Description
A comforting Southern classic, this Cheesy Shrimp and Grits recipe features creamy, velvety grits melted with sharp cheddar cheese, perfectly seasoned succulent shrimp, and simple ingredients for a quick and flavorful meal in under 30 minutes. Ideal for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a rich, cheesy dish with a savory punch.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp
- 1 lb fresh or frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Butter or oil for sautéing (about 1-2 tablespoons)
Grits
- 1 cup stone-ground or quick-cooking grits
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and other cheeses)
Additional Ingredients & Garnishes
- 2 cloves garlic, fresh minced
- 2–3 green onions, chopped for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Spices
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Grits: Bring 4 cups of chicken broth to a gentle boil in a medium pot. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of grits, then reduce heat to low. Cook the grits, stirring frequently, until thick and creamy, about 15 to 20 minutes. Stir in 2 tablespoons butter and 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and velvety.
- Cook the Shrimp: While the grits simmer, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 to 2 tablespoons of butter or oil. Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Sauté the shrimp about 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic during the last minute of cooking for aroma. Finish by squeezing fresh lemon juice over the shrimp.
- Combine and Serve: Spoon the hot, cheesy grits into serving bowls or plates. Top generously with the sautéed shrimp. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately for the best creamy and flavorful experience.
Notes
- Use stone-ground grits for a more authentic, textured dish.
- Do not overcook shrimp; remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink to keep them tender.
- Stir grits constantly to prevent lumps and ensure creamy consistency.
- Choose sharp cheddar cheese for a great balance of flavor with the sweetness of shrimp.
- Add lemon juice or hot sauce at the end to brighten flavors without overpowering the dish.
- Frozen shrimp can be used if thawed and patted dry before cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; separate shrimp and grits if possible.
- Reheat grits gently with milk or broth; warm shrimp quickly to avoid toughness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
Keywords: cheesy shrimp and grits, Southern recipe, creamy grits, quick dinner, shrimp recipes, gluten free, comfort food