Indulge in a classic Southern dish that is sure to impress. Savory shrimp seasoned with a blend of spices, combined with creamy, cheesy grits, all topped off with crispy bacon. This dish is a perfect comfort food, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Most of these ingredients are staple pantry items, but there are two that you might need to look out for while shopping. The first is Old Bay seasoning, often used to flavor seafood, especially in Southern cuisine. It's usually found in the spice aisle. The other is grits, which are a type of ground corn. They are usually located in the cereal or baking aisle. Make sure to get the regular type and not the instant variety for the best texture.
Classic Shrimp and Grits Ingredients
Bacon: Adds a delightful crunch and rich, smoky flavor to the dish.
Onion: Adds sweetness and a bit of crunch when sautéed.
Green bell pepper: Provides a slightly bitter taste and a nice crunchy texture.
Shrimp: The main protein in this dish. Fresh or frozen can be used.
Old bay seasoning: A unique blend of herbs and spices, adding a kick to the shrimp.
Garlic powder: Adds a savory depth of flavor.
Lemon juice: Brightens up the dish with a hint of acid.
Parsley: Adds a fresh, herby note.
Chicken broth: Used as the liquid for cooking the grits, adding more flavor than just water.
Water: Makes up the rest of the liquid for cooking the grits.
Cheddar cheese: Adds a creamy, cheesy flavor to the grits.
Butter: Adds richness to the grits.
Grits: A type of ground corn, providing the base of the dish.
One reader, Elaine Dunlap says:
This classic shrimp and grits recipe is a game-changer! The creamy, cheesy grits perfectly complement the flavorful shrimp. The combination of bacon, bell peppers, and spices creates a mouthwatering dish that's a hit every time. It's a must-try for anyone who loves Southern cuisine!
Essential Techniques for Making Classic Shrimp and Grits
How to cook grits: Boil water, chicken broth, and garlic powder in a medium pot. Add grits and cook for 18 to 20 minutes until thick and creamy. Remove from heat and stir in cheese and butter until melted.
How to sauté onions and bell peppers: In a medium-sized pan, sauté chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan, leaving the drippings. Sauté onions in the bacon grease for 3 to 4 minutes or until slightly softened. Add bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3 minutes more. Remove the peppers and onions from the pan and set aside.
How to cook shrimp: Toss the shrimp with garlic powder and Old Bay seasoning. Cook in the pan for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. Add the onion mixture back in along with lemon juice and parsley.
How to garnish: Serve the shrimp mixture over the prepared grits. Garnish with crumbled bacon, parsley, and lemon wedges.
How To Make Shrimp and Grits
This combination of shrimp and grits provide a satisfying salty and briny flavor. Use meaty pieces of shrimp to provide a nice backdrop to cheese.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 4bacon,slices, chopped
- ⅓cuponion,diced
- ⅓cupgreen bell pepper,diced
- 1lbshrimp,peeled and deveined
- 1tspold bay seasoning
- ½tspgarlic powder
- 1tbsplemon juice,fresh
- 2tbspparsley,fresh, chopped
For Cheese Grits:
- 2cupschicken broth
- 2cupswater
- 1½cupscheddar cheese,shredded
- ¼cup¼ cup butter
- ½tspgarlic powder
- 1cupgrits
Instructions
-
Bring water, chicken broth, and garlic powder to a boil in a medium pot. Add grits and cook for 18 to 20 minutes or thick and creamy. Remove from heat and stir in cheese and butter until melted.
-
Meanwhile, chop bacon. Fry in a medium-sized pan until crispy. Remove from pan leaving drippings in the pan.
-
Saute onions in the bacon grease for 3 to 4 minutes or until slightly softened. Add bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3 minutes more. Remove the peppers and onions from the pan and set aside.
-
Toss the shrimp with garlic powder and Old Bay seasoning. Cook in the pan for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. Add onion mixture back in along with lemon juice and parsley.
-
Serve shrimp mixture overtop of grits. Garnish with crumbled bacon, parsley, and lemon wedges.
