Blackened Shrimp and Cheesy Grits
I just got back from a girls trip to Anna Maria Islands in Florida, and I ate my weight in blackened fish tacos and all the seafood I could get my hands on. Blackened shrimp and grits were popular there, and after tasting my friend’s dish in one of our stops, which came with the cheesiest, creamiest grits, I knew I had to recreate them, only a bit lighter. Not to worry, these don’t taste light, they came out great! More favorite shrimp recipes you might like is this zesty lime and avocado shrimp salad, shrimp scampi tacos and this easy shrimp pasta dish with asparagus.
A few weeks ago, I went to the Florida Keys and shared this Blackened Fish recipe, so I modified that recipe using the blackened spice mix for my shrimp and modified my grits from my original cookbook by using sharp cheddar. I loved how it turned out!
What does blackened seasoning taste like?
Blackened seasoning is savory with a bit of a kick. There’s something so good about how dried oregano and thyme combine with cayenne, paprika, and garlic powder to flavor the shrimp. It’s a true taste of the Gulf Coast and one I can’t get enough of. You can adjust to heat to your liking, I make it on the milder side for my family.
How to Make Blackened Shrimp and Grits
This healthy shrimp and grits recipe takes about 30 minutes to cook. While the grits are simmering, you can make the shrimp.
Season the shrimp: Combine the blackened spices, spritz the shrimp with oil, and coat with the spice mixture. Cook the grits: Bring two cups of chicken broth, milk, water, and salt to a boil. Slowly stir in the grits and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to lower, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in the butter, cheddar cheese, and parmesan. Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to a cast-iron skillet on medium-high. Cook for about two minutes on each side until the spices are darkened and aromatic. Make the pan sauce: Remove the shrimp from the pan and some broth or wine to deglaze it. Cook for a minute until it reduces by half, and drizzle over the shrimp and grits.
What to Serve with Blackened Shrimp and Grits
This is extremely filling, but if you want something green to round out your meal, you could serve blackened shrimp and grits with wilted spinach with garlic or green beans.
More Shrimp Recipes You’ll Love:
Grilled Shrimp and Panzanella Skewers Shrimp Ceviche Shrimp and Andouille Sheet Pan Dinner Drunken Shrimp Zesty Lime and Shrimp Avocado Salad
