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–+ servings
Melany

Easy Shrimp & Grits - Creamy, Flavorful & Quick!

Indulge in this Southern classic: creamy, cheesy grits topped with succulent shrimp, smoky bacon, and a zesty sauce. This quick and flavorful dish is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal effort.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Grits:
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 cups water
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • 1 cup corn grits
  • 4 oz. shredded yellow cheddar about 1 cup
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter cubed
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Shrimp & Sauce:
  • 10 oz. thick-cut bacon sliced
  • 1 lb. large shrimp peeled, deveined, tail-on
  • 2 cloves garlic finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • ¾ cup vegetable broth
  • Juice of ½ lemon
  • 4 scallions thinly sliced, plus more for garnish

Method
 

Prepare the Grits:
  1. Bring the chicken broth and water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
  2. Season with kosher salt, then slowly whisk in the grits.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes, whisking frequently to avoid lumps.
  4. Stir in cheddar cheese and butter until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook the Bacon:
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Cook the bacon slices until crispy, about 8 minutes.
  3. Transfer to a cutting board, chop into small pieces, and reserve 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.
Season and Cook the Shrimp:
  1. Toss the shrimp with garlic, oregano, paprika, and a pinch of salt.
  2. Heat the reserved bacon fat over medium heat.
  3. Add the shrimp and cook for 4–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until pink and cooked through.
  4. Transfer to a plate.
Make the Sauce:
  1. In the same skillet, add the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes until it darkens slightly.
  2. Whisk in the vegetable broth and simmer for 4–5 minutes until the sauce thickens and reduces by half.
  3. Stir in the cooked shrimp and toss to coat. Add lemon juice and scallions for a fresh finish.
Assemble the Dish:
  1. Divide the grits among serving bowls or plates.
  2. Top with the shrimp and sauce.
  3. Sprinkle crispy bacon and additional scallions over the top.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the shrimp seasoning.
  • Use instant grits for a quicker option but adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.
  • Substitute turkey bacon or plant-based bacon for a lighter or vegetarian alternative.

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