Shrimp and Cheesy Grits
A cozy, simple meal featuring creamy, cheesy grits topped with perfectly cooked shrimp. Perfect for busy weeknights when you crave comfort food.
Ingredients
For the Grits
- 1 cup Grits of your choice Stone ground for best flavor, quick grits for convenience.
- 3 cups Chicken broth or water Chicken broth gives more flavor.
- 1/2 cup Milk or half and half For creaminess.
- 1 cup Sharp cheddar cheese Or a mix of cheddar and parmesan.
- 2 tablespoons Butter To stir into the grits.
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound Shrimp, peeled and deveined Fresh or thawed frozen shrimp.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced Add towards the end of cooking the shrimp.
- 1 teaspoon Paprika or Cajun seasoning For seasoning the shrimp.
- Salt and pepper To taste For seasoning the shrimp and grits.
- 1 lemon For squeezing over shrimp Optional for added flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring broth or water to a gentle boil, whisk in the grits slowly to avoid lumps, then reduce to a low simmer. Stir often.
- When the grits are tender, stir in butter, cheese, and a splash of milk or half and half. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
Cooking the Shrimp
- Pat the shrimp dry and season with paprika or Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Sauté the shrimp in butter (or a mix of butter and a little oil) for about 1 to 2 minutes per side. Add garlic near the end.
Serving
- Spoon the grits into bowls, pile shrimp on top, and drizzle any buttery garlicky pan juices over everything.
Notes
To prevent gritty grits, stir frequently during cooking. Avoid overcooking shrimp to prevent toughness. Use freshly grated cheese whenever possible.