Nutrition
- Calories: 469.80kcal
- Fat: 28.75g
- Saturated Fat: 14.38g
- Trans Fat: 0.74g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 8.83g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.64g
- Carbohydrates: 26.78g
- Fiber: 1.61g
- Sugar: 2.37g
- Protein: 25.07g
- Cholesterol: 164.41mg
- Sodium: 888.97mg
- Calcium: 280.29mg
- Potassium: 316.69mg
- Iron: 1.50mg
- Vitamin A: 202.39µg
- Vitamin C: 10.18mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Shrimp and Grits
When cooking the shrimp, it's important not to overcook them as they can become tough and lose their succulent flavor. Shrimp cook very quickly, usually in 2 to 3 minutes per side. You'll know they're done when they turn pink and opaque. Also, using Old Bay seasoning can add a unique flavor to the shrimp, but feel free to experiment with other spices to suit your taste.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Shrimp and Grits
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and prepare the shrimp and grits seasoning in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonder: Consider cooking the shrimp and grits in the same pot to minimize cleanup and save time.
Use quick-cooking grits: Opt for quick-cooking grits to reduce the overall cooking time for the dish.
Batch cooking: Make a larger quantity of the dish and store leftovers for quick and convenient meals throughout the week.
Organize ingredients: Arrange all the necessary ingredients and utensils before starting to cook to avoid last-minute scrambling.
Substitute Ingredients For Shrimp and Grits Recipe
bacon - Substitute with pancetta: Pancetta is an Italian bacon that has a similar salty and savory flavor, but it is typically less smoky and has a slightly different texture. It can be a great substitute for bacon in shrimp and grits.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, which can add a subtle and delicate taste to the dish.
green bell pepper - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell peppers can be used as a substitute for green bell peppers, providing a slightly sweeter and fruitier flavor to the dish.
shrimp - Substitute with crawfish: Crawfish can be a delicious alternative to shrimp in this recipe, offering a similar seafood flavor and texture.
old bay seasoning - Substitute with cajun seasoning: Cajun seasoning can provide a similar blend of spices and herbs, adding a flavorful kick to the dish.
garlic powder - Substitute with minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic can be used as a substitute for garlic powder, offering a more intense and aromatic garlic flavor.
lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can provide a tangy and acidic element similar to lemon juice, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
parsley - Substitute with chives: Chives can be used as a substitute for parsley, offering a mild onion-like flavor and a pop of green color to the dish.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth, providing a flavorful base for the grits while catering to vegetarian preferences.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with gouda cheese: Gouda cheese can be used as a substitute for cheddar, offering a rich and creamy flavor with a slightly nutty undertone.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a substitute for butter to add richness and a hint of fruity flavor to the grits.
grits - Substitute with polenta: Polenta can be used as a substitute for grits, providing a similar creamy and hearty texture to the dish.
Presenting Shrimp and Grits: Tips for a Beautiful Dish
Elevate the shrimp: Arrange the shrimp in a visually appealing manner on the plate, ensuring they are the focal point of the dish. Consider layering them or arranging them in a circular pattern to create an eye-catching presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness. The vibrant green hues will contrast beautifully with the other elements on the plate.
Incorporate color contrast: Introduce a colorful element to the plate, such as a vibrant vegetable side or a drizzle of a complementary sauce, to enhance the visual appeal and create a striking contrast.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the dish to breathe visually. Avoid overcrowding and aim for a balanced, clean presentation.
Consider plate shape and size: Choose a plate that complements the dish, ensuring that it allows the components to shine without appearing crowded. The plate's shape and size should enhance the overall visual impact.
Highlight the grits: Mold the cheese grits into a neat, elegant shape using a ring mold for a polished presentation. This will add a touch of sophistication to the dish.
Add a finishing touch: Before serving, drizzle a small amount of high-quality olive oil over the shrimp and grits to impart a glossy sheen and a subtle depth of flavor.
Emphasize texture: Incorporate a textural element, such as a delicate sprinkle of crispy bacon crumbles, to provide a satisfying contrast to the creamy grits and succulent shrimp.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Shrimp and Grits
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for making sauces, dips, and for quickly chopping vegetables.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients, whether it's for mixing batters, marinating meats, or tossing salads. It comes in various sizes and materials to suit different cooking needs.
- Skillet: A skillet, also known as a frying pan, is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It's a versatile tool for cooking a wide range of dishes.
- Whisk: A whisk is a kitchen utensil used for whipping, beating, and stirring ingredients. It's commonly used for blending dry ingredients, whisking eggs, and making sauces.
- Saucepan: A saucepan is a deep cooking pan with a handle and straight sides, ideal for making sauces, boiling pasta, and simmering soups. It's a staple tool for stovetop cooking.
- Chef's knife: A chef's knife is a multipurpose knife with a broad blade that tapers to a point, suitable for a variety of kitchen tasks such as chopping, slicing, and dicing. It's an essential tool for food preparation.
