cheesy shrimp and grits recipe

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The Best cheesy shrimp and grits recipe

I’m so excited to share this cheesy shrimp and grits recipe with you all. I’ve been making it for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends. The dish originated in the Southern United States, where it’s a staple breakfast or brunch item.

The creamy cheese sauce, tender shrimp, and comforting grits come together to create a flavor sensation that’s hard to resist. I love how the cheesy sauce coats each bite, making it feel like a decadent treat. But don’t worry, this recipe is actually quite healthy, thanks to the lean protein from the shrimp and the whole grain goodness of the grits.

My kids adore this dish, and they always ask for seconds (and sometimes even thirds!) It’s perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal. I’ve served it at family gatherings, potlucks, and even as a breakfast option on lazy Sundays.

The best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make! Just throw all the ingredients in a skillet, cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and serve over those lovely grits.

Simple as can be. And don’t even get me started on how much I love using my cast-iron skillet – it adds such a nice crustiness to the bottom of the dish.

Cheesy Shrimp and Grits

4.9 from 1658 votes

A classic Southern comfort dish featuring creamy, cheesy grits topped with succulent shrimp in a savory sauce. This recipe combines the rich flavors of sharp cheddar and smoky paprika for a satisfying meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 480 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Grits

1 cup stone-ground grits
4 cups water
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

For the Shrimp

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Salt and black pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Slowly whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 20 minutes until the grits are thick and tender.
3Stir 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter into the cooked grits until fully incorporated.
4Remove the saucepan from the heat and fold in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth, then cover to keep warm.
5Pat 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and black pepper.
6Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
7Add the seasoned shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
8Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate and set aside.
9Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add 4 minced garlic cloves, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper.
10Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, then pour in 1/4 cup of chicken broth and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
11Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce for 1 minute until heated through.
12Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, then serve immediately over the warm cheesy grits.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan
Large skillet
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 480 kcal🧈Total Fat: 24g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 220mg🧂Sodium: 890mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

For extra flavor, add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of crumbled bacon on top. Stone-ground grits provide the best texture, but quick-cooking grits can be used with adjusted cooking time.

Watch Video Of How Cheesy Shrimp and Grits Works

This cheesy shrimp and grits recipe is my go-to when I need something that feels special but does not keep me in the kitchen all day.

It works for a casual Sunday breakfast or a family gathering because everyone can serve themselves and the pot of grits stretches easily for a crowd.

Creamy, cheesy, and topped with seasoned shrimp, it is the kind of dish people ask me to make again.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Shrimp and Grits

Q: What type of cheese should I use?

I like to use a combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheese for this recipe – it gives it a nice sharpness and depth of flavor. You can also use other types of cheese if you prefer; just keep in mind that they might change the flavor profile slightly.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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