Description
This Authentic Southern Shrimp and Grits recipe delivers a comforting and classic Southern dish featuring creamy stone-ground grits topped with perfectly sautéed spiced shrimp. A delicious combination of sharp cheddar cheese, butter, and aromatic spices makes this meal a flavorful and satisfying option for any time you crave a taste of the South.
Ingredients
Scale
Grits
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
Shrimp
- 1 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Spices: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Grits: In a medium pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in the stone-ground grits to prevent lumps. Reduce the heat to low and let them simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grits are creamy and tender. Stir in 2 tablespoons of butter and the grated sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and combined.
- Sauté the Shrimp: While the grits cook, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
- Serve and Garnish: Spoon the creamy grits onto plates and top with the sautéed shrimp mixture. Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley to add a fresh, vibrant flavor and an attractive presentation. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, substitute part of the chicken broth with milk or cream.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to your heat preference, starting with less if sensitive to spice.
- Use stone-ground grits for the best texture and authentic flavor.
- You can add crispy bacon bits or crumbled sausage for additional savory notes.
- Leftover shrimp and grits can be refrigerated separately and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
