Homemade Jerk Steak & Shrimp Over Tropical Yellow Rice

Bold, smoky, savory, and lightly spicy — this skillet-style Homemade Jerk Steak & Shrimp Over Tropical Yellow Rice is a true Caribbean-inspired feast. Juicy cubes of steak, perfectly cooked shrimp, and caramelized peppers and onions all sit atop fragrant yellow rice, creating a plate bursting with color, flavor, and comfort. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend special, this surf-and-turf skillet brings tropical vibes right to your kitchen.

Introduction

Caribbean cuisine has a way of making every meal feel like a celebration. Its vibrant flavors, bold spices, and colorful ingredients create dishes that are as visually appealing as they are delicious. Jerk Steak & Shrimp Over Tropical Yellow Rice is a perfect example. With every bite, you experience a symphony of flavors — from the smokiness of the seared steak and the light heat of jerk seasoning to the sweetness of caramelized peppers and the buttery, aromatic rice underneath.

The inspiration behind this dish comes from the classic Caribbean “surf and turf” concept, blending land and sea proteins with tropical, comforting sides. Traditionally, jerk seasoning is a Jamaican staple, known for its smoky, spicy, and aromatic profile. Pairing it with shrimp adds a delicate seafood sweetness that balances the heat and richness of the steak. Serve it over yellow rice — infused with turmeric or annatto from Sazón — and you have a complete, satisfying meal that is as beautiful as it is flavorful.

This recipe works for almost any occasion. It’s perfect for casual weeknight dinners, weekend feasts, and even family gatherings where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal yet elegant enough for entertaining friends or a small dinner party.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Caribbean flavor — Jerk seasoning, smoked paprika, and aromatic spices deliver a smoky, slightly spicy punch in every bite.
• Protein-packed surf and turf — Steak and shrimp provide a balanced mix of textures and tastes.
• Vibrant, colorful presentation — Red and green peppers, golden yellow rice, and seared proteins make for a visually stunning dish.
• Quick and easy — From start to finish, the recipe can be completed in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile — Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even special occasions.
• Customizable heat — Adjust the jerk seasoning from mild to hot based on your taste preference.

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Jerk Steak & Shrimp (Serves 3–4)

• 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into cubes
• 12–15 shrimp, peeled & deveined
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 tbsp jerk seasoning (mild or hot)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Tropical Yellow Rice

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 tsp turmeric or 1 packet Sazón with annatto
• 1 tbsp butter
• Salt, to taste

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Spatula or tongs for searing steak and shrimp
• Mixing bowls for seasoning steak
• Spoon for stirring rice
• Serving platter or individual bowls

Optional:

• Garlic press for fresh garlic if you prefer fresh to powder
• Small saucepan if you want to warm the rice separately

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season the Steak

1. In a large bowl, toss the steak cubes with 2 tbsp jerk seasoning, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
2. Make sure each piece of steak is evenly coated with the spices for maximum flavor penetration.

2. Sear the Steak

1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the seasoned steak cubes in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
3. Sear 3–4 minutes per side until the steak is browned and caramelized.
4. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside on a plate to rest. Resting ensures the juices stay inside the meat.

3. Cook the Shrimp

1. In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat.
2. Lightly season the shrimp with salt and pepper.
3. Add the shrimp to the pan and cook 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and slightly charred.
4. Remove the shrimp and set aside with the steak.

4. Sauté the Veggies

1. Add the remaining 1 tbsp butter to the skillet.
2. Add the chopped green and red bell peppers and the chopped onion.
3. Cook 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and caramelized.

5. Make the Tropical Yellow Rice

1. In a medium bowl or saucepan, mix 2 cups cooked rice with 1 tsp turmeric (or 1 packet Sazón with annatto), 1 tbsp butter, and salt to taste.
2. Stir until the rice turns a vibrant yellow and is fragrant.

6. Assemble the Plate

1. Spread the tropical yellow rice on a large platter or individual bowls.
2. Top with the seared steak, cooked shrimp, and sautéed peppers and onions.
3. Drizzle any pan juices over the top for extra flavor.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Heat Adjustment

• Use mild jerk seasoning if you prefer less spice, or hot jerk seasoning for a more intense flavor.
• You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to increase heat further.

