Shrimp and Cheesy Grits with Bacon: A Southern Comfort Food Delight
Shrimp and cheesy grits is a classic Southern dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. This recipe elevates the traditional version by adding crispy bacon for extra richness and smoky flavor. It’s perfect for a weekend brunch, a cozy weeknight dinner, or even a special occasion. This shrimp and cheesy grits with bacon recipe will guide you through each step, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal.
## Why This Recipe Works
* **Flavor Combination:** The saltiness of the bacon, the sweetness of the shrimp, and the creamy, cheesy grits create a symphony of flavors that are simply irresistible.
* **Texture Contrast:** The crispy bacon and tender shrimp complement the smooth and creamy grits, offering a delightful textural experience.
* **Customizable:** This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences. You can adjust the amount of cheese, spice level, and even add other vegetables like bell peppers or onions.
* **Relatively Quick:** While grits do take some time to cook, the overall dish comes together in under an hour, making it a great option for a satisfying meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
### For the Grits:
* **Grits:** 1 cup stone-ground grits (or quick-cooking grits, see notes below)
* **Water:** 4 cups
* **Milk:** 1 cup (whole milk or half-and-half for extra richness)
* **Butter:** 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
* **Cheese:** 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack)
* **Salt:** To taste
* **Black pepper:** To taste
* **Optional:** A pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for added flavor
### For the Shrimp and Bacon:
* **Bacon:** 8 slices thick-cut bacon
* **Shrimp:** 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
* **Olive oil:** 1 tablespoon
* **Garlic:** 2 cloves, minced
* **Green onions:** 2, thinly sliced
* **Lemon juice:** 1 tablespoon
* **Cajun seasoning:** 1-2 teaspoons (adjust to your spice preference)
* **Hot sauce:** A dash, optional
* **Fresh parsley:** Chopped, for garnish
## Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
* **Grits:** Stone-ground grits provide the best texture and flavor for this dish. However, quick-cooking grits can be used as a substitute. Note that the cooking time and liquid ratio may need to be adjusted according to the package directions. Avoid using instant grits, as they tend to be too mushy.
* **Cheese:** Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for cheesy grits, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Gruyere adds a nutty flavor, Monterey Jack provides a mild and creamy taste, and pepper jack adds a spicy kick.
* **Shrimp:** Use large or jumbo shrimp for the best results. Fresh or frozen shrimp can be used. If using frozen shrimp, thaw it completely before cooking.
* **Bacon:** Thick-cut bacon adds more flavor and crispiness to the dish. You can use regular bacon if you prefer, but you may need to adjust the cooking time.
* **Cajun Seasoning:** You can buy pre-made Cajun seasoning or make your own blend using paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and black pepper.
* **Milk:** Using milk adds richness to the grits. You can also substitute with half-and-half or even cream for a decadent treat. Water can be used in place of milk if you prefer a lighter dish.
* **Vegetarian Option:** For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of water when cooking the grits. Add some sautéed mushrooms or other vegetables to the shrimp mixture for added flavor and texture.
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect shrimp and cheesy grits with bacon:
### Part 1: Cooking the Bacon
1. **Cook the Bacon:** Place the bacon slices in a cold skillet. Cook over medium heat until crispy, flipping occasionally. This allows the bacon to render its fat slowly, resulting in crispy and flavorful bacon. The cook time will vary depending on the thickness of the bacon. Aim for a deep golden-brown color and a crisp texture. About 8-12 minutes should be expected.
2. **Remove and Drain:** Once the bacon is crispy, remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Reserve about 1-2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet for cooking the shrimp. Crumble or chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
### Part 2: Making the Cheesy Grits
1. **Bring Liquids to a Boil:** In a medium saucepan, combine the water and milk. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Adding the milk creates a creamier and richer base for the grits.
2. **Whisk in Grits:** Once the liquid is boiling, gradually whisk in the grits. Whisk continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or according to the package directions for the type of grits you are using. Stir frequently to prevent the grits from sticking to the bottom of the pan. If the grits become too thick, add a little more water or milk to achieve the desired consistency. Stone-ground grits will take significantly longer to cook than quick-cooking grits.
3. **Add Cheese and Butter:** After the grits are cooked and have thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the butter and cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings like garlic powder or onion powder. Adjust the amount of cheese to your liking. A sharp cheddar will provide a stronger cheesy flavor, while a milder cheese like Monterey Jack will create a more subtle taste.
### Part 3: Cooking the Shrimp
1. **Prepare the Shrimp:** While the grits are cooking, prepare the shrimp. Ensure that the shrimp are peeled, deveined, and patted dry with paper towels. Patting the shrimp dry helps them to brown better when cooked.
