Shrimp and Grits – Family Style

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Shrimp and Grits – Family Style is the ultimate comfort food that brings the flavors of the South right to your dinner table! This hearty dish features succulent shrimp sautéed in a spicy, rich sauce, served over a creamy bed of grits, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. It’s easy to whip up, ensuring that you can enjoy a delightful dining experience without a fuss!

Shrimp and Grits - Family Style PIN

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Comforting & Flavorful. This Shrimp and Grits recipe combines the succulent taste of shrimp with the creamy goodness of grits, creating a perfectly balanced meal that everyone will adore.
  • Simple to Prepare. With straightforward steps and easily accessible ingredients, you can have this Southern classic on your table in no time!
  • Adaptable for Any Occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, Shrimp and Grits fits right in, providing a delicious experience that’s sure to impress.
  • Crowd-Pleaser. Loved by both kids and adults, it’s a great way to introduce younger family members to Southern cuisine!

Ingredients for Shrimp and Grits

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Shrimp: Fresh or frozen, peeled, and deveined shrimp are key here for ideal flavor and texture.
  • Chicken Broth: Adds richness to the grits and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
  • Grits: Use stone-ground yellow grits for the best texture; they turn creamy and delicious when cooked properly.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a flavorful kick to the grits, making them luscious and irresistible.
  • Bacon: Cooked and chopped bacon adds a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the shrimp and grits.
  • Green Onions: For garnish and a touch of fresh flavor, green onions bring brightness to the dish.

How to Make Shrimp and Grits

  1. Cook the grits by combining them with chicken broth and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and stir constantly until thickened, about 20-25 minutes.
  2. While the grits are cooking, sauté the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
  3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
  4. Incorporate the cooked grits with shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. To serve, layer creamy grits in shallow bowls, top with sautéed shrimp, and sprinkle bacon and chopped green onions over the top.

Tips for Making Shrimp and Grits

  • Use Quality Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will elevate this dish exponentially, but frozen shrimp works fine if thawed correctly.
  • Watch Your Grits: Stir frequently to prevent lumps and ensure the creamiest texture possible.
  • Spice it Up: Feel free to add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the shrimp for an extra kick!

Make-Ahead Instructions

  • Cook the grits ahead of time; simply reheat with a little extra chicken broth when ready to serve.
  • Sauté the shrimp in advance and store in the refrigerator; warm them through before serving over the grits.

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy, simply reheat gently on the stovetop.

Freezing Shrimp and Grits

  • While grits can be frozen, it’s best to freeze the shrimp separately to maintain texture.
  • Store each component in airtight containers and consume within 1-2 months for best quality.

Reheating Shrimp and Grits

  • Reheat the grits on medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth for creaminess.
  • Warm the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat, ensuring not to overcook them again.

Serving Suggestions

FAQs

Question1

Can I use instant grits for this recipe?

Question2

Yes, you can, but they may not provide as rich a flavor as stone-ground grits.

Question3

How spicy is this dish?

Question4

You can control the spice by adjusting or eliminating the cayenne pepper in the shrimp.

Question5

What can I serve with shrimp and grits?

Crispy cornbread or collard greens make great side dishes.

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