Description
These Shrimp and Scallion Grit Cups with a Creamy Cheese Center are a delightful Southern-inspired appetizer. Creamy cheddar grits surround a hidden pocket of cream cheese, topped with flavorful shrimp and scallions. Perfect for brunch or as a party snack.
Ingredients
Grit Cups:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Creamy Cheese Center:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed
- 1/2 pound small shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Nonstick cooking spray
Shrimp Topping:
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F and spray a 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cook Grits: Boil water with salt, stir in grits, cook until creamy. Stir in butter and cheddar cheese. Let cool slightly.
- Assemble Cups: Spoon grits into muffin cups, add cream cheese cubes, cover with more grits. Sauté shrimp, scallions, paprika, salt, and pepper. Top each cup with shrimp mixture.
- Bake: Bake for 15–18 minutes until set and golden. Cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can prepare these ahead and reheat in the oven.
- For extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne to the grits or shrimp.
- Great for parties or brunch gatherings.
