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Cheesy Shrimp and Grits

Cheesy Shrimp and Grits
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Cheesy Shrimp and Grits is a classic Southern comfort food featuring tender shrimp wrapped in creamy, cheesy stone-ground grits. This quick and easy dish combines buttery, savory, and slightly smoky flavors, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Its customizable nature allows for spice tweaks, cheese swaps, and vegetable additions, delivering a rich, satisfying meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Grits Base

  • 1 cup stone-ground grits
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Shrimp

  • 1 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp butter or oil (for sautéing)

Garnishes (Optional)

  • Chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions
  • Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Grits: Bring 4 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring regularly, until the grits become creamy and tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  2. Add Cheese and Butter: Stir in 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, creating a luscious, velvety finish.
  3. Season and Cook the Shrimp: While grits simmer, season 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp with salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika. Sauté the shrimp in 2 tablespoons of butter or oil over medium heat, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and fragrant.
  4. Combine and Serve: Spoon a generous portion of cheesy grits onto a plate, then top with the sautéed shrimp. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions for freshness and color. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Use stone-ground grits for the best texture – avoid instant grits.
  • Keep stirring the grits to prevent lumps and ensure creaminess.
  • Don’t overcook shrimp; cook just until pink and opaque to avoid rubberiness.
  • Adjust seasoning at the end, as cheese and broth add saltiness.
  • Warm serving plates to keep the dish hot longer.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy shrimp and grits, Southern comfort food, shrimp recipe, creamy grits, quick dinner, gluten free

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/cheesy-shrimp-and-grits/