Shrimp and Grits – Creamy, buttery grits paired with tender, perfectly seasoned shrimp create a perfect flavors that feels both indulgent and comforting.
What Are Shrimp and Grits?
Shrimp and grits originated as a simple, hearty breakfast in the Lowcountry regions of the Southern United States. Over time, this dish has evolved into a beloved staple at brunches and dinner tables alike, often enhanced with bold spices, rich sauces, and savory add-ins like bacon or cheese. At its core, the recipe celebrates humble ingredients: shrimp, grits, butter, and a touch of seasoning.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Shrimp and Grits
- Use Stone-Ground Grits: While instant grits are convenient, stone-ground grits deliver superior texture and flavor. They take longer to cook but are worth the effort.
- Season Every Layer: From the grits to the shrimp, don’t skimp on seasoning. A well-seasoned base elevates the entire dish.
- Cook the Shrimp Just Right: Overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery. Sauté them until just pink and opaque—about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the cayenne and smoked paprika to your spice preference.
- Serve Immediately: Shrimp and grits taste best fresh. The creamy grits firm up as they cool, so dig in while it’s warm!
Delicious Variations
- Cajun Shrimp and Grits: Add Cajun or Creole seasoning for a spicy, smoky twist. Top with diced Andouille sausage for extra flavor.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp and Grits: Sauté the shrimp in a mixture of garlic and butter for a more delicate flavor profile.
- Cheesy Grits: Stir in extra cheddar, Parmesan, or even goat cheese for a creamy, cheesy base.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute shrimp with roasted mushrooms or grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
- Seafood Medley: Include scallops or crab meat alongside shrimp for a luxurious upgrade.
How to Serve Shrimp and Grits
Shrimp and grits is versatile enough to be served at any time of day:
- For Breakfast or Brunch: Pair with a fried egg or fresh fruit salad for a complete Southern-style brunch.
- For Dinner: Serve with collard greens, sautéed spinach, or roasted asparagus for a hearty, balanced meal.
- As an Appetizer: Portion into small bowls or ramekins for a crowd-pleasing starter at your next dinner party.
How to Store and Reheat Shrimp and Grits
If you have leftovers, follow these steps to keep your dish tasting fresh:
- Refrigerate: Store shrimp and grits in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Reheat Grits: Add a splash of water or stock to loosen the grits, then reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently.
- Reheat Shrimp: Warm the shrimp briefly in a skillet over medium heat. Avoid microwaving, as it can make shrimp rubbery.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use quick grits instead of stone-ground grits? Yes, quick grits are a faster alternative, but they lack the depth of flavor and texture found in stone-ground grits. If you’re short on time, they’ll still yield a tasty dish.
2. What’s the best type of shrimp to use? Fresh, wild-caught shrimp are ideal, but frozen shrimp work just as well. Look for large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture.
3. Is shrimp and grits gluten-free? Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken stock and seasonings, shrimp and grits are naturally gluten-free.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time? While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the grits ahead and keep them warm in a slow cooker. Cook the shrimp just before serving for the best flavor.
5. What’s the difference between Cajun and Creole shrimp and grits? Cajun seasoning emphasizes bold, smoky flavors with a touch of heat, while Creole seasoning incorporates more herbs and a tomato-based sauce.
Shrimp And Grits (Easy Classic)
Shrimp and Grits - Creamy, buttery grits paired with tender, perfectly seasoned shrimp create a perfect flavors that feels both indulgent and comforting.
Ingredients
Grits
- 1 cup yellow grits
- 3 tbsp butter, unsalted
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 4 cups water
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
Shrimp
- 5-6 strips bacon, chopped (about 4 ounces)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 18-20 )
- 4 scallions, sliced
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 2 tsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 2 dashes hot sauce, optional
Instructions
Making the grits
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. add grits and salt. Put the lid on simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until water is absorbed.
- Add butter and heavy cream. Mix well then add the cheese and stir.
Making the shrimp
- Heat a skillet on medium high heat. Add bacon and cook until crisp for about 10 minutes.
- Remove the bacon from the skillet and leave the bacon fat in the pan.
- Season shrimp with salt and pepper. Add to the pan and cook for about for a minute.
- Add the sliced scallions, hot sauce, lemon juice, garlic, and the cooked bacon. Toss to coat and cook for about 1-2 minutes or until cooked through.
- In a bowl, add the grits and then top it with cooked shrimp.
- Enjoy immediately.
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Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 519Total Fat 33gSaturated Fat 18gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 13gCholesterol 329mgSodium 1727mgCarbohydrates 13gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 40g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
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