Name: Spicy Shrimp and Grits Mug Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 cup quick-cooking grits; 2 cups water; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 green onions, sliced

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe·Leave a Review

Spicy, creamy, and ready in under 10 minutes? Sounds like your new favorite weeknight dinner! This Spicy Shrimp and Grits Mug Meal is the ultimate cozy, comfort food that will satisfy your cravings without weighing you down. It’s the perfect busy-day, microwave-friendly meal that comes together in a flash, with minimal cleanup. Get ready for a delightfully spicy, satisfying dish that will have you licking the mug clean.

Contents show

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Shrimp and Grits Mug Meal

This Spicy Shrimp and Grits Mug Meal is a real-life, weeknight winner that checks all the boxes. It’s quick, easy, and comes together in just a few minutes using your trusty microwave. Plus, it’s a single-serve, no-mess meal that’s perfect for those nights when you need a comforting, stress-free dinner. The bold, spicy flavors of the shrimp and the creamy, cheesy grits create a satisfying, calming dish that’s sure to become a new go-to in your meal rotation. Get ready to enjoy a quick, grab-and-go dinner that’s as rewarding as it is delicious.

Ingredients (Single-Serve)

You only need a handful of simple ingredients to make this Spicy Shrimp and Grits Mug Meal. Grab some quick-cooking grits, shrimp, Cajun seasoning, cheese, and a few pantry staples, and you’ll be well on your way to a cozy, microwave-ready dinner. The best part? You can easily customize the flavors to your taste with a few simple ingredient swaps.

1/2 cup – Quick-cooking grits
1 cup – Water
1/2 lb – Peeled, deveined shrimp
2 tsp – Cajun seasoning
1 tbsp – Hot sauce
1/4 cup – Shredded cheddar cheese
Pinch – Salt and pepper
Chopped green onions or parsley (for garnish)

Ingredient Substitutions

Shrimp: Diced chicken or crispy tofu (for a different protein)
Cajun seasoning: Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne (for a DIY blend)

How to Make Spicy Shrimp and Grits Mug Meal

This Spicy Shrimp and Grits Mug Meal comes together in a snap, thanks to the magic of the microwave. In just a few quick steps, you’ll have a cozy, comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Step 1: Prep Work

Start by gathering all your ingredients and giving the shrimp a quick rinse and pat dry. Then, grab a microwave-safe mug or bowl and get ready to work some culinary magic.

Step 2: Main Cooking Process

Add the grits and water to your mug, and microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway, until the grits are creamy and cooked through. Next, stir in the Cajun seasoning, hot sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Top the grits with the shrimp, and microwave for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.

Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly

Remove the mug from the microwave and stir in the shredded cheese until it’s melted and the grits are nice and creamy. Garnish with a sprinkle of green onions or chopped parsley, if desired, and enjoy your quick, easy, and delicious Spicy Shrimp and Grits Mug Meal.

Variations & Time-Saver Tips

Make it ahead: Prepare the entire dish, let it cool, and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just pop it in the microwave for a quick, stress-free dinner.
Swap the cheese: Try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even creamy goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
Adjust the heat: Use less Cajun seasoning and hot sauce for a milder dish, or add more for an extra kick of spice.
Make it heartier: Stir in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or a handful of spinach or kale for a more substantial meal.

Serving, Storage & Reheat

Serve with: crusty bread or a simple salad.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Microwave Reheat: Give it a quick zap in the microwave until heated through.

Make-Ahead: Prepare the entire dish in advance and refrigerate for a grab-and-go dinner on busy nights.

Nutrition Info

This Spicy Shrimp and Grits Mug Meal is a comforting, satisfying dish that won’t weigh you down. Each serving packs a nutritious punch, with protein-rich shrimp, creamy grits, and a sprinkle of cheese. It’s a well-balanced meal that’s sure to leave you feeling nourished and energized, no matter how busy your day may be.

Serving Size: 1 mug
Calories: 470 kcal
Protein: 35 g
Carbs: 40 g
Fat: 20 g
Sodium: 970 mg

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Spicy Shrimp and Grits Mug Meal is the perfect make-ahead option for busy weeknights. Simply prepare the entire dish, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just pop it in the microwave for a quick, stress-free dinner.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in this recipe. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and even a creamy goat cheese would all work beautifully. Just keep in mind that the type of cheese you use may affect the overall flavor and texture of the dish.

Is this recipe spicy?

This Spicy Shrimp and Grits Mug Meal has a nice kick of heat, thanks to the Cajun seasoning and hot sauce. If you’re not a fan of spicy food, you can easily adjust the heat level by using less Cajun seasoning and hot sauce, or by omitting them altogether.

Can I substitute the shrimp?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you can easily swap it out for diced chicken or crispy tofu. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as the protein you choose may have different cooking needs.

How can I make this recipe more filling?

For a heartier, more filling meal, consider stirring in some diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a handful of spinach or kale. You can also serve this Spicy Shrimp and Grits Mug Meal with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad for a more substantial dinner.

Spicy Shrimp and Grits Mug Meal