Shrimp and Grits is a classic Southern dish that has become popular across the United States. This hearty and delicious meal is perfect for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a fancy brunch. In this article, we'll share our favorite Shrimp and Grits recipe, along with tips on how to make it perfectly every time.
Ingredients
To make our Shrimp and Grits recipe, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Directions
1. In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Toss the shrimp in the spice mixture until well-coated.
2. In a large saucepan, bring the broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, for 20-25 minutes or until the grits are tender and have absorbed all the liquid. Stir in the butter and cheddar cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. While the grits are cooking, cook the bacon in a large skillet until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Add the onion and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté until soft and slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute more.
4. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
5. To serve, spoon the grits into bowls and top with the shrimp mixture. Sprinkle with the cooked bacon and chopped parsley. Enjoy!
Tips
- Use high-quality stone-ground grits for the best flavor and texture.
- Be sure to constantly stir the grits while cooking to prevent clumping or sticking.
- For a spicier flavor, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the shrimp mixture.
- Swap the shrimp for another protein, like chicken or sausage, for a different twist on this classic dish.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or biscuits to sop up the delicious sauce.
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