The holidays are a time for togetherness, laughter, and of course, delicious food! This year, ditch the usual holiday fare and impress your guests with a taste of Southern charm. This creamy shrimp and grits recipe is not only incredibly flavorful but also surprisingly easy to make, making it the perfect centerpiece for your holiday gatherings or a comforting weeknight meal. It's a delicious dish embodying the best of Southern cooking – hearty, comforting, and bursting with flavor. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals, perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled bacon for extra flavor and texture
Instructions:
Preparing the Grits:
- Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Slowly whisk in the grits, ensuring no lumps form.
- 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 butter, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and keep warm.
Cooking the Shrimp:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp and Cajun seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Don't overcook!
- If using bacon, cook it until crispy before adding the shrimp to the pan. Crumble and set aside before adding to the finished dish.
Assembling the Dish:
- Spoon the creamy grits onto plates or in a large serving bowl.
- Top with the cooked shrimp, green onions, and parsley.
- If using, sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top for added texture and flavor.
Tips for the Best Creamy Shrimp & Grits:
- Use good quality grits: Stone-ground grits will give you the best flavor and texture.
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. Cook just until pink and opaque.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You might want to add more Cajun seasoning, salt, or pepper.
- Get creative with toppings: Add other vegetables, such as chopped bell peppers or tomatoes, for extra flavor and color. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish beautifully.
Variations:
- Spicy Shrimp & Grits: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the shrimp while cooking for an extra kick.
- Andouille Sausage & Shrimp Grits: Add some sliced Andouille sausage to the skillet with the shrimp for a smoky, savory twist.
- Vegetarian Grits: Omit the shrimp and add sauteed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables instead.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This Southern Living Holiday recipe is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients transformed into a truly special dish. It's a comforting, flavorful, and relatively healthy meal perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the deliciousness and the warm Southern hospitality it brings to your table!