Description
Bring the flavors of the South to your table with this classic Shrimp and Grits recipe. Creamy, cheesy grits are topped with perfectly spiced roasted shrimp for a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve at your next brunch gathering!
Ingredients
For the Grits:
- Water: 3 cups
- Kosher salt: 1 teaspoon
- Uncooked quick-cooking or regular grits (not instant): ¾ cup
- Unsalted butter: 1 tablespoon
- Ground black pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese: ½ cup (about 2 ounces)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: ¼ cup (about 1 ounce), plus extra for serving
- Chopped green onions: ¼ cup (white and green parts), plus extra for garnish
For the Shrimp:
- Extra virgin olive oil: 2 teaspoons
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon
- Dried thyme: ½ teaspoon
- Dried oregano: ½ teaspoon
- Cayenne pepper: ¼ teaspoon
- Kosher salt: ¼ teaspoon
- Ground black pepper: ⅛ teaspoon
- Medium shrimp (25 count), peeled and deveined, tails on: 1 pound
Instructions
1. Make the Grits:
- In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Slowly add the grits in a thin stream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the grits thicken (about 5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter, black pepper, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and chopped green onions. Keep warm.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss gently to coat them evenly with the spice mixture.
- Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 5–6 minutes, or until pink and cooked through.
3. Assemble and Serve:
- Spoon the warm grits into serving bowls.
- Top each bowl with roasted shrimp.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped green onions. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Grits Texture: If the grits become too thick, stir in a splash of warm water or milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper for more or less heat.
- Make-Ahead Tip: The grits and shrimp can be prepared ahead of time. Reheat gently before assembling the dish.
- Customization: Add crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting and Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern