Shrimp and Grits Recipe
Whenever I make this shrimp and grits recipe, I'm reminded of warm, sunny mornings spent in a cozy Southern kitchen, the air filled with the tantalizing aromas of sizzling bacon and bubbling grits. It's a dish that brings people together, creating cherished memories around the table.
I vividly remember the first time I tried shrimp and grits at a small, charming café in Charleston. The creamy grits were the perfect backdrop for the spicy, succulent shrimp, and I knew I had to recreate this magic at home. Now, every time I whip up this recipe, it's like taking a nostalgic journey back to that unforgettable experience.
What Makes This Shrimp and Grits Recipe So Special?
There's something incredibly comforting about a shrimp and grits recipe that takes you straight to the heart of the American South. This dish combines creamy, cheesy grits with succulent, spicy shrimp, creating a harmony of flavors and textures that's simply irresistible. Whether you're looking to impress guests at a brunch or seeking a comforting weeknight dinner, this shrimp and grits recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of smoky bacon, spicy shrimp, and rich, creamy grits creates a mouthwatering dish.
- Easy to Make: Despite its gourmet appearance, this shrimp and grits recipe is straightforward and perfect for cooks of all levels.
- Versatile: Great for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner, and it can easily be adapted to suit different tastes or dietary needs.
Benefits of Eating Shrimp and Grits
Shrimp and grits isn't just delicious; it's also packed with nutritional benefits:
- High Protein: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Shrimp provides vital nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine, while grits offer a good source of iron and B vitamins.
- Balanced Meal: This dish combines protein from shrimp, carbohydrates from grits, and healthy fats from bacon and cheese, providing a balanced meal that keeps you satisfied.
Whenever I make this shrimp and grits recipe, I'm reminded of warm, sunny mornings spent in a cozy Southern kitchen, the air filled with the tantalizing aromas of sizzling bacon and bubbling grits. It's a dish that brings people together, creating cherished memories around the table.
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 piece lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Boil the Liquid
In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil. Adding broth will give the grits a richer flavor.
- Add the Grits
Slowly whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits to avoid clumping.
- Simmer and Stir
Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, until the grits are thick and creamy, about 20-25 minutes.
- Add the Cheese and Butter
Stir in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 6 slices of chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
- Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add 1 finely chopped onion and 1 finely chopped bell pepper. Sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add the Garlic and Spices
Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the Shrimp
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Finish the Sauce
Pour in 1/4 cup of chicken broth and the juice of 1 lemon. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Garnish
Stir the cooked bacon back into the skillet. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley.
- Putting All Together
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Plate the Dish: Spoon the creamy grits into serving bowls.
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Top with Shrimp: Ladle the shrimp and sauce over the grits.
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Garnish: For an extra touch, garnish with additional chopped parsley and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, if desired.
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Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 480kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 27g42%
- Sodium 920mg39%
- Total Carbohydrate 28g10%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 3g
- Protein 30g60%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Expert Tips for the Best Shrimp and Grits
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Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh, wild-caught shrimp will give the best flavor. If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
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Cheese Variations: Try using different types of cheese in the grits, such as gouda or parmesan, for a unique twist.
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Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper to your heat preference. You can also add a dash of hot sauce for extra kick.
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Make-Ahead: The grits can be made ahead of time and reheated with a splash of milk to restore their creamy texture.
Hi there! I’m Chef Elizabeth Gilbert, your go-to writer and culinary guide at easyrecipes.club. I’m absolutely passionate about exploring and sharing the rich flavors of world cuisine. From cozy comfort foods to exotic dishes that’ll transport your taste buds, I’ve got all the tips and tricks to help you whip up delicious meals with ease. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a kitchen pro, I’m here to make cooking fun and accessible for everyone. Let’s get cooking and create some mouthwatering dishes together!
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