Description
Shrimp and Grits is a Southern classic that combines the creamy, hearty texture of stone-ground grits with succulent shrimp and crispy bacon. The addition of cheddar cheese and a hint of paprika and cayenne in the shrimp elevates the dish to new levels of comfort and flavor. It’s the perfect mix of savory, spicy, and rich in every bite. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just a cozy meal at home, Shrimp and Grits brings a taste of the South to your table with its warm, comforting flavors. This dish can be customized with different levels of spice and variations of cheese, making it adaptable to your preferences. It’s simple, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium pot, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits, reduce the heat, and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in cheddar cheese, butter, and heavy cream into the grits. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set aside and keep warm.
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
- Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Season the shrimp with paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Stir in the lemon juice and cooked bacon, and allow to cook for an additional minute.
- Serve the shrimp mixture over the warm grits. Garnish with chopped parsley and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes