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Shrimp & Grits is a quintessential Southern dish that has charmed palates across the United States and beyond. This beloved meal combines creamy, rich grits with succulent shrimp, often enhanced by a medley of seasonings and spices that evoke the comforting essence of Southern cooking. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast staple, a cozy dinner, or a special occasion dish, Shrimp & Grits offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that can warm the heart and satisfy the soul.

Classic Shrimp & Grits – A Southern Favorite!

Discover the rich flavors of Southern cuisine with this Savory Shrimp & Grits Delight recipe. This comforting meal features creamy, stone-ground grits paired with succulent shrimp, enhanced by Cajun spices. Learn how to achieve the perfect texture in your grits and create a savory shrimp mixture that brings everything together. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious balance of flavors that warms the heart and delights the palate.
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Ingredients
  

For the Grits:

1 cup stone-ground white corn grits

4 cups water (or chicken broth for added flavor)

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

2 tablespoons butter

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Shrimp:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

4 slices of bacon, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 bell pepper (red or green), finely chopped

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Hot sauce (optional, for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Grits: In a medium saucepan, bring water (or chicken broth) to a boil. Gradually whisk in the stone-ground grits, reduce the heat to low, and stir occasionally. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, until the grits are thick and creamy, adding water as needed. Once done, stir in heavy cream, cheddar cheese, butter, and season with salt and pepper. Set aside, keeping warm.

    Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.

      Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

        Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet, sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, and cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes. Carefully stir in lemon juice and the crispy bacon. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to combine the flavors.

          Serve: Spoon a generous amount of cheesy grits onto plates, top with the shrimp mixture, and garnish with chopped green onions. Drizzle with hot sauce if desired.

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 40 minutes | 4 servings