2. **Sauté Garlic:** Heat the reserved bacon fat (or olive oil) in the skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. **Cook the Shrimp:** Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Sprinkle with Cajun seasoning and hot sauce (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
4. **Add Green Onions and Lemon Juice:** Stir in the sliced green onions and lemon juice. Cook for another minute until the green onions are softened and the flavors have melded. The lemon juice adds a bright and tangy flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
### Part 4: Assembling and Serving
1. **Assemble:** Spoon the cheesy grits into bowls. Top with the cooked shrimp and bacon. You can also mix the shrimp and bacon directly into the grits for a more integrated flavor.
2. **Garnish:** Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Cajun seasoning (optional).
3. **Serve:** Serve immediately and enjoy!
## Tips for the Best Shrimp and Cheesy Grits with Bacon
* **Use Good Quality Ingredients:** The better the quality of your ingredients, the better the flavor of the dish will be. Opt for stone-ground grits, thick-cut bacon, and fresh shrimp.
* **Don’t Rush the Grits:** Grits need time to cook properly. Be patient and allow them to simmer until they are creamy and tender. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
* **Adjust the Seasoning:** Taste the grits and shrimp throughout the cooking process and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and herbs.
* **Cook the Shrimp Perfectly:** Overcooked shrimp are rubbery and unpleasant. Cook the shrimp just until they are pink and opaque.
* **Serve Immediately:** This dish is best served immediately while the grits are hot and creamy and the shrimp are tender.
## Variations and Additions
* **Vegetables:** Add sautéed bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or spinach to the shrimp mixture for added flavor and nutrients.
* **Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning and hot sauce to control the spice level. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
* **Cheese:** Experiment with different types of cheese. Gruyere, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, and smoked Gouda are all great options.
* **Herbs:** Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives to the grits or shrimp mixture for added flavor.
* **Andouille Sausage:** Add sliced andouille sausage to the shrimp mixture for a heartier and more flavorful dish.
* **Creamy Sauce:** Create a creamy sauce by adding a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the shrimp mixture at the end of cooking.
## Serving Suggestions
Shrimp and cheesy grits with bacon can be served as a main course for brunch, lunch, or dinner. Here are some serving suggestions:
* **Brunch:** Serve with a side of fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, or a mimosa.
* **Lunch:** Serve with a side salad or a cup of soup.
* **Dinner:** Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or cornbread.
## Storage and Reheating Instructions
* **Storage:** Store leftover shrimp and cheesy grits in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheating:** To reheat, microwave the grits and shrimp separately until heated through. You may need to add a little water or milk to the grits to rehydrate them. Alternatively, you can reheat the dish in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally.
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
* **Can I use quick-cooking grits instead of stone-ground grits?**
Yes, you can use quick-cooking grits. However, the cooking time and liquid ratio may need to be adjusted according to the package directions. Avoid using instant grits, as they tend to be too mushy.
* **Can I use frozen shrimp?**
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Thaw the shrimp completely before cooking.
* **Can I make this dish ahead of time?**
You can make the grits ahead of time and reheat them when you’re ready to serve. However, it’s best to cook the shrimp fresh for the best flavor and texture.
* **How do I prevent the grits from sticking to the bottom of the pan?**
Stir the grits frequently while they are cooking to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pan. You can also use a non-stick saucepan.
* **Can I add other vegetables to this dish?**
Yes, you can add sautéed bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or spinach to the shrimp mixture.
## Shrimp and Cheesy Grits with Bacon Recipe
Here’s the complete recipe for Shrimp and Cheesy Grits with Bacon:
**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 35 minutes
**Total Time:** 50 minutes
**Servings:** 4
### Ingredients:
#### For the Grits:
* 1 cup stone-ground grits (or quick-cooking grits)
* 4 cups water
* 1 cup milk (whole milk or half-and-half)
* 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
* Salt to taste
* Black pepper to taste
* Optional: A pinch of garlic powder or onion powder
#### For the Shrimp and Bacon:
* 8 slices thick-cut bacon
* 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 green onions, thinly sliced
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1-2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
* A dash of hot sauce (optional)
* Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
### Instructions:
1. **Cook the Bacon:** Place the bacon slices in a cold skillet. Cook over medium heat until crispy, flipping occasionally. Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels. Reserve 1-2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet. Crumble or chop the bacon and set aside.
2. **Make the Grits:** In a medium saucepan, bring the water and milk to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently, until the grits are creamy and tender. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. **Cook the Shrimp:** While the grits are cooking, heat the reserved bacon fat (or olive oil) in the skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp to the skillet and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning and hot sauce (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Stir in the sliced green onions and lemon juice. Cook for another minute until the green onions are softened.
4. **Assemble and Serve:** Spoon the cheesy grits into bowls. Top with the cooked shrimp and bacon. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Cajun seasoning (optional). Serve immediately.
## Enjoy Your Delicious Shrimp and Cheesy Grits with Bacon!
This Shrimp and Cheesy Grits with Bacon recipe is a true comfort food classic that’s sure to impress. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and satisfying ingredients, it’s a meal that you’ll want to make again and again. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a taste of Southern hospitality in every bite! Don’t forget to share your creations and variations with friends and family. Happy cooking!