Savory Southern Shrimp Grits (Print Format)

Tender shrimp seasoned with Cajun spices served on creamy stone-ground grits with smoky bacon and cheddar cheese.

# Ingredients:

→ Seafood

01 - 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

→ Grits and Dairy

02 - 1 cup stone-ground grits
03 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
04 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
05 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

→ Liquids

06 - 2 cups chicken broth
07 - 1 cup water

→ Meat

08 - 4 slices thick-cut bacon

→ Vegetables and Aromatics

09 - 1 small onion, diced
10 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Spices and Seasonings

11 - 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
12 - 1/2 tsp paprika
13 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish

14 - Chopped fresh parsley

# Steps:

01 - Bring chicken broth and water to a rolling boil in a saucepan. Slowly whisk in grits to prevent lumps. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, until thick and creamy, about 20-25 minutes.
02 - Stir in butter until melted. Gradually add heavy cream while stirring. Add shredded cheddar cheese in small amounts, stirring until fully melted. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and keep warm.
03 - Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally. Transfer bacon to paper towels. Reserve 1-2 tablespoons bacon fat in skillet.
04 - Add diced onion to reserved bacon fat and cook over medium heat until softened and beginning to caramelize, about 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds, avoiding burning.
05 - Add shrimp in a single layer to skillet. Season evenly with Cajun seasoning, paprika, and black pepper. Cook 2-3 minutes until underside pink and curling. Flip and cook another 2 minutes until opaque. Remove from heat.
06 - Crumble cooled bacon and stir into shrimp mixture. Spoon warm grits into bowls, forming a well in the center. Top with shrimp and pan juices. Garnish with chopped parsley.

# Tips:

01 - Stone-ground grits provide superior texture but require longer cooking. Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent scorching.
02 - Pat shrimp dry before cooking for optimal sear and flavor.
03 - Allow cheddar cheese to reach room temperature before adding to grits for smooth melting.

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