Before diving into the details of making easy classic shrimp and grits, let’s talk about what pairs beautifully with this comfort dish. Shrimp and grits is rich and creamy, so it’s important to balance those flavors for a delightful dining experience. Here are some great options: Crisp Garden Salad, Buttered Corn on the Cob, Collard Greens, Garlic Bread etc.
Now that you have a few ideas on sides, let’s get into the heart of our culinary journey!
What Is Easy Classic Shrimp and Grits?
At its core, easy classic shrimp and grits consists of tender shrimp cooked in a savory sauce served on a bed of creamy, cheesy grits.
The dish’s origins can be traced back to the Lowcountry of the Southern United States, blending influences from both Native American and African American cuisines. It embodies the perfect marriage of flavors: sweet, smoky, creamy, and savory.
What Does It Taste Like?
The taste of shrimp and grits is a joyous explosion in your mouth. You’ll experience flavorful, briny shrimp enhanced by smoky bacon, with a creamy, cheesy base from the grits.
The texture is luxuriously smooth, while the shrimp adds a satisfying bite. Each mouthful is comfort food at its finest; it just feels like a warm hug!
Why This Recipe Works
Delicious Simplicity: The beauty of this dish lies in its straightforward approach. Using simple, quality ingredients allows the flavors to shine. You can have a mouth-watering meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Flexibility: This recipe can easily be adapted to suit your taste. Want it spicier? Add some hot sauce! Prefer a lighter version? Cut back on the butter a bit. The possibilities are endless.
One-Pan Wonder: Everything can be cooked in one pan, which not only simplifies the cooking process but also makes cleanup easier. This is a lifesaver after a long day.
Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors from the shrimp, garnished with green onions over the creamy grits, makes for an appealing dish. Your family and friends will be impressed, no doubt!
Ingredients for Easy Classic Shrimp and Grits
Let’s gather our ingredients! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb. jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 strips bacon (or 2-3 thick-cut slices)
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth, divided
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- ¾ cup stone-ground grits
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Thinly sliced green onions, for garnish (optional)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a subtle smoky flavor)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a fresh burst of acidity)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon strips and cook until crispy. This process enhances flavor and adds that wonderful smokiness that pairs well with shrimp.
Step 2: Prepare the Grits
While the bacon is cooking, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil in a separate medium saucepan. Stir in the grits and reduce the heat to low.
Cook gently, stirring occasionally, until they are thick and creamy, about 20–25 minutes. Stir in 2 tablespoons of butter and cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp
Once the bacon is done, remove it from the pan and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat behind. Toss the shrimp into the same skillet and season them with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
After cooking the shrimp, pour in the remaining chicken broth and lemon juice. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This will create a luscious sauce packed with flavor.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
To plate, spoon the grits onto each plate, top with the sautéed shrimp and sauce, and crumble the crispy bacon over the top. Garnish with green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- Choosing Shrimp: Opt for wild-caught shrimp if possible—it’s more flavorful and sustainable.
- Cheese Options: If sharp cheddar isn’t your favorite, feel free to use Gruyère or pepper jack for a little kick.
- Prep Ahead: You can cook the grits a day in advance. Just reheat with a little milk to loosen them up.
- Bacon Backup: If you’d like, substitute turkey bacon or omit bacon entirely for a lighter dish.
- Serving Tip: This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in the microwave.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 27g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
How to Store the Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, simply place them in an airtight container and store in the fridge. They’ll keep for about 2-3 days.
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to revive the creamy texture.
Sides for Easy Classic Shrimp and Grits
To round out your meal, consider these sides:
- Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy, tangy fried green tomatoes provide a delightful crunch. They add a Southern flair that echoes the shrimp and grits.
- Cornbread: A slice of homemade cornbread, sweet and buttery, pairs excellently with the creamy grits and rich shrimp sauce.
- Pickled Vegetables: Adding a tangy crunch with pickled okra or carrots can brighten up the meal and cut through the richness.
- Roasted Asparagus: The slight bitterness of roasted asparagus complements the sweetness of the shrimp and the creaminess of the grits beautifully.
Alternative Ingredients
When cooking, sometimes you have to improvise! Here are some alternatives you might consider:
- Grits: If you don’t have stone-ground grits, quick-cooking grits or polenta will work well too.
- Butter: You can replace butter with olive oil for a dairy-free version.
- Milk: Swap out whole milk for a non-dairy alternative like almond milk or oat milk.
- Shrimp: If shrimp isn’t available, scallops or even chicken can replace them in the dish.
Conclusion
Easy classic shrimp and grits is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings warmth, comfort, and a taste of Southern tradition to your table. From its creamy grits to the smoky, tender shrimp, every bite is a celebration of flavors and culture.
Cooking this dish can be a joy, and the best part? You can customize it to suit your preferences. Whether you enjoy it plain or jazzed up with extras, shrimp and grits can easily become a staple in your kitchen.
Now, roll up your sleeves, gather those ingredients, and bring some comfort into your home. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!
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Easy Classic Shrimp And Grits – Gourmet And Food
Description
Growing up in the South, I learned early on that shrimp and grits is more than just a dish; it’s a cultural emblem that has graced family tables and restaurant menus for generations.
This dish, with its rich history, blends the coastal bounty of shrimp with the terrestrial comfort of grits. When I make shrimp and grits, it’s like rewriting a culinary love letter to my roots.
Shrimp and grits is about simplicity, flavor, and comfort. Anyone can whip it up in a jiffy, whether for a busy weeknight dinner or a special weekend brunch that’ll make you the talk of the town. Let’s embark on this delightful recipe adventure!
Ingredient
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
-
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon strips and cook until crispy. This process enhances flavor and adds that wonderful smokiness that pairs well with shrimp.
Step 2: Prepare the Grits
-
While the bacon is cooking, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil in a separate medium saucepan. Stir in the grits and reduce the heat to low.
Cook gently, stirring occasionally, until they are thick and creamy, about 20–25 minutes. Stir in 2 tablespoons of butter and cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp
-
Once the bacon is done, remove it from the pan and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat behind. Toss the shrimp into the same skillet and season them with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
-
After cooking the shrimp, pour in the remaining chicken broth and lemon juice. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This will create a luscious sauce packed with flavor.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
-
To plate, spoon the grits onto each plate, top with the sautéed shrimp and sauce, and crumble the crispy bacon over the top. Garnish with green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 450kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 22g34%
- Total Carbohydrate 36g12%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Protein 27g54%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Choosing Shrimp: Opt for wild-caught shrimp if possible—it’s more flavorful and sustainable.
- Cheese Options: If sharp cheddar isn’t your favorite, feel free to use Gruyère or pepper jack for a little kick.
- Prep Ahead: You can cook the grits a day in advance. Just reheat with a little milk to loosen them up.
- Bacon Backup: If you’d like, substitute turkey bacon or omit bacon entirely for a lighter dish.
- Serving Tip: This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in the microwave.
