Easy Classic Shrimp and Grits
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups chicken stock/broth
divided
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
divided
- 3/4 cup stone-ground grits
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese
shredded
- 4 strips bacon)
(or 2-3 thick-cut slices
- 1 lb. jumbo shrimp
peeled and deveined
- to tastekosher salt
- to tasteblack pepper
- thinly sliced green onions)
for garnish (optional
Directions
- 1
Bring 2 cups of the chicken broth, the milk (2 cups), 3 tablespoons of the butter, and a pinch of salt to a gentle boil in a medium sized pot. Add the grits and whisk together. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until grits are soft and creamy, whisking every few minutes. Cover and set aside off heat - they will finish softening up while they sit.
- 2
Cook the 4 bacon strips until crispy in a nonstick or cast iron skillet. Set aside on a paper towel lined plate. Once cool, chop into small pieces.
- 3
Drain all but 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease from the skillet.
- 4
Rinse the shrimp with cold water and pat dry. Season with salt and pepper, and any other spices you want to add (optional). Cook in the bacon grease until only just cooked- about 2 minutes per side.
- 5
Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and 1/2 cup of chicken broth to the shrimp and stir until melted and broth is heated.
- 6
Stir in the cheese to the grits (1 cup) until melted.
- 7
Serve the shrimp mixture over the grits, making sure to spoon some of the liquid from the skillet over the grits, and sprinkle with the bacon pieces and sliced green onions, if using. Serve immediately.
Easy Classic Shrimp and Grits
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 458 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving a taste of the South that’s both comforting and quick? This Easy Classic Shrimp and Grits recipe delivers an authentic, delicious gluten-free meal right to your table in just 30 minutes. It's the perfect way to enjoy classic Southern comfort food without the fuss.
What sets this classic Shrimp and Grits apart is its perfect balance of creamy, rich stone-ground grits with succulent jumbo shrimp, all bathed in an incredibly yummy butter sauce. The addition of crispy bacon infuses a delightful smoky depth, making this traditional dish an instant favorite that feels both indulgent and surprisingly simple to prepare for any night of the week.
Prepare for a truly satisfying experience. You’ll be greeted with tender, perfectly cooked jumbo shrimp nestled atop a bed of velvety, cheesy grits, rich with sharp cheddar. The savory depth from the bacon and a hint of freshness from optional green onions complete this hearty, naturally gluten-free dish. Each spoonful offers a harmonious blend of textures and deeply savory flavors that evoke the warmth and hospitality of a Southern kitchen, making it a truly delicious and comforting meal.
Customization & Variations
Feel free to adjust this classic to your pantry and preferences. While bacon adds a delightful smoky depth, you could use pancetta for a different flavor profile. For the cheese, experiment with white cheddar or Monterey Jack if you prefer a milder profile than sharp cheddar, though the classic sharp cheddar is highly recommended for its robust flavor.
This Easy Classic Shrimp and Grits recipe is ideal for a comforting weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough to impress guests at a casual gathering. Serve it as a standalone star, letting its rich flavors shine.