Are you craving a taste of the South? This Creamy Shrimp and Grits recipe is the perfect blend of comfort and sophistication, a delicious dish that's surprisingly easy to make. It's the ultimate in Southern home cooking, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this healthy yet indulgent meal! This easy recipe is a quick dinner idea that delivers big on flavor.
Ingredients:
For the Grits:
- 1 cup coarse ground stone-ground grits
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preparing the Grits:
- Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Slowly whisk in the grits, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the grits are tender and creamy, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking the Shrimp:
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the green onions and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat to low, stir in the cheddar cheese, Old Bay seasoning, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the shrimp to the sauce and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes.
Assembling the Dish:
Spoon the creamy grits onto plates. Top with the delicious shrimp and sauce. Garnish with extra green onions or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy your homemade Southern comfort food!
Tips for Success:
- Use good quality stone-ground grits for the best flavor and texture.
- Don't overcook the shrimp; they should be cooked through but still tender.
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables to the shrimp sauce, such as mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes.
- Use different types of cheese, such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack.
- Add a splash of white wine to the shrimp sauce for extra depth of flavor.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the grits.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This creamy shrimp and grits recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. It's a great way to enjoy the flavors of the South, and it's easy enough for even beginner cooks to master. This healthy and delicious dish is sure to become a family favorite! Remember to share your culinary creations with us – we'd love to see your delicious homemade versions!