Description
Experience the bold flavors of the South with this Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits recipe. Creamy stone-ground grits simmered in chicken broth and enriched with heavy cream and butter, topped with spicy Cajun-seasoned shrimp sautéed with crispy bacon, bell pepper, onion, and garlic. The perfect hearty and comforting meal with a spicy kick and savory depth.
Ingredients
Grits
- 1 cup grits (preferably stone-ground)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Shrimp and Toppings
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Green onions, sliced for garnish
- Red pepper flakes for added heat (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Grits: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Simmer the grits for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are thick and creamy.
- Enrich the Grits: Once the grits are cooked, stir in the heavy cream and 2 tablespoons of butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep the grits warm while you prepare the shrimp.
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it is crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet, but leave the drippings in the pan to add flavor to the shrimp and vegetables.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add olive oil to the skillet with the bacon drippings. Sauté the diced bell pepper and onion for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Cook the Shrimp: Season the peeled shrimp with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque.
- Combine Bacon and Shrimp: Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and stir it together with the shrimp and vegetables to combine all the flavors well.
- Serve: Spoon the warm, creamy grits into bowls. Top each serving with the spicy shrimp and bacon mixture, including any flavorful juices left in the skillet.
- Garnish: Sprinkle sliced green onions and, if you like extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes on top before serving.
Notes
- For best results, use stone-ground grits for a creamier, more authentic texture.
- If you prefer less spice, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
- Can substitute chicken broth with water for a lighter flavor.
- To make it dairy-free, substitute heavy cream and butter with coconut milk and dairy-free butter alternatives.
- Ensure shrimp is cooked just until pink to avoid toughness.
