spicy shrimp and grits recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best spicy shrimp and grits recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite spicy shrimp and grits recipe. This dish has been a staple in my household for years, and it’s always a hit with my family.

The combination of succulent shrimp, creamy grits, and a kick of heat from the spices is absolute perfection. I love how this recipe can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences, whether you like it mild or wild.

As a busy mom, I appreciate that this dish is quick to prepare and can be enjoyed any time of the year. From casual weeknight meals to special occasions like holiday gatherings, this recipe never fails to impress.

And the best part? It’s packed with nutritious ingredients like shrimp, which are rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a great option for families looking for healthy meal ideas.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe and get cooking!

Spicy Shrimp and Grits

4.6 from 1519 votes

A comforting and spicy dish featuring creamy grits and succulent shrimp in a rich, spicy sauce. This Southern-inspired recipe is perfect for a hearty meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Shrimp

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Grits

2 cups water
2 cups milk
1 tsp salt
1 cup stone-ground grits
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the Spicy Sauce

2 tbsp butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp hot sauce

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2Add shrimp, paprika, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
3Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
4Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
5In a medium saucepan, bring water, milk, and salt to a boil over high heat.
6Gradually whisk in grits, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until grits have thickened and absorbed most of the liquid.
7Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
8In the same skillet used for the shrimp, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
9Add onion, garlic, and jalapeño.
10Cook, stirring frequently, for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized.
11Add chicken broth, heavy cream, and hot sauce.
12Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
13Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the spicy sauce.
14Stir to combine and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the shrimp are heated through.
15The sauce should be bubbly and slightly thickened.
16Divide the creamy grits among 4 plates or bowls.
17Spoon the spicy shrimp and sauce over the grits.
18Serve immediately while hot and enjoy.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Medium saucepan
Wooden spoon
Mixing bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 11g❤️Cholesterol: 245mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce to control the heat level. For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika.

This spicy shrimp and grits recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a special gathering with friends and family. The leftovers are perfect for reheating and serving at your next brunch or breakfast gathering – simply serve over toasted bread or with some crispy bacon on top.

And don’t forget about all those delicious health benefits! The combination of protein-rich shrimp, complex carbohydrates from the grits, and fiber-rich vegetables will keep you full and satisfied until your next meal.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Spicy Shrimp and Grits

What is the origin of spicy shrimp and grits?

Spicy shrimp and grits is a classic Southern dish that has its roots in the Lowcountry region of South Carolina. The dish is believed to have originated from the African American community, who used okra as a thickening agent to create a hearty and flavorful stew. Over time, the recipe evolved to include shrimp as a main ingredient and gained popularity throughout the Southern United States.

What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, I recommend using large or extra-large shrimp, as they will provide the best flavor and texture. You can also use frozen shrimp if fresh ones are not available. Make sure to thaw them properly before using.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

While traditional spicy shrimp and grits recipes feature shrimp as the main protein source, you can easily substitute it with other options like tofu or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

How do I store leftover grits?

Cooked grits can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. When reheating, make sure to add some liquid to prevent the grits from becoming too dry.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply replace the traditional all-purpose flour used in some recipes with a gluten-free alternative like almond flour or coconut flour.

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