Ultimate Southern Shrimp and Grits

Southern cuisine is more than just a collection of recipes; it is a vibrant tapestry woven from the rich history and cultural influences of the American South. This culinary tradition reflects the region's diverse heritage, where Native American, African, and European influences converge to create unique flavors and comforting dishes that tell a story. Among these beloved recipes, few are as iconic and cherished as Shrimp and Grits.

Discover the essence of Southern cuisine with this Ultimate Southern Shrimp and Grits recipe. This dish combines succulent shrimp, creamy stone-ground grits, and a medley of flavorful ingredients, all steeped in rich culinary tradition. Learn about the importance of each component, from fresh shrimp to smoky bacon, and follow our step-by-step guide to master this comforting classic. Perfect for impressing family and friends, this recipe celebrates the heart of Southern cooking.

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Ingredients

For the Grits:

1 cup stone-ground grits

4 cups water

1 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

For the Shrimp:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

4 strips of thick-cut bacon, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, diced

1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

2 tablespoons lemon juice

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Salt and pepper to taste

Hot sauce (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Prepare the Grits:

- In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil.

- Slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.

- Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

- Once the grits are thickened and creamy, stir in the heavy cream, butter, and cheddar cheese. Adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly cracked black pepper as desired. Keep warm.

Cook the Shrimp:

- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.

- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper to the bacon fat, cooking until softened (about 3-4 minutes).

- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

- Add the halved cherry tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and shrimp to the skillet. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes.

- Squeeze in the lemon juice and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble:

- Serve the creamy grits in bowls, topped generously with the shrimp mixture. Sprinkle the crispy bacon and chopped parsley on top for a burst of flavor and color.

- Drizzle with hot sauce if preferred and serve immediately.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 4 servings