Description
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of the South with this Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits recipe. Creamy cheddar cheese grits serve as a luscious bed for perfectly seasoned shrimp in a decadent sauce. This dish is a true Southern classic that will satisfy your cravings for a hearty and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the grits:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water (or half water and half milk)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the shrimp:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the grits: In a saucepan, bring water and salt to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes until thickened. Stir in heavy cream, cheese, and butter until smooth and creamy. Keep warm.
- Cook the shrimp: In a skillet, cook bacon until crisp. Remove bacon and set aside. Season shrimp and cook in the skillet until pink. Remove and set aside. Sauté garlic, pour in chicken broth, add cream and lemon juice, then simmer until thickened. Return shrimp and bacon to the pan, stir to coat and heat through.
- Serve: Serve the creamy shrimp over hot cheesy grits. Garnish with parsley and black pepper.
Notes
- Stone-ground grits offer the best texture, but quick grits can be used for a faster version.
- Add sautéed bell peppers or a splash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 215mg
