Authentic Southern Shrimp and Grits
A comforting dish that combines creamy stone-ground grits with perfectly seasoned shrimp, capturing the essence of Southern culinary tradition.
Ingredients
For the Grits
- 1 cup stone-ground grits Choose high-quality stone-ground grits for the ultimate creamy texture.
- 4 cups chicken broth Adds immense flavor; substitute with vegetable broth for vegetarian option.
- 3 tablespoons butter Room temperature for easy blending.
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated Look for extra sharp for more flavor.
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined Use the freshest shrimp possible—preferably wild-caught.
- 2 tablespoons butter Adds richness to the shrimp mixture.
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped Sweat until translucent for sweet flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced For aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Adds depth of flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper Adjust to taste for desired heat.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste Essential for seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped Completes the dish beautifully.
Instructions
Prepare the Grits
- Bring 4 cups of chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat.
- Gradually whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits to prevent lumps. Once combined, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes until grits thicken to a creamy consistency.
- Once thickened, stir in 3 tablespoons of butter and 1 cup of grated sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Set aside on low heat to keep warm.
Cook the Shrimp
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant and translucent to create a savory base.
Sauté the Shrimp
- Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Sauté for 3-4 minutes until shrimp turn pink and opaque, being careful not to overcook to maintain tenderness.
Assemble & Serve
- Serve the hot shrimp generously over a bed of creamy grits.
- Sprinkle with sliced green onions and chopped parsley for fresh color and flavor.
- Enjoy your Authentic Southern Shrimp and Grits!
Notes
For extra creamy grits, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end. Leftovers can be stored for up to 3 days in an airtight container.