Creamy shrimp and grits is a classic Southern comfort dish made with tender shrimp, buttery grits, and savory seasoning. This version brings together quick-cooking grits, garlic, onion, and a rich pan sauce for a satisfying meal that works for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quick-cooking grits
- 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter plus more for serving
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese optional
- 1 teaspoon salt plus more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper divided
- 1 1/2 pounds large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 slices bacon chopped
- 1 small yellow onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice optional
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring the water or broth, milk, and 1/2 teaspoon salt to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits, reduce the heat to low, and cook, stirring often, until thick and creamy, about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Stir in the butter and cheddar cheese, if using. Cover and keep warm over very low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the texture.
- In a bowl, season the shrimp with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon and cook until crisp, then transfer to a plate, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
- Add the onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
- Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, 2 to 3 minutes per side, depending on size.
- Stir in the lemon juice, remaining black pepper, and cooked bacon. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
- Spoon the grits into bowls, top with the shrimp mixture, and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 34gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 250mgSodium: 980mgPotassium: 520mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 18mgIron: 15mg