Print

Jerk Shrimp & Cheesy Grits with Gouda

Jerk Shrimp & Cheesy Grits with Gouda
Print Recipe

Jerk Shrimp & Cheesy Grits with Gouda is a Southern-inspired dish that combines spicy, smoky jerk-seasoned shrimp with creamy, cheesy stone-ground grits enriched with nutty Gouda cheese. This flavorful and comforting meal offers a perfect balance of bold Caribbean spices and smooth, rich textures, making it an ideal option for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Seasoning

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Grits Base

  • 4 cups water or broth (chicken or vegetable)
  • 1 cup stone-ground grits
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded Gouda cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice

Garnishes and Aromatics

  • 2 scallions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Jerk Shrimp: Toss peeled and deveined shrimp with jerk seasoning, olive oil, and minced garlic. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes. Sauté shrimp in a hot pan for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly caramelized. Set aside, keeping the pan juices for later.
  2. Cook the Grits: Bring water or broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in stone-ground grits. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently, stirring frequently to prevent lumps, for 20-25 minutes until creamy and tender but still textured.
  3. Add Cheese and Cream: Stir butter, heavy cream, and shredded Gouda cheese into the cooked grits. Mix until the cheese melts smoothly. Season with salt, pepper, and lime juice to brighten the flavors.
  4. Combine and Garnish: Gently fold the cooked jerk shrimp and reserved pan juices into the cheesy grits. Top with sliced scallions and chopped cilantro or parsley for fresh herbal notes and color.

Notes

  • Use fresh shrimp when possible for best flavor and texture.
  • Marinate shrimp at least 15 minutes to enhance jerk seasoning impact.
  • Simmer grits slowly and stir often to avoid graininess and bitterness.
  • Add Gouda cheese off heat to keep the cheese from separating, ensuring creaminess.
  • Adjust jerk seasoning quantity according to desired spice level; add lime juice to balance heat.

Nutrition

Keywords: Jerk shrimp, cheesy grits, Gouda, Southern cuisine, Caribbean, spicy shrimp, comfort food, creamy grits

Find it online: https://dailydishez.com/jerk-shrimp-cheesy-grits-with-gouda/