Description
If you’re craving a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the rich flavors of bacon, succulent shrimp, and creamy cheddar grits, look no further than this Bacon Shrimp and Cheddar Grits recipe. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this Southern-inspired dish will surely satisfy your taste buds. Here’s how to create this delicious meal step by step:
Ingredients
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- Kosher salt
- 1 cup corn grits
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 4 scallions, thinly sliced, plus more for garnish
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
Preparing the Grits:
- In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth and water to a boil. Season generously with salt.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and whisk in corn grits. Stir often and simmer until grits have absorbed the liquid and become tender, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in butter and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking the Bacon and Shrimp:
4. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy, approximately 8 minutes. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat, then chop into small pieces. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.
5. Season shrimp with dried oregano and paprika.
6. Add seasoned shrimp, sliced green onions, and minced garlic to the skillet with reserved bacon fat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until shrimp turns pink and is cooked through, about 4 minutes.
7. Stir in lemon juice to the shrimp mixture for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Assembling the Dish:
8. Serve shrimp over the prepared cheddar grits.
9. Top with chopped bacon and garnish with additional sliced scallions for extra flavor and presentation.
Notes
Serving Tips:
- Serve hot: This dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot from the stove to preserve its creamy texture and flavors.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with additional chopped scallions or fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
- Presentation: Serve in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy grits topped with savory shrimp and crispy bacon.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerate promptly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Consume within 2-3 days: Grits can become dry upon reheating, so enjoy within a couple of days for the best taste and texture.
- Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water when microwaving to maintain moisture in the grits. Alternatively, gently reheat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally.
Enjoy the savory delight of Bacon Shrimp and Cheddar Grits with these serving and storage tips, ensuring each meal is as delicious as the first serving!
