Cheesy Shrimp and Grits

Cheesy Shrimp and Grits

There’s something fabulously comforting about a big bowl of Cheesy Shrimp and Grits, a dish that’s as rich in flavor as it is in tradition. Imagine succulent shrimp sautéed to perfection and nestled on a bed of creamy, cheesy grits. It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds! This Southern classic is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive brunch with friends. Did you know that shrimp and grits originated from the Lowcountry of the South? This dish has evolved from humble beginnings to become a beloved culinary staple! Not only is it delectable, but it also comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. If you’re a fan of comfort food that brings everyone to the table, this recipe is a must-try! And if you enjoy delicious home-cooked meals, you might also want to check out my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, which is equally quick and flavorful. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this cheesy goodness!

What is Cheesy Shrimp and Grits?

Cheesy Shrimp and Grits, you might ask? What could that possibly mean? Well, this delightful dish brilliantly combines the South’s favorite breakfast staple—grits—with the ocean’s treasure—shrimp! It’s a match made in culinary heaven that not only warms your belly but also makes your taste buds dance with joy. You know the saying, "The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach?" This dish must be the key to many hearts, thanks to its comforting flavors and satisfying ingredients. Picture this: creamy dreaminess from the grits, perfectly seasoned shrimp, all topped with melty cheese goodness. Teenagers love it; parents adore it; what’s not to like? So gather your fantastic ingredients and give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Shrimp and Grits

There are so many reasons to adore Cheesy Shrimp and Grits! First off, the star of the show is, of course, the shrimp—juicy, plump, and infused with flavor that will make your taste buds sing. Secondly, making this dish at home is incredibly cost-effective compared to dining out. You can whip up a stunning meal without breaking the bank! And let’s not forget about the cheese. The rich, creamy texture of the cheese melds perfectly with the grits, creating a dish that feels special but is surprisingly easy to prepare. If you think you might like something simpler like classic mac and cheese, this dish will not only rival it but elevate your home-cooked game to new heights! Give it a try, and see for yourself how easy and delicious it is to make this Southern classic at home.

How to Make Cheesy Shrimp and Grits

Quick Overview

Cheesy Shrimp and Grits is the perfect dish for those who want something quick, easy, and delicious. In just about 30 minutes, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your kitchen. Featuring creamy grits topped with perfectly sautéed shrimp, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends while providing a satisfying meal that feels hearty and indulgent.

Key Ingredients for Cheesy Shrimp and Grits

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Grits: In a large pot, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.

2. Add Cheese: Once the grits are cooked, remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and butter. Mix until creamy and cheese is melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Cook the Shrimp: In a separate skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 3-5 minutes or until shrimp turns pink and is cooked through.

4. Plate and Serve: Spoon the cheesy grits into bowls and top generously with the sautéed shrimp. Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh crunch.

What to Serve Cheesy Shrimp and Grits With

Pair your Cheesy Shrimp and Grits with a refreshing side salad to complement the richness of the dish. A simple arugula salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances beautifully with the creamy flavors. For drinks, consider serving it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced tea with lemon. These pairings create a well-rounded meal perfect for sharing!

Top Tips for Perfecting Cheesy Shrimp and Grits

To elevate your Cheesy Shrimp and Grits experience, consider these top tips:

• Use High-Quality Shrimp: Good quality shrimp makes a significant difference in taste. You can ask your local fishmonger about the best options available.
• Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like pepper jack or gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Avoid Overcooking: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp; they can become rubbery if cooked too long. When they turn pink, they are perfect!
• Make it Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of a kick, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce when cooking the shrimp for a fiery twist.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, trust us!), store the Cheesy Shrimp and Grits in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or milk to the grits to loosen them up and return them to a creamy consistency. Warm the shrimp separately to avoid overcooking them. If you’re planning to freeze the dish, it’s best to store the components separately, as grits may change texture upon freezing. Enjoy making this delightful dish, and watch as it becomes a regular favorite in your meal rotation!

Cheesy Shrimp and Grits

A comforting Southern classic featuring creamy grits topped with succulent sautéed shrimp, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes for a perfect meal any time.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Southern

Calories: 500

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Grits

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Feel free to experiment with other types of cheese.
• 2 tablespoons butter Use for both grits and shrimp.

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined Use high-quality shrimp for best flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced Ensure to sauté until fragrant.
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 green onions, sliced for garnish Adds a fresh crunch.

Method

 

Prepare the Grits

1. In a large pot, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
2. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.

Add Cheese

1. Once the grits are cooked, remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and butter. Mix until creamy and cheese is melted.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cook the Shrimp

1. In a separate skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 3-5 minutes or until shrimp turns pink and is cooked through.

Plate and Serve

1. Spoon the cheesy grits into bowls and top generously with the sautéed shrimp.
2. Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh crunch.

Notes

For a little kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce when cooking the shrimp. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or milk to the grits.