There's a certain charm to making Shrimp and Grits recipes that transports me straight to the heart of the South. This classic dish is more than just a meal; it's a comforting hug on a plate, filled with memories of family gatherings and Sunday brunches.
The first time I made cheesy shrimp and grits recipes, I was captivated by the creamy grits melding perfectly with the spicy, succulent shrimp. It was love at first bite, and ever since, it's been a go-to recipe for when I need a quick yet indulgent meal.
Despite its gourmet appeal, it's incredibly simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The key lies in using fresh, quality ingredients – plump shrimp, creamy stone-ground grits, and a hint of smoky bacon.
Besides being utterly delicious, shrimp and grits authentic recipe also packs a nutritional punch. Shrimp are a fantastic source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, while grits offer fiber and essential vitamins. This dish is a delightful way to enjoy a balanced meal that feels like a treat!
Shrimp and Grits Recipes
For 4 Servings
Author: Chris
Total time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Steps:
- Cook the Grits: Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the salt and slowly whisk in the grits. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, until thick and creamy, about 20 minutes. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and opaque, about 2 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, paprika, and Cajun seasoning, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine Everything: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Return the shrimp and bacon to the skillet, cooking until heated through, about 2 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
- Serve: Spoon the cheesy grits into bowls and top with the shrimp mixture. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.
Notes:
- For healthy shrimp and grits recipes, substitute shrimp with mushrooms and bacon with smoked tempeh.
- You can use quick-cooking grits to save time, though stone-ground grits provide the best texture.
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your taste preference for more or less heat.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 20g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 30g
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Perfectly Seasoned Shrimp: Ensure your shrimp are well-seasoned. A good Cajun seasoning mix adds a robust, spicy flavor that complements the creamy grits beautifully. If you prefer a milder taste, adjust the amount of seasoning to your liking.
- Bacon Makes It Better: Don't skip the bacon! Cooking the shrimp in bacon drippings adds an extra layer of smoky goodness. You can also use turkey bacon or a vegan alternative if you prefer a healthier option.
- Cheesy Goodness: Mixing sharp cheddar cheese into the grits gives them a rich, creamy texture and a tangy flavor. For a different twist, try using a blend of cheeses, such as gouda or Parmesan.
- Vegetarian Variation: For a vegetarian twist, replace the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms and the bacon with smoked tempeh. This version is equally delicious and perfect for plant-based eaters.
- Serving Suggestions: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve with a side of sautéed greens or a simple salad to complete the meal.
#ShrimpAndGrits #SouthernCooking #QuickRecipes #TalesOfAKitchen
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C.
PrintShrimp and Grits Recipes
- Total Time: 15 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dishes
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
Discover delicious shrimp and grits recipes on Tales Of A Kitchen. Quick, flavorful, and healthy meals that bring Southern charm to your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Grits: Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the salt and slowly whisk in the grits. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, until thick and creamy, about 20 minutes. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and opaque, about 2 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, paprika, and Cajun seasoning, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine Everything: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Return the shrimp and bacon to the skillet, cooking until heated through, about 2 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
- 5.Serve: Spoon the cheesy grits into bowls and top with the shrimp mixture. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.
Notes
- For healthy shrimp and grits recipes, substitute shrimp with mushrooms and bacon with smoked tempeh.
- You can use quick-cooking grits to save time, though stone-ground grits provide the best texture.
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your taste preference for more or less heat.