciness.

Calories Per Serving: 150 

Preparation Time: 40 Minutes 

2. Classic Gumbo

Classic gumbo is the most common type of Cajun appetizer. The simple recipe is perfect when craving some shrimp and sausages as it works well as comfort food.

The highlight of this dish is the chicken that makes for a richly flavored broth. The dish is nutritious, and the Cajun spices are super flavorful.

Calories Per Serving: 382 

Preparation Time: 2 Hours 

3. Cajun Shrimp And Avocado Toast

It’s hardly ever impossible to go wrong with avocado toast. Alone it makes for a perfect starter. However, Cajun shrimp is where the flavors explode as the ingredients used to make the dish are guaranteed to leave a spicy Cajun dish that will water your taste buds.

The best part is it has cilantro, lime juice for a tangy taste, roasted tomatillo for a savory taste, and melted Cotija cheese for that cheesy effect.

Calories Per Serving: 515 

Preparation Time: 40 Minutes

4. Deviled Eggs

Cajun spiced deviled egg is an appetizer that is all about Cajun spice overload. Deviled eggs on their own with some spicing are a starter that many guests will appreciate due to the protein goodness.

Cajun spices used in the devilling process make the eggs extra delicious. With a little browning for an added effect, it’s easy to eat more than one in one sitting without noticing.

However, you might want to follow instructions on ingredients to get the perfect taste.

Calories Per Serving: 150 

Preparation Time: 35 Minutes

5. Cajun Pecans

Nuts are mess free and eaten to serve to guests as starters without having to worry about acceptance. Nuts are so versatile that some can be fine when eaten raw.

Pelicans need a little extra loving, and it’s important to roast them firsthand to get the flavors out.

With a little bit of southern-style Cajun making, it’s the perfect comfort food. Tasting like butter, its crispness and kick off the Cajun will make it a direct hit with many people.

Calories Per Serving: 216 

Preparation Time: 33 Minutes 

6. Cajun Chickpeas

Chicken peas are only as good as the attention they are given. However, with a little bit of creativity, it goes a long way. While roasting, importance is placed on the Cajun spices as it is perfect, especially if your crowd is made of spicy flavor lovers.

Calories Per Serving: 120  

Preparation Time: 15 Minutes 

7. Boudin Balls

Trying something different is always appreciated, and Boudin balls are great at providing smoky, spicy flavor. The devil’s in the detailing as when making the sizes, sticking to small sizes will make it easy to pop into the mouth while watching a game.

It’s not surprising that it can be used as one of the 31 Cajun appetizers to try and still be used as a party snack due to how tasty and filling it is.

Calories Per Serving: 199

Preparation Time: 1 Hour 15 Minutes 

8. Cajun Crab-Stuffed Jalapeños

Jalapeños are a classic, and for a good reason. It works with all foods, giving a dish a little bit of color. As an appetizer, it’s perfect for those looking for coziness of soft mushy food with crunchy tops.

Stuffed with crab meat, bacon, and cheddar cheese, cream cheese tops it off with the Cajun spices sitting pretty.

Calories Per Serving: 210 

Preparation Time: 35 Minutes 

9. Cajun Chicken Tenders

Chicken tenders are the simplest kind of appetizers to make. The finger foods are versatile and super tasty. Doing something different and creating Cajun chicken tenders is something worth trying.

Measuring the ingredients just right will make for a memorable starter for the family.

Calories Per Serving: 280  

Preparation Time: 45 Minutes

10. Cajun Shrimp Sweet Potato Bites

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It’s time to go a notch higher and try an appetizer that looks like something a 5-star hotel serves as a meal. The Cajun shrimp sweet potato bites have everything a good appetizer should have.

It is crunchy, creamy, crispy, and spicy. To top it off, some guacamole will bring pleasure to any palate.

Calories Per Serving: 240

Preparation Time: 35 Minutes 

RELATED: What To Eat With Red Beans And Rice (12 Best Cajun Side Dishes)

11. Cajun Chicken Flatbread

Very few appetizers can compete with chicken flatbread. The only way to improve the recipe is to add something unique like the Cajun factor. 

With a garlic-infused Cajun sauce as the toppings, Cajun chicken flatbread becomes the perfect appetizer for a party.

Calories Per Serving: 311

Preparation Time: 30 Minutes

12. French Quarter Praline Cheese Ball

These balls are a creation that is sure to satisfy savory and sweet palates. The best part is that it’s not something that will take time; a few minutes is all that is needed.

The final product is flavorful, tasty cheese balls made of Cajun seasoning, garlic, butter, Dijon mustard, and cream cheese.

Calories Per Serving: 170 

Preparation Time: 20 Minutes 

13. Cajun Chicken Butter Wings

Cajun Chicken Butter Wings recipe is another Cajun appetizer known for having the perfect combination since it’s crispy, creamy, and spicy. With a significant amount of Cajun spices used in the dish, expect to have a hot dish served.

However, the only thing that makes it redeemable is the amount of butter used, as every guest will surely appreciate the creamy flavors.

