Description
Jerk Shrimp & Cheesy Grits is a vibrant, comforting dish that combines spicy, smoky Caribbean-seasoned shrimp with rich, buttery, and creamy cheesy grits. This flavorful marriage of bold spices and smooth textures makes it perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner, delivering a satisfying blend of heat and indulgence that’s easy to prepare and impresses with every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 lb medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp jerk seasoning blend (including allspice, thyme, chili peppers)
- 1 tsp oil (for sautéing shrimp)
- Juice of 1 lime or lemon
- Fresh herbs (cilantro or parsley), chopped, for garnish
Cheesy Grits
- 1 cup stone-ground or quick-cooking grits
- 4 cups water or broth
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar or cheese blend
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Jerk Shrimp: Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp in the jerk seasoning until fully coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the spices deeply.
- Cook the Grits: In a saucepan, bring water or broth to a boil. Slowly stir in the grits, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring frequently, until thick and creamy — about 15-20 minutes for stone-ground or according to package instructions for quick-cooking.
- Add Cheese and Creaminess: Remove the grits from heat and whisk in butter, milk, and shredded cheese until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
- Sauté the Shrimp: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the marinated shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque.
- Assemble the Dish: Spoon the cheesy grits onto plates, top with the sizzling jerk shrimp, garnish with fresh herbs, and finish with a squeeze of lime or lemon juice for brightness.
Notes
- Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp for best texture and flavor absorption.
- Don’t overcook the grits; they should be creamy but thick enough to hold the shrimp.
- Adjust the amount of jerk seasoning to control the spice level.
- Choose a flavorful sharp cheddar for the best cheesy taste.
- Marinate shrimp for at least 15 minutes and up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Caribbean / Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 180 mg