Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Shrimp and Scallion Grit Cups with Creamy Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.8 from 70 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 small cups
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Southern-Inspired
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

These Shrimp and Scallion Grit Cups with Creamy Cheese are a comforting Southern-inspired appetizer or small plate featuring stone-ground grits cooked to creamy perfection with sharp cheddar and cream cheese, topped with sautéed paprika-spiced shrimp and fresh scallions. Perfect for entertaining or a cozy starter.

Ingredients

Grits

  • 1 cup stone-ground grits
  • 4 cups water (or 2 cups water + 2 cups milk for extra creaminess)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed

Shrimp & Toppings

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 scallions, thinly sliced (white and green parts separated)
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh parsley or additional scallions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Grits: In a medium saucepan, bring the water (or water and milk) and salt to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits, then reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring frequently, until thick and creamy. Stir in butter, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and cubed cream cheese until fully melted and smooth. Remove from heat and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Shrimp: While the grits cook, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the shrimp with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and the white parts of the scallions to the skillet. Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
  3. Assemble the Cups: Spoon the creamy cheesy grits into small cups or ramekins. Top each serving with a few sautéed shrimp, sprinkle with the green scallion tops, and garnish with fresh parsley or more scallions if desired. Serve warm as an appetizer or small plate.

Notes

  • For added heat, toss shrimp with a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes before cooking.
  • Grits can be made ahead of time and reheated gently with a splash of milk or broth to loosen them.
  • Use stone-ground grits for best texture and flavor.
  • This recipe easily scales to serve more or fewer guests.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/shrimp-and-scallion-grit-cups-with-creamy-cheese-recipe/