Calories Per Serving: 320 

Preparation Time: 20 Minutes 

14. Fried Okra 

Okra is savory, crunchy, and usually the perfect side dish for many meals. Cornmeal fried Okra with Cajun spices makes for finger food that everyone will want to grab.

Getting the blend of Cajun spices and cornmeal correctly is a sure way to make the spices stick to the okra. 

When pan frying the Okra, keep an eye on the heat to ensure the Okra is cooked on all sides and guaranteed a spicy crunchy kick.

Calories Per Serving: 235  

Preparation Time: 45 Minutes

15. Cajun Hush Puppies

Cajun Hush Puppies are a perfect start and an even better side dish for any occasion. The seasoning will make the hush puppies a hit or a miss.

However, cooking at the perfect temperature will also make it impossible to resist the crispy golden couth watering bites. Pairing with dips and spreads of different kinds is encouraged.

Calories Per Serving: 348 

Preparation Time: 36 Minutes

16. Cajun Étouffée Nachos

Nachos are those snacks that are a favorite for many without a lot of side additions. However, when looking for something to have guests coming back for more, Cajun Étouffée nachos are perfect.

With additional ingredients such as sausage and crawfish adding different flavors to the dish, the Cajun spices and melted cheese makes for an inviting appetizer that will undoubtedly be a hit with many.

Calories Per Serving: 305 

Preparation Time: 25 Minutes

17. Cajun Chicken Quesadilla

The love of quesadillas is obvious when it comes to rating appetizers. Easy to make, it takes only a few minutes to make, and you are guaranteed to have it done before guests get settled.

Filling and tasty, there is usually no need to get new ingredients as the more different leftovers are used, the fancier it becomes. Make it a little extra and add chicken, salad, and salsa to get a colorful, tasty plate.

Calories Per Serving: 790 

Preparation Time: 20 Minutes

18. Creamy Cajun Chicken Meatballs

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Creamy Cajun chicken meatballs are a blend of flavors to bring out a hearty meal. By starting with shredded chicken and other assorted meats, the different flavors coming together make it easy to appreciate the meat.

However, the seasoning with a lot of mushrooms, pepper, garlic, and onions is packed with flavor and is guaranteed to water your taste buds. The meatballs in the dish can be considered a cozy dream on a fork.

Calories Per Serving: 523 

Preparation Time: 45 Minutes

19. Fish Tacos

There are few ways fish can be eaten but making tacos is undoubtedly the most refreshing way. Starting with one of the main ingredients in Cajun cuisine, shrimp and mixing it with fish make for a perfect seaside blend.

What makes the tacos stand out is leading the tacos with a lot of fresh ingredients to get a kick on the flavor and be guaranteed delicious appetizers.

Calories Per Serving: 275 

Preparation Time: 35 Minutes

20. Cajun Corn On Cob

To make this appetizer, it’s important to practice your roasting skills to make sure the corn on the cob is a perfect golden brown color without overcooking.  

With salt and pepper, the usual go-to spices used on the corn, add flavor by using Cajun spices this time. Drizzling the spices on the cob makes it easy to enjoy whole corn without noticing.

However, if you want the spices to penetrate deep, use lime to apply the spices and enjoy even flavoring all around.

Calories Per Serving: 195 

Preparation Time: 40 Minutes

21. Cajun Spiced Stuffed Mushrooms

Once you try the Cajun spiced stuffed mushroom, it will be hard to cook mushrooms a different way ever again. Stuffing the mushrooms with creamy Cajun spice makes it the perfect mouthful appetizer for guests to enjoy.

The best part is that the recipe is customizable, and you can add as many other ingredients as possible. However, pepper and garlic should take priority as they give the perfect kick in every bite.

Calories Per Serving: 429 

Preparation Time: 33 Minutes 

22. Scallops 

There is nothing better than a smoky bacon scallop. Crispy and savory, the rucking away of the scallop using the bacon makes for a protected, well-cooled layer that brings out its explosive flavor. 

With the bacon crispy and crunchy, the Cajun sauce accompaniment adds creamy sauce to every bite taken. Having two of three such appetizing sticks of bacon-wrapped scallops is a sure way of keeping everyone occupied and waiting on the next meal.

Calories Per Serving: 390

Preparation Time: 40 Minutes

23. Fried Cajun Popcorn Tofu

Normally the last thing guests want is sticky appetizers. However, fried popcorn tofu is the exception as it’s sweet, hot, and spicy. With the fried tofu recipe, every crunch is welcomed.

Simple in every sense, the recipe is easy to follow but is packed with a much due to all its spices. The best part is that it can still be crispy and perfect without an additional sauce.

Calories Per Serving: 331 

Preparation Time: 50 Minutes

24. Cheesy Sweet Corn 

A blend of sweet and spicy flavors can be satisfied by trying these Cajun wonton cups. Presentation in this recipe makes half the meal inviting.

With the fillings topped up with cheese, the creamy, cheesy taste will surely tickle your taste buds. With each wonton cup essentially compact, the Cajun appetizer is essentially mess-free.

