Go Back
Easy Instant Pot Shrimp and Grits photo

Instant Pot Shrimp and Grits

Creamy quick grits cooked in the Instant Pot and topped with sautéed seasoned shrimp, cheddar, cilantro, and smoked paprika.
Prep Time23 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour 18 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoonolive oil
  • 1 poundshrimpmedium-sized thawed, shells removed
  • 1/2 teaspoonkosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspooncrushed red pepper flakesmore if desired
  • 1 1/2 cupsvegetable brothor chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoonbutterunsalted
  • 1/2 cupquick grits
  • 1/2 cupsharp cheddar cheeselow-fat shredded
  • 2 tablespoonscilantrofresh chopped
  • 1 teaspoonsmoked paprika

Instructions

Instructions

  • Press the "Saute" button on the Instant Pot and, if your model requires, use the "Adjust" button to set to a medium/normal saute temperature. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and heat until shimmering.
  • Add 1 pound shrimp, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring often, until the shrimp are pink and firm (about 2–3 minutes). Transfer shrimp to a plate and keep warm.
  • Add 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth) and 1 tablespoon butter to the pot. Bring to a simmer and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon.
  • Stir in 1/2 cup quick grits until evenly combined. Press "Cancel" to stop the Saute function if needed.
  • Close the lid and set the steam release valve to Sealing. Press "Manual" or "Pressure Cook," set pressure to High, and set the timer for 7 minutes. The Instant Pot will come to pressure before the cook time begins.
  • When the 7 minutes finish, allow a 5-minute natural release (do not move the valve). After 5 minutes, carefully move the valve to Venting to release any remaining pressure, then open the lid when the float valve drops.
  • Stir in 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and well incorporated.
  • Spoon the grits into serving bowls, top with the cooked shrimp, then sprinkle with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika. Serve immediately.

Equipment

  • Instant Pot
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Measuring Cups

Notes

Notes
TIP: If a thinner grits is preferred add and additional 1/2 cup of broth.