Description
Carolina Shrimp and Grits is a comforting Southern classic that combines succulent shrimp with creamy, buttery grits. This dish offers a delightful blend of flavors, perfect for transforming ordinary meals into memorable culinary experiences. With its rich sauce and cheesy grits, this recipe guarantees to impress your family and friends. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, Carolina Shrimp and Grits delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 cup aged cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 slices bacon
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Slowly whisk in grits and reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in butter, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese until smooth.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy; reserve grease.
- Sauté garlic in reserved bacon grease, then add shrimp seasoned with Cajun seasoning. Cook until shrimp are pink.
- Finish with lemon juice and serve over creamy grits topped with bacon bits and chopped green onions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing/Boiling
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, substitute regular grits with cheesy cheddar grits. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added texture. For a vegetarian version, replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini.