Description
This Easy Shrimp and Grits recipe brings a classic Southern comfort food to your table in just 30 minutes. Creamy, cheesy stone-ground grits are paired perfectly with spicy, garlic-infused sautéed shrimp for a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Grits
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
For the Shrimp
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
- Boil Liquids: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water and 2 cups of milk to a gentle boil, preparing the liquid base for the grits.
- Cook Grits: Slowly whisk in 1 cup stone-ground grits to prevent lumps, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring often, for 20-25 minutes until thick and creamy.
- Add Butter and Cheese: Stir in 1 tablespoon butter and 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth, then cover and keep warm.
- Season Shrimp: In a bowl, toss 1 pound large shrimp with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to evenly coat the shrimp with flavors.
- Cook Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until they turn opaque and are cooked through.
- Serve: Spoon creamy grits into bowls, top with cooked shrimp and any pan juices from the skillet, then garnish with 1 tablespoon chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
Notes
- Use stone-ground grits for the best creamy texture; quick grits can be substituted but the cooking time will be shorter.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to control the spice level according to your preference.
- For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream to the grits along with the milk.
- Ensure shrimp is peeled and deveined for ease of eating and better texture.
- Grits can be kept warm on very low heat but stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
