Prepare the Jalapeños: Cut the stems from the jalapeños. Use a small spoon or paring knife to remove the seeds and white ribs. Rinse the peppers under cold water, then pat them completely dry inside and out. Removing the seeds and ribs also reduces the heat of the peppers.
Season the Shrimp: Peel and devein the shrimp while keeping the tails attached. Pat them dry with paper towels. Place the shrimp in a bowl and add the black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, and Cajun seasoning. Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated.
Stuff the Jalapeños: Spread softened cream cheese inside each jalapeño. Place one seasoned shrimp inside each pepper with the tail facing outward. Press the shrimp gently into the cream cheese so it sits securely inside the pepper. Repeat with all 8 jalapeños.
Prepare the Coating: Pour the buttermilk into a shallow bowl and add the egg. Beat until smooth. In another shallow dish, combine the fish fry, black pepper, Cajun seasoning, Old Bay seasoning, and Creole seasoning. Dip each stuffed jalapeño into the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess liquid to drip away. Roll it in the seasoned fish fry and press gently so the coating adheres well.
Fry the Range Rattlers: Heat enough vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to safely cover the stuffed jalapeños. Bring the oil to 375°F. Fry the peppers in small batches for approximately 2 to 3 minutes, until the coating is golden brown and crisp. Avoid overcrowding the pot because this can lower the oil temperature and make the coating less crisp. Remove the cooked peppers with tongs or a slotted utensil. Place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate and allow them to rest briefly before serving.
Make the Dipping Sauce: Combine the mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, hot sauce, and Cajun seasoning in a small bowl. Stir until smooth. The sauce can be served immediately or chilled for 15 to 20 minutes so the seasonings have time to blend.
Prepare the Cajun Fries: Combine the onion powder, garlic powder, Cajun seasoning, seasoned salt, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook the fries in the oven or air fryer according to the package directions. While they are still hot, place them in a large bowl and toss with the seasoning mixture.
Serve: Arrange the crispy Saltgrass Range Rattlers with the hot Cajun fries. Serve immediately with the homemade dipping sauce. Ranch dressing can also be served alongside the homemade sauce.
