Description
Experience the comforting flavors of the South with this creamy Shrimp and Grits recipe. Juicy shrimp are sautéed with bacon, onions, and bell peppers, then served over rich, cheesy stone-ground grits for a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil.
- Once boiling, slowly whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes to prevent lumps.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until creamy and tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- While the grits are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
- Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the bacon grease.
- Sauté the finely chopped onion and diced bell pepper for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
- Toss in the shrimp, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook for 3-4 minutes until shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and mix everything together. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Spoon a generous portion of creamy grits onto each plate, creating a well in the center.
- Top with the shrimp and bacon mixture, including sautéed vegetables.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra creaminess, substitute some of the water or broth with milk or cream.
- Add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes