Print

Amazing Chipotle Lime Shrimp & Grits in 4 Steps

Chipotle Lime Shrimp & Grits

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Enjoy this warm and comforting Chipotle Lime Shrimp and Grits recipe, blending deep-rooted Southern tradition with a fresh, zesty twist inspired by the Spoon and Sprout’s kitchen conversation.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup stone-ground grits
  • 4 cups water or chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Season the shrimp with chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Set the shrimp aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the minced chipotle pepper, lime juice, and lime zest. Cook for 1 minute, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat. Keep warm.
  5. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or broth and milk to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits.
  6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer according to package directions, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. This usually takes 20-30 minutes for stone-ground grits.
  7. When the grits are tender, stir in the butter and shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Spoon the creamy grits into bowls. Top with the chipotle lime shrimp mixture.
  9. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

  • Stone-ground grits offer the best texture for this comforting dish.
  • Adjust the amount of chipotle pepper based on how much heat you enjoy.
  • For extra richness, you can use half-and-half instead of milk in the grits.
  • You can prepare the grits slightly ahead of time and reheat them gently before serving.

Nutrition