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Classic Southern Shrimp and Grits

Close-up of creamy shrimp and grits topped with seasoned shrimp, bacon crumbles, and green onions.
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Make a traditional, flavorful shrimp and grits dish featuring creamy cheddar grits and a savory, slightly spicy shrimp sauce.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup stone ground grits
  • 4 cups water or chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions

  1. Cook the grits: Bring water or broth and salt to a boil in a medium saucepan. Slowly whisk in the grits. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until thick.
  2. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the grits are smooth and creamy. Keep warm.
  3. Cook the bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
  4. Sauté vegetables: Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the bacon drippings. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  5. Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet. Sprinkle with Cajun seasoning and black pepper. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink.
  6. Make the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the butter until melted.
  7. Serve immediately: Spoon the creamy grits into bowls. Top generously with the shrimp and sauce. Sprinkle the reserved crispy bacon over the top.

Notes

  • For richer flavor, use half water and half milk when cooking the grits.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper with the Cajun seasoning.
  • Ensure your shrimp are fully thawed before cooking for even results.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://magazinemeal.com/shrimp-and-grits-recipe-45-minute-southern/