Southern Shrimp and Grits
A delightful Southern dish featuring creamy stone-ground grits paired with succulent shrimp and a savory sauce.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 45 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Southern
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal
Grits
- 1 cup stone-ground grits This is the star of the dish, providing a creamy base.
- 4 cups water Essential for cooking the grits to perfection.
- 1 teaspoon salt Enhances the flavor of the grits.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese Adds a rich, cheesy flavor to the grits.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter For a creamy finish.
- 1 pound large shrimp Peeled and deveined, these are the main protein in the dish.
- 4 slices bacon Chopped, for a smoky flavor and crunch.
- 3 cloves garlic Minced, to add depth and aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes For a touch of heat.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper To season the shrimp.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice Brightens the dish with acidity.
- 2 green onions sliced For garnish and a fresh finish.
In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once the grits are cooked, stir in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Keep warm.
In a large skillet, cook 4 slices of chopped bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels, leaving drippings in the skillet.
Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add 1 pound of shrimp, season with 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque.
Stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and the crispy bacon. Mix well.
On each plate, spoon a generous amount of the creamy grits and top with the shrimp mixture. Garnish with sliced green onions.
Calories: 450kcalProtein: 25gSodium: 800mg
Keyword comfort food, grits, shrimp