Shrimp Cheddar Grits
Treat yourself to Southern comfort food at its finest with this rich and indulgent Shrimp Cheddar Grits recipe. Perfectly seasoned shrimp, sautéed with hints of garlic, smoked paprika, and a splash of zesty lemon juice, are served over creamy, cheddar-infused grits for a dish that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful. The combination of sharp cheddar, buttery grits, and a touch of heavy cream creates an irresistibly luscious base, while the finishing drizzle of garlicky pan sauce ties everything together beautifully. Ready in just 40 minutes, this easy yet elegant recipe is ideal for a cozy weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing brunch. Bursting with bold flavors and a velvety texture, Shrimp Cheddar Grits is sure to become your new comfort food favorite.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 cup quick-cooking grits
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 scallions (sliced thin)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
Instructions
In a medium pot, bring the chicken or vegetable stock to a boil over medium-high heat.
Slowly whisk in the quick-cooking grits, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent lumps.
Once the grits thicken, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, heavy cream, 2 tablespoons of butter, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Keep the grits warm over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt and black pepper.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
Stir in the lemon juice and sliced scallions, cooking for an additional minute to combine flavors.
To assemble, divide the cheesy grits evenly among 4 bowls. Top each serving with the cooked shrimp and drizzle the pan sauce over the top.
Garnish with extra scallions or a pinch of smoked paprika, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3149 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 187.8 g | 241% | |
| Saturated Fat | 104.2 g | 521% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1370 mg | 457% | |
| Sodium | 7483 mg | 325% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 195.7 g | 71% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.7 g | 17% | |
| Total Sugars | 5.1 g | ||
| Protein | 161.4 g | 323% | |
| Vitamin D | 20.9 mcg | 104% | |
| Calcium | 1074 mg | 83% | |
| Iron | 14.4 mg | 80% | |
| Potassium | 2008 mg | 43% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