Storing and Freezing Shrimp and Grits: A Guide
- To store leftover shrimp and grits, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the grits to help restore their creamy texture. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- For best results, store the shrimp and grits separately. Place the shrimp mixture in one airtight container and the grits in another. This will help maintain the texture of both components.
- To freeze, portion the cooled shrimp mixture into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- It is not recommended to freeze the grits, as they may become grainy and lose their creamy consistency when thawed and reheated. However, if you must freeze them, portion the cooled grits into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little chicken broth or water to help restore the texture.
- When reheating frozen shrimp, place them in a covered dish and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. Avoid overcooking, as this can make the shrimp tough and rubbery.
How To Reheat Leftover Shrimp and Grits
Stovetop method: reheat the grits in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to loosen the consistency. In a separate pan, sauté the shrimp mixture until heated through. Serve the warm shrimp over the hot grits.
Microwave method: place the grits in a microwave-safe bowl and add a splash of chicken broth or water. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until heated through. Microwave the shrimp mixture in a separate bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until warm. Serve the shrimp over the grits.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the grits in an oven-safe dish and add a splash of chicken broth or water. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Reheat the shrimp mixture in a separate oven-safe dish, covered with foil, for 10-15 minutes or until warm. Serve the shrimp over the grits.
Slow cooker method: combine the grits and shrimp mixture in a slow cooker. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the consistency if needed. Cover and cook on low for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Adjust the seasoning if necessary and serve hot.
Sous vide method: place the grits and shrimp mixture in separate vacuum-sealed bags. Preheat a sous vide water bath to 140°F (60°C). Submerge the bags in the water bath and cook for 30-45 minutes, until heated through. Remove the bags from the water bath, carefully open them, and serve the shrimp over the grits.
Interesting Trivia About Shrimp and Grits
Shrimp and grits is a classic dish originating from the Southern United States. It is a popular comfort food that combines the rich flavors of creamy grits with the savory taste of shrimp. This dish is often enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, and it has become a staple in Southern cuisine. The combination of creamy grits and flavorful shrimp makes it a versatile and delicious meal that can be enjoyed in various settings.
Is Making Shrimp and Grits at Home Cost-Effective?
This shrimp and grits recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Shrimp is a relatively affordable protein, and the ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens. The combination of shrimp, bacon, and grits creates a flavorful and satisfying dish. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25, making it a budget-friendly option. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be 8/10 for its affordability and delicious taste.
Is This Shrimp and Grits Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
The classic shrimp and grits recipe, while undeniably delicious, does have some aspects that could be considered unhealthy. The use of bacon and its drippings, along with the generous amount of cheese and butter in the grits, contributes to a high saturated fat content. Additionally, the recipe lacks a significant amount of vegetables, which are essential for a balanced meal.
However, there are some positive aspects to this recipe. Shrimp is a lean protein source that is low in calories and high in essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and selenium. The use of onions and bell peppers adds some vegetable content and provides a good source of vitamin C and other antioxidants.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of bacon used or replace it with a leaner protein like turkey bacon
- Use low-fat cheese or reduce the amount of cheese in the grits
- Replace some of the butter with a healthier fat like olive oil
- Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish by adding more bell peppers, onions, or other vegetables like spinach or tomatoes
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the overall sodium content
- Serve the shrimp and grits with a side salad or other vegetable-based side dish to increase the overall nutrient content of the meal
By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the classic flavors of shrimp and grits while also making the dish more nutritionally balanced and healthier overall.
Editor's Take: My Honest Opinion on This Shrimp and Grits Recipe
The classic shrimp and grits recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The creamy and cheesy grits provide a comforting base for the perfectly seasoned shrimp, while the bacon adds a smoky crunch. The addition of onions, bell peppers, and lemon juice brings a refreshing and vibrant element to the dish. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful balance of savory and tangy flavors, making it a timeless and satisfying dish for any occasion.
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Why trust this Shrimp and Grits Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying meal. The shrimp is seasoned with a perfect blend of old bay seasoning and garlic powder, enhancing its natural taste. The creamy cheese grits are made with rich cheddar cheese and savory chicken broth, providing a comforting base for the dish. The addition of crispy bacon adds a smoky crunch, while the sautéed onions and bell peppers contribute a delightful sweetness. This recipe promises a harmonious blend of ingredients that will surely impress your taste buds.
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