Shrimp and Grits with Spicy Butter

Shrimp and grits is a beloved classic in Southern cuisine, a dish that embodies comfort and tradition. Originating from the Lowcountry of South Carolina, it's a delightful combination of creamy, rich grits paired with succulent shrimp, often served as a breakfast staple or a hearty dinner. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; it can be dressed up for a fancy occasion or enjoyed as a cozy weeknight meal.

Shrimp and Grits with Spicy Butter

Indulge in a twist on a Southern classic with this Savory Spicy Shrimp & Grits Delight. Experience the perfect harmony of creamy stone-ground grits paired with succulent shrimp, enhanced by a blend of vibrant spices like smoked paprika and cayenne pepper. This dish not only elevates comfort food but also invites creativity in the kitchen. Whether for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this recipe promises a delightful burst of flavor that will impress any palate. Dive into our step-by-step guide for preparation tips, ingredient details, and plating ideas to make your meal unforgettable.

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Ingredients

For the Grits:

1 cup stone-ground grits

4 cups water or chicken broth

1 cup milk (or cream for extra richness)

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Spicy Shrimp:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for desired spice)

1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

For the Spicy Butter:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 tablespoon hot sauce (like Tabasco or your favorite brand)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Pinch of cayenne pepper

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Grits:

- In a medium pot, bring 4 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil. Gradually stir in the stone-ground grits, reducing the heat to low.

- Cook the grits for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are creamy and thick. If using quicker-cooking grits, follow package instructions.

- Once cooked, stir in the milk, butter, cheddar cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm.

Cook the Shrimp:

- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

- Add the shrimp to the skillet, followed by the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.

- Stir in the fresh lemon juice, remove from heat, and set aside.

Make the Spicy Butter:

- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in the hot sauce, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper until well combined. Remove from heat.

Assemble the Dish:

- To serve, spoon a generous portion of the cheesy grits onto each plate. Top with the sautéed shrimp.

- Drizzle the spicy butter over the shrimp and grits for an extra kick.

- Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley.

Enjoy Your Meal:

- Serve hot and enjoy the comforting, spicy flavors of this classic dish with a twist!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 40 min | Serves 4