It’s hard to believe how comforting, creamy and flavorful these Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits are. Topped with spicy sautéed shrimp and based with a beautifully creamy cheesy blanket of Southern grits, this easy meal is sure to please to be a major crowd-pleaser! Dairy-free + Gluten-free options available.
I can never eat Southern food and not include creamy grits in the mix, whether it be for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Grits are a staple at most Southern family tables and I remember vividly watching my aunt whip together the whole works for breakfast---including grits, eggs, bacon, sausage, and whatever else her hands could grab to make the meal that much more DELICIOUS!
While there are dozens of ways to cook grits, this Southern-style version is my family’s go-to. I think you’ll love it as much as I do and when topped with these spicy cajun shrimp, you'll be licking all ten fingers and toes. Haha.
Start this recipe by making the simple Cajun seasoning. This is a spice blend you’ll want to keep on hand to season everything from One-Pot Cajun Pumpkin Alfredo Pasta to Cajun Veggie Pumpkin Pizza. The ingredients are simple and you probably already have them at home.
To make your seasoning, combine:
Together, these herbs and spices strike the perfect balance of savory and fresh with a bit of smoky heat.
#1: Heat + Soak Grits: Much like cashews, this allows grits to soften, cook faster, and become more creamy.
#2: Boil grits for 20-30 minutes uncovered, but make sure to stir regularly to avoid lumps.
#3: It’s all about adding milk, water, + heavy cream with cheese for the ultimate creaminess.
#4: Don’t be afraid to season your girts. It amplifies the flavors more.
#5: Low + slow is always best. This allows the grits to slowly release their starches for a decadent, silky texture.
It’s easy to make.
Full of flavor.
Ultra Creamy!
Minimal ingredients required.
Easy to store leftovers and re-purpose.
The epitome of comfort food for ANY season.
Did I mention absolutely delicious?!
If you want to add some greens to these shrimp + grits, you certainly can. My article, Our Top 12 Favorite Healthy Green Leafy Vegetables shares a list of great greens! Off the top—-kale, spinach, or collard greens make great additions. Also, roasted broccolini is one of my faves to add.
Grits are at their best when they’re hot and soft. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To serve, reheat the grits on the stove or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until soft. If necessary, add a dash more milk, cream, or water to help loosen them up. You can store leftover shrimp in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days.
If you make these Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits, tag @orchidsnsweettea_ on Instagram and hashtag it #orchidsandsweettea
Tag @orchidsnsweettea_ on Instagram and hashtag it #orchidsandsweettea
Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits.
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