This dish features spicy blackened shrimp served over creamy, cheesy grits. It’s like a hug for your taste buds with a delightful mix of flavors!
Honestly, who can resist cheesy grits?! I love how the shrimp adds a kick, making it perfect for a cozy dinner that feels special without too much fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for this dish—they cook quickly and have a great texture. If you’re allergic or don’t have shrimp, consider using chicken or tofu as alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
Smoked Paprika: This spice gives the shrimp its signature smoky flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works too, though it won’t have that smoky depth. A dash of liquid smoke can replicate it if needed.
Grits: I recommend stone-ground grits for their rich texture. If you can’t find them, instant grits can work in a pinch, but you lose some creaminess. You can also use polenta as a substitute for a different flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar really enhances the flavor of your grits! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could swap this for a reduced-fat cheese, though the taste might not be as intense.
How Do You Cook the Perfect Grits?
Cooking grits can be tricky, but with patience, you can achieve that creamy, dreamy texture. Here’s how:
- Start by bringing your water or broth to a boil. This is crucial for flavor.
- Gradually whisk in the grits. This will help prevent lumps, which can ruin the dish.
- Once incorporated, reduce the heat to low and stir frequently. This keeps the grits from sticking to the bottom and burning.
- Cook for 20-25 minutes until they are smooth and creamy. If they get too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash more water or broth!
- Finish with butter and cheese off the heat, as this keeps them creamy without overcooking.
Follow these tips and enjoy a delightful bowl of creamy cheesy grits topped with flavorful blackened shrimp! It’s a comforting dish that never disappoints.
How to Make Blackened Shrimp and Cheesy Grits
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
For the Cheesy Grits:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions (scallions), sliced thinly
- Hot sauce or additional melted butter, optional
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to cook. With a total of around 45 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, black pepper, and salt. This blend will give the shrimp a beautiful flavor and a lovely blackened crust.
2. Season the Shrimp:
Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a larger bowl. Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter, then sprinkle the seasoning mix over the shrimp. Toss well until all the shrimp are nicely coated. Set aside to let the flavors soak in.
3. Cook the Grits:
In a medium-sized saucepan, bring the water or chicken broth and 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil. Gradually whisk in the stone-ground grits to avoid lumps. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer, stirring often, until the grits are creamy and tender, which should take about 20 to 25 minutes.
4. Add Cheese and Butter to the Grits:
Once the grits are cooked, remove them from the heat. Stir in the butter, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese until everything is melted and smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more black pepper and salt if needed. Keep the grits warm on low heat.
5. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook them for about 2 minutes on each side, turning them until they’re opaque and have a nice blackened crust—delicious!
6. Assemble the Dish:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Spoon a hearty portion of the cheesy grits into each bowl or plate, then top them generously with the blackened shrimp.
7. Garnish:
Finish it off by sprinkling the sliced green onions over the shrimp and grits. If you like a little extra heat or richness, drizzle with hot sauce or melted butter.
8. Serve Immediately:
Enjoy your comforting, flavorful blackened shrimp and cheesy grits while they’re hot. It’s a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the taste buds!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen shrimp, make sure to completely thaw them first. The best way is to transfer them to the fridge overnight, but you can also place the shrimp in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat them dry before seasoning for the best results!
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the blackening seasoning. Adding a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the grits or garnishing with spicy pepper flakes can also elevate the spice level! Just taste as you go to avoid overpowering the other flavors.
What Can I Substitute for Grits?
If you don’t have stone-ground grits, you can substitute them with instant grits or even polenta. Keep in mind that cooking times and textures will vary, so follow package instructions for best results!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the grits gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or milk to help restore creaminess, and reheat the shrimp in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.