Introduction
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Southern cuisine with this delightful shrimp and grits recipe. Creamy, cheesy grits serve as the perfect base for succulent shrimp cooked in a rich, savory sauce. Topped with crispy bacon and fresh herbs, this dish is sure to impress at any gathering or family dinner.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Grits:
– 2 cups low-fat milk
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal grits
– 2 tablespoons salted butter
– 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
For the Shrimp and Sauce:
– 4 slices bacon, chopped
– 1½ pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1½ cups chopped onion
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce
– ½ teaspoon kosher salt
– ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– ½ cup chopped green onions
– ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
To begin, prepare the creamy grits by combining milk, water, and salt in a large pot over medium heat. As you bring the mixture to a simmer, whisk in the cornmeal grits, ensuring to continuously whisk to avoid lumps. Allow the grits to thicken for about 10 to 15 minutes. Stir in butter and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and set aside.
For the shrimp and sauce, start by cooking the chopped bacon in a skillet until crispy, then drain on a paper towel. In the same skillet, cook the shrimp until they turn pink, then set aside. Sauté onions until softened, add minced garlic, and sprinkle cornstarch to thicken the mixture. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream, then add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, and season with salt and black pepper.
Combine the cooked shrimp and bacon with the sauce, adding chopped green onions and fresh parsley just before serving. Spoon the prepared grits onto plates and top with the shrimp mixture for a delicious Southern dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Grits
1. In a large pot over medium heat, combine the milk, water, and salt. Bring to a simmer.
2. Whisk in the grits, continuing to whisk until they begin to thicken to prevent lumps.
3. Cook the grits for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
4. Stir in the butter and cheese until melted and well combined. Cover and set aside.
Prepare the Shrimp and Sauce
1. In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium-high heat until crisp. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
2. Return the skillet to the heat and add the shrimp to the pan. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink. Transfer the shrimp to a plate and keep warm.
3. Add the chopped onions to the skillet and cook until softened.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the onions and garlic, cooking for an additional minute.
6. Whisk in the chicken broth and cook until the sauce begins to thicken.
7. Whisk in the heavy cream, butter, cayenne pepper, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper.
8. Return the cooked shrimp and bacon to the skillet, stirring to combine.
9. Stir in the chopped green onions and parsley.
Serve
1. Spoon the prepared grits onto serving plates.
2. Top with the shrimp and sauce mixture.
3. Serve immediately.
Notes
Adjust Seasoning
Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce according to your spice preference.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Cooking Grits
To cook grits, combine low-fat milk, water, and salt in a pot over medium heat. Bring to a simmer before whisking in the cornmeal grits. Stir continuously until thickened to avoid lumps, cooking for about 10 to 15 minutes. Finish by mixing in butter and shredded white cheddar cheese until melted.
Preparing the Shrimp
Cook chopped bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until crisp, then remove it and drain on paper towels. In the same skillet, cook the shrimp for 1 to 2 minutes per side until pink. Set aside to keep warm while preparing the sauce.
Sautéing Vegetables
Add chopped onions to the leftover bacon grease in the skillet and sauté until softened. Stir in minced garlic for added flavor and cook for about a minute, ensuring not to burn the garlic.
Thickening the Sauce
Sprinkle cornstarch over the cooked onions and garlic; cook for an additional minute. Then, whisk in low-sodium chicken broth and continue cooking until the sauce thickens. Finish it off with heavy cream, butter, and seasonings.
Combining Ingredients
Return the cooked shrimp and bacon to the skillet with the thickened sauce. Mix in chopped green onions and parsley for freshness and added flavor before serving.
FAQ
Can I use water instead of milk for the grits?
Yes, you can use water only or substitute with vegetable broth for a different flavor profile.
What type of shrimp should I use?
Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp work best for this recipe; you can use fresh or frozen shrimp.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free cornstarch and ensure that the hot sauce and bacon do not contain gluten.
Can I prepare the girt ahead of time?
You can prepare the grits in advance and reheat them with a splash of milk or water before serving.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the sauce?
You can modify the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce to suit your preference for spice. Start with less and add more as needed.
Conclusion
The shrimp and grits dish showcases a delightful combination of creamy, cheesy grits paired with a savory shrimp and sauce that is enriched with bacon and spices. This recipe offers a well-balanced mix of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and comforting meal.
Classic Shrimp Scampi
Try making a classic shrimp scampi by sautéing shrimp in garlic, lemon juice, and white wine, served over pasta or rice for a light and zesty alternative.
Cheesy Grits Casserole
Transform leftover grits into a cheesy grits casserole by combining them with eggs, cheese, and your choice of vegetables, then baking until golden and bubbly.
Spicy Cauliflower Grits
For a healthier twist, substitute the grits with riced cauliflower, mixing in spices and cheese for a low-carb, creamy side that pairs well with shrimp or grilled chicken.
Chicken and Andouille Sausage Gumbo
Create a hearty gumbo by simmering chicken, andouille sausage, and vegetables in a rich roux-based broth, served over rice or the cheesy grits for a filling meal.
Vegetarian Mushroom and Spinach Grits
For a vegetarian option, sauté mushrooms and spinach seasoned with garlic and thyme, and serve them over creamy grits for a delicious meatless dish.