Calories Per Serving: 230  

Preparation Time: 30 Minutes

25. Deep Fried Onion Balls With Cajun Ranch Sauce

The process of making the flour coat the onion balls is the easy part. The onion balls are fried with the right spices and herbs to make for crispy, crunchy appetizers. Shifting the focus to making the Cajun ranch sauce will make a difference in taste.

By starting from scratch, add Cajun spices to your liking. However, keep an eye on the spice meter to ensure it does not overpower your senses, and enjoy every bite.

Calories Per Serving: 243

Preparation Time: 30 Minutes 

26. Big Game Sausage Balls

Making big game sausage balls is similar to making onion balls, only this time it’s all about baking instead of frying. The secret ingredient in this regard is the cheddar cheese, as a lot is used.

With both sweet and spicy sausage used in the recipe, the cheddar cheese is added to the mix before finally adding to self-raising flour.

In about 15 minutes, guests will enjoy a creamy cut of the sausage balls, and you can be guaranteed to be asked about the recipe.

Calories Per Serving: 197 

Preparation Time: 30 Minutes 

27. Caprese Bruschetta With Whipped Goat Cheese

There is no other way than to admit that the Caprese Bruschetta with Whipped Goat Cheese is the embodiment of a perfect Cajun appetizer.

First, the roasted bread is crunchy, and with a heavy serving of creamy, tangy goat cheese, the contrast is sure to dance on your tongue.

Adding roasted tomatoes and fresh ingredients like basic and sweet balsamic will make it an out-of-this-world food experience for guests.

Calories Per Serving: 210

Preparation Time: 30 Minutes 

28. Shrimp Avocado Wonton Cup Appetizer Recipe

The Shrimp Avocado Guacamole Wonton Cup Appetizer recipe is what can only be termed the perfect summer recipe. In fact, baking the wonton cakes early will make it possible to work on the guacamole on-site in a barbeque to serve guests as they arrive.

However, be keen on presentation as although it’s extremely tasty, it needs to be enjoyed fast enough before the guacamole starts misbehaving.

Calories Per Serving: 320  

Preparation Time: 27 Minutes

29. Avocado Cucumber Shrimp Appetizers  

Cucumbers are some of the fresh ingredients that need to be enjoyed raw to get the full runch flavor. The shrimp appetizers add the seafood effect that is enjoyed over creamy avocado.

With every bite, family and friends are guaranteed a delicious mouthful. The best part is that, unlike many other appetizer recipes, the avocado cucumber shrimp Cajun appetizer only has less than 50 calories in every presentation bite.

Calories Per Serving: 200 

Preparation Time: 20 Minutes

30. Cajun Shrimp Toast

Appetizers are some of the only times to enjoy shrimp toast full of cheese. It is given that the garlic shrimp roast bites have become a favorite of many.

By having the shrimp mixture premade, the baked toasted bread blanketed with flavor-filled seafood accompaniments makes a perfect combination. Topping with a different kind of cheese makes it a game changer.

Calories Per Serving: 220  

Preparation Time:  25 Minutes

RELATED: 27 Types Of Cajun Recipies

31. Baked Blooming Onion

The presentation of the blooming onion appetizer is nothing short of fantastic. Better yet is that the simple treat is a sure way to dazzle your taste buds.

With onion as the base ingredient, the seasoning needs to be done just right to get the edges crisp with the center soft and sweet.  

When coating the onion with Cajun seasoning, go all in and ensure every part is heavily coated, or else the onion will end up shriveled. The best part is that since it is baked, it’s the best  way to enjoy it without worrying about the number of calories in the appetizer.

Calories Per Serving: 410 

Preparation Time: 35 Minutes

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The Three Main Ingredients In Cajun Cooking?

There are three main ingredients found in almost all Cajun dishes: Shrimp, Crawfish, and Andouille, often referred to as the trinity of Cajun.

Over the years, the recipes have evolved, including other ingredients, but overall, one of the main ingredients has to be used in every recipe. 

What Does Cajun Food Taste Like?

The secret to Cajun foods is in the seasoning. Cajun dishes, for this reason, are known to be spicy and hot.

However, with numerous ingredients used, the ultimate flavors are usually uniquely spicy, and it’s hard to pinpoint one specific kind of ingredient in the dish.

The dish’s spiciness can vary, but pepper, cayenne, and salt are the go-to spices for a little bit of hotness. 

What Is The Difference Between Cajun And Creole?

There is very little difference in the dishes; in some cases, the names used are interchangeable. However, Cajun dishes usually tend to be spicier than Creole.

Creoles also tend to use a lot of tomatoes or have recipes that use tomato-based sauces that mellow down the spices’ spiciness.

Do You Take Cajun Appetizers Cold Or Hot?

Appetizers are often served cold. However, Cajun dishes are diverse and sometimes can be made into a sauce. In this case, if the dish is an accompaniment, it’s safe to assume that the main appetizer dish should be warm or hot for the perfect contrast.