Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Southern Style Shrimp and Grits is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp with creamy, buttery grits. This dish is a staple of Southern cuisine, known for its balance of savory and spicy flavors. The shrimp is typically seasoned with Cajun spices, while the grits are enriched with butter and cheese, making for a rich and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
ingredients
Shrimp
unsalted butter
olive oil
garlic
Cajun seasoning
lemon juice
fresh parsley
Grits
stone-ground grits
water
milk
unsalted butter
cheddar cheese
salt
black pepper
directions
- Begin by preparing the grits. In a saucepan, bring water and milk to a boil. Stir in the grits, reduce the heat to low, and cook until thickened (about 20 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the grits are cooked, remove from heat and stir in butter, cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper. Keep warm.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and cooked through.
- Stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley, then remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- To serve, spoon the creamy grits onto plates and top with the shrimp mixture. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
- For extra flavor, add crumbled bacon to the shrimp and grits.
- Use different types of cheese, such as Parmesan, for a twist on the traditional cheddar.
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the shrimp.
- Replace the shrimp with scallops for a seafood variation.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the grits gently on the stove with a splash of milk, and reheat the shrimp in the microwave or on the stovetop.
FAQs
Can I make this dish without Cajun seasoning?
Yes, you can use Old Bay seasoning, or simply salt and pepper for a milder flavor.
Can I use instant grits?
While stone-ground grits give the best texture and flavor, instant grits can be used as a quicker alternative.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
The grits can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. However, shrimp is best cooked fresh to maintain its texture.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more Cajun seasoning, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce to the shrimp for an added kick.
Conclusion
Southern Style Shrimp and Grits is a delicious, soul-satisfying dish that brings together the rich flavors of the South in every bite. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or as a comforting weeknight dinner, it’s sure to impress with its perfect combination of creamy grits and flavorful shrimp.
Print
Southern Style Shrimp and Grits
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, Boiling
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
A classic Southern dish featuring juicy shrimp in a rich, creamy sauce served over a bed of buttery, cheesy grits, perfect for a hearty meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for grits)
- 1/4 cup milk or cream (for grits)
Instructions
- Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium pot. Add the grits and stir. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Stir in butter, milk, and cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm.
- While the grits are cooking, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add shrimp to the skillet and season with smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth, heavy cream, and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the shrimp to soak up the flavors.
- Serve the shrimp and sauce over the creamy grits. Garnish with chopped parsley and additional lemon wedges if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a dash of hot sauce.
- For a different flavor, substitute the shrimp with scallops or a mix of seafood.
- Grits can be prepared in advance and reheated on the stovetop with a bit of added milk or water.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a bit longer until it reduces to your desired consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 230 mg
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