Picture this: it's a chilly evening, and you're craving something warm, comforting, and bursting with flavor. But you're also short on time and energy. Sounds familiar? Well, my friend, I've got just the thing for you: the Instant Pot Spicy Shrimp and Grits Rice Bowl! This recipe is a game-changer—a delightful fusion of Southern comfort food with a spicy kick, all made incredibly easy in your trusty Instant Pot. Ever since I stumbled on this concoction, weeknight dinners have become a whole lot more exciting.
This isn't your grandma's shrimp and grits (though I'm sure hers were amazing too!). We're taking those classic flavors and giving them a modern twist. Imagine tender, juicy shrimp infused with Creole spices, nestled in a creamy bed of cheesy grits and fluffy rice. The Instant Pot works its magic to create a dish that's both deeply satisfying and surprisingly quick to prepare. No more slaving over the stove for hours—just set it and forget it!
I know what you might be thinking: 'Shrimp, grits, and rice all in one bowl? That sounds like a carb overload!' But trust me, it works. The rice adds a delightful texture and helps to balance the richness of the grits and the spice of the shrimp. Plus, it makes the dish even more filling, perfect for those nights when you need something substantial to keep you going. So, are you ready to dive in and create this flavor-packed masterpiece? Let's get cooking!
Required Equipments
- Instant Pot
- Large Skillet
- Wooden Spoon
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
Instant Pot Spicy Shrimp and Grits Rice Bowl: Frequently Asked Questions
Instant Pot Spicy Shrimp and Grits Rice Bowl
Craving comfort food with a kick? This Instant Pot Spicy Shrimp and Grits Rice Bowl is a quick and easy recipe that combines creamy grits, spicy shrimp, and fluffy rice into one delicious dish.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield: 4 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
- Get started by prepping your shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely under cold running water. Peel and devein the shrimp, then pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them get a good sear later on.
- Season the shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 teaspoon of Creole seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Make sure each shrimp is evenly coated for maximum flavor!
- Prepare the grits: In a separate bowl, combine the stone-ground grits with 2 cups of chicken broth. Stir well to ensure there are no lumps. Set aside for later.
- Sauté the aromatics: Turn on your Instant Pot and select the 'Sauté' function. Add olive oil and, once heated, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until they become soft and translucent.
- Add garlic and spices: Stir in the minced garlic, remaining Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant. Trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Toast the rice: Add the uncooked long-grain rice to the Instant Pot and toast it for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Toasting the rice gives it a nutty flavor and helps prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Combine ingredients: Pour the remaining chicken broth into the Instant Pot. Add the seasoned shrimp and the grits mixture. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Pressure cook: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to 'Sealing'. Select the 'Pressure Cook' or 'Manual' function and set the timer for 8 minutes. It's important to ensure the lid is properly sealed to avoid any issues.
- Natural pressure release: Once the cooking time is up, let the Instant Pot release pressure naturally for 10 minutes. Afterward, carefully release any remaining pressure manually.
- Stir in cheese and butter: Open the Instant Pot lid and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and butter until they are melted and fully incorporated. The mixture should be creamy and delicious!
- Season to taste: Taste the rice bowl and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or Creole seasoning to suit your preference.
- Serve: Ladle the Instant Pot Spicy Shrimp and Grits Rice Bowl into bowls. Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!
📝 Notes
- For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of some of the chicken broth.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your spice preference.
- If you don't have Creole seasoning, you can make your own blend using paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and dried oregano.
🍎 Nutrition
Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 20g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Calcium: 150mg
