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Southern Shrimp and Grits

Southern Shrimp and Grits
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This Southern Shrimp and Grits recipe perfectly blends creamy, cheesy grits with tender, spiced shrimp for a comforting and flavorful Southern classic. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an ideal weeknight meal offering bold flavors, customizable spice levels, and minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Grits Base

  • 1 cup stone-ground grits
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Shrimp

  • 1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Finishing Touches

  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Grits: Bring 4 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits. Reduce heat and simmer gently, stirring frequently to prevent lumps, until the grits are thick and tender, about 15-20 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
  2. Season and Cook the Shrimp: While the grits cook, toss 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, add minced garlic and diced onion, and sauté until fragrant and translucent. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are just cooked through.
  3. Combine and Finish: Squeeze 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice over the cooked shrimp, then spoon the shrimp and sauce over the creamy grits. Garnish with chopped green onions and parsley for a fresh and colorful finish. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use stone-ground grits for a creamier and more authentic texture over instant grits.
  • Do not overcook shrimp to avoid a rubbery texture; cook until opaque pink.
  • Stir grits frequently during cooking to prevent lumps and scorching.
  • Add cheese off the heat to maintain a smooth and melty consistency.
  • Balance richness with acidity by adding lemon juice or a dash of vinegar.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp and grits, Southern shrimp and grits, easy shrimp recipe, creamy grits, Southern comfort food, one-pan shrimp dish

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/southern-shrimp-and-grits/