Description
Shrimp and grits is a timeless dish that captures the essence of Southern comfort food, and it’s the perfect recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family meal or something to impress guests at your next dinner party, shrimp and grits fits the bill. With its flavorful shrimp, creamy grits, and the ability to customize the dish to your preferences, it’s a meal that never disappoints.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
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1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
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2 tbsp olive oil or butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 tsp smoked paprika
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1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning (optional for extra heat)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
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1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
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1 tbsp fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
For the Grits:
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1 cup stone-ground grits
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4 cups water or chicken broth (for more flavor)
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1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
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2 tbsp butter
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1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Cook the Grits:
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In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil. Once the liquid begins to boil, gradually stir in the stone-ground grits.
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Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Stir the grits occasionally to prevent clumping.
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Cook the grits for about 20-25 minutes, until they thicken and become tender. If the grits are too thick, you can add more liquid (water or broth) to achieve your desired consistency.
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Once the grits are done, stir in the heavy cream (or milk), butter, and shredded cheddar cheese for added creaminess. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep the grits covered to stay warm.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
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While the grits are cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
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Season the shrimp with smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning (if using), salt, and pepper.
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Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are fully cooked through.
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Stir in the lemon juice and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat.
3. Assemble the Dish:
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Spoon a generous amount of the creamy grits onto each plate.
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Top the grits with the cooked shrimp, making sure to include some of the flavorful garlic sauce from the pan.
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Garnish with freshly chopped green onions and parsley, if desired.
Notes
Hope you enjoyed this classic Southern dish! Perfect for brunch, dinner, or anytime you crave comfort food with a kick. Don’t forget to share your version with us!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéed
- Cuisine: Southern
Keywords: Shrimp and Grits