Vegetarian Option

• Replace steak and shrimp with firm tofu or tempeh. Toss with the same spices and sear until golden.

Rice Variations

• Coconut rice: Replace butter with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical flavor.
• Add diced pineapple or mango to the rice for extra sweetness.

Extra Flavor Boosts

• Squeeze fresh lime over the top before serving for a citrusy finish.
• Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for color and freshness.
• Add sliced jalapeño to the veggies for a touch of heat.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

Taste & Texture

• Savory and smoky from the seared steak and jerk spices.
• Slightly sweet from caramelized peppers and onions.
• Tender and juicy steak paired with firm, lightly charred shrimp.
• Buttery, fragrant rice with a tropical twist.

Side Dishes That Pair Well

• Simple green salad with lime vinaigrette
• Grilled or roasted vegetables
• Black beans or kidney beans for extra protein
• Warm corn tortillas or flatbread

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount (Approx.)
Calories	450–500 kcal
Protein	35–40 g
Carbohydrates	45–50 g
Fat	15–18 g
Fiber	3–4 g
Sodium	Varies based on seasoning

Dietary considerations: naturally gluten-free; contains shellfish and red meat.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and marinate the steak up to 2 hours in advance.
• Rice: Cook the yellow rice ahead and reheat with a splash of water or butter.
• Reheating: Gently reheat steak and shrimp in a skillet over low-medium heat; avoid microwaving to prevent overcooking.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw completely before cooking. Pat dry to prevent excess moisture.

2. Can I use a different cut of steak?
Sirloin or ribeye are recommended, but you can also use flank or skirt steak.

3. How spicy is this dish?
It depends on the jerk seasoning used. Mild gives subtle heat; hot provides a kick.

4. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Use a larger skillet or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

5. Can this recipe be made on a grill?
Yes, both steak cubes and shrimp can be grilled instead of pan-seared for a smoky flavor.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Time
Prep	10 minutes
Steak Sear	6–8 minutes
Shrimp Cook	4–6 minutes
Veggie Sauté	5–7 minutes
Rice Prep	2–3 minutes
Total	25–30 minutes

Serving Suggestions

• Arrange on a large platter for a family-style meal.
• Use individual bowls for a colorful presentation.
• Garnish with fresh herbs or a wedge of lime for added vibrancy.

Recipe Variations

1. Coconut-Lime Jerk Rice Bowl – Add coconut milk and lime zest to the rice.
2. Vegetarian Surf & Turf – Substitute steak and shrimp with tofu and tempeh.
3. Extra Veggie Medley – Add zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to the sauté.
4. Sweet & Spicy Twist – Drizzle pineapple glaze or mango chutney over the assembled dish.

Ingredient Spotlight

Jerk Seasoning

A key component of Caribbean cooking, jerk seasoning is a bold blend of spices like allspice, thyme, and chili peppers. It gives the steak its signature smoky, spicy flavor. Store in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.

Turmeric / Sazón with Annatto

These spices give the rice its vibrant yellow color and subtle earthy flavor. Turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory, while Sazón adds both color and aromatic depth.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing steak to get a proper caramelized crust.
• Let the steak rest before assembling to keep it juicy.
• Toast spices lightly in a dry skillet before adding to enhance aroma.
• Use medium-high heat for shrimp for quick searing without overcooking.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigeration: Store cooked components separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Freezing: Not recommended for shrimp as it becomes rubbery. Steak and rice can be frozen separately for up to 1 month.
• Assembling later: Keep rice, protein, and veggies separate until ready to serve for best texture.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrition	Amount
Calories	~480 kcal
Protein	36 g
Carbs	48 g
Fat	17 g
Fiber	3–4 g
Dietary Notes	Gluten-free, contains shellfish and red meat

Expanded Conclusion

This Homemade Jerk Steak & Shrimp Over Tropical Yellow Rice recipe is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that brings the Caribbean straight to your kitchen. With bold spices, tender steak, juicy shrimp, and buttery tropical rice, it’s a meal that’s as satisfying as it is colorful. It’s quick enough for weeknights yet special enough for gatherings.

By mastering this one skillet recipe, you’ll have a reliable, impressive dish that delivers protein, vegetables, and comfort all in one plate. Try it tonight, share it with friends, and enjoy the tropical flavors that make every bite feel like a mini-vacation.

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