I have always been a huge fan of shrimp and cheesy grits recipe, it’s a staple in our household. The dish originates from the southern United States, where it’s been a popular breakfast option for centuries. The combination of succulent shrimp, creamy cheese, and comforting grits is absolute perfection.
My family loves it just as much as I do, and it’s a great way to get everyone around the table on a busy morning. The key to making this dish truly shine is in the technique – you want to cook the grits until they’re smooth and velvety, then top them with a rich and tangy sauce made from butter, cheese, and spices. It’s a game-changer for any meal of the day.
When I’m in charge of cooking, you can bet that shrimp and cheesy grits will be on the menu. My kids adore helping me in the kitchen, especially when we’re making this recipe together – they love cracking eggs and stirring the grits until they’re just right. This recipe has become a family tradition, passed down from my grandmother who taught me how to make it when I was just a teenager.
It’s more than just a meal – it’s an experience that brings us all together. And the best part? It’s relatively healthy compared to other breakfast options – just think about all those omega-3 rich shrimp and fiber-rich grits!
So if you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying breakfast recipe that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters, look no further than shrimp and cheesy grits.
Shrimp and Cheesy Grits
4.7 from 1045 votes
This Southern classic features creamy stone-ground grits loaded with sharp cheddar and tender shrimp in a savory bacon-infused sauce. The combination of rich, cheesy grits and perfectly seasoned shrimp creates a comforting and satisfying meal.
1Bring 4 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil in a large saucepan over high heat.
2Slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits, reduce the heat to low, and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 20 to 25 minutes until the grits are thick and tender.
3Stir the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, unsalted butter, and black pepper into the cooked grits until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
4Keep the grits warm over very low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5While the grits cook, cook the chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes until crispy.
6Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
7Add the olive oil to the skillet with the bacon fat and heat over medium-high heat.
8Season the shrimp with cayenne pepper, paprika, and a pinch of salt, then cook them in the hot oil for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
9Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
10Reduce the heat to medium and add the diced onion to the skillet, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
11Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, then pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
12Return the cooked shrimp and crispy bacon to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
13Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until everything is heated through, then remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley.
14Serve the shrimp mixture over the warm cheesy grits.
For a richer flavor, use sharp white cheddar or add a tablespoon of hot sauce to the shrimp. Stone-ground grits provide the best texture, but quick-cooking grits can be substituted with a shorter cooking time.
Watch Video Of How Shrimp and Cheesy Grits Works
This shrimp and cheesy grits recipe is one of my go-to dishes for any occasion – whether it’s a special event or just a regular family gathering.
It’s easy to make ahead of time and reheat when needed, which makes it perfect for busy mornings or weeknight meals.
One thing I’ve learned over the years is that storing leftover shrimp and cheesy grits in an airtight container in the fridge will keep them fresh for up to three days – simply reheat when needed by microwaving or steaming until hot through.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Shrimp and Cheesy Grits
Q1: What type of cheese should I use for this recipe?
A1: You can use any type of cheese you like for this recipe, but I highly recommend using sharp cheddar or Parmesan for the best flavor. Both of these cheeses have a strong, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the shrimp and the earthiness of the grits.
Q2: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A2: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe, but make sure to thaw them first before using them. Frozen shrimp are often just as fresh as fresh ones and will still yield great results.
Q3: How do I prevent the grits from becoming too mushy?
A3: To prevent the grits from becoming too mushy, make sure to cook them over low heat after adding the liquid ingredients. You can also add some extra water or milk if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A4: Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time by preparing all the ingredients except for cooking them. Then simply assemble everything together when you’re ready to serve.
Q5: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
A5: No, this recipe is not suitable for vegetarians as it contains shrimp which is an animal product.
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