Description
Experience the bold flavors of the Caribbean fused with Southern comfort in this irresistible Jerk Shrimp & Cheesy Grits recipe. Succulent shrimp marinated in spicy jerk seasoning sit atop creamy, sharp cheddar-infused grits, creating a dish that’s both hearty and full of vibrant, smoky taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp Marinade
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Cheesy Grits
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup quick-cooking grits
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish & Serving
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture. Place shrimp in a bowl and add jerk seasoning, olive oil, and lime juice. Toss until all shrimp are evenly coated. Cover and let it marinate for 15 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- Prepare the Grits: In a medium saucepan, combine chicken broth and whole milk, bring to a boil over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the quick-cooking grits to prevent lumps. Reduce heat to low and cook while stirring frequently for 5 to 6 minutes until thickened and creamy.
- Enhance the Grits: Stir in unsalted butter, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until butter and cheese are fully melted and incorporated, then keep warm on low heat.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated shrimp in a single layer to the hot skillet. Cook shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque, indicating they are fully cooked.
- Assemble and Serve: Spoon a generous portion of cheesy grits into serving bowls. Top with the cooked jerk shrimp. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve lime wedges on the side to squeeze over the top for added tang.
Notes
- Adjust the heat level by varying the amount of jerk seasoning to suit your taste.
- For creamier grits, add a splash more milk or an extra pat of butter when finishing the grits.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with sautéed greens like kale or collard greens, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 960 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 29 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 31 g
- Cholesterol: 215 mg
