Creole Shrimp Cheese Grits (Printable Version)
Southern-inspired dish with spicy shrimp and creamy cheesy grits, blended with bold Creole flavors.
# What You'll Need:
→ For the Cheese Grits
01 - 1 cup stone-ground grits
02 - 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water for vegetarian
03 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
04 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
05 - 1/2 tsp kosher salt
06 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
→ For the Creole Shrimp
07 - 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
08 - 1 tbsp olive oil
09 - 1 tbsp unsalted butter
10 - 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
11 - 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
12 - 2 celery stalks, finely diced
13 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
14 - 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
15 - 1 tbsp Creole seasoning
16 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
17 - 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
18 - 1/2 tsp kosher salt
19 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
20 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
21 - 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
# How to Make It:
01 - Bring chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in grits, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until thick and creamy.
02 - Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar cheese, butter, salt, and pepper until cheese is melted and grits are smooth. Cover and keep warm.
03 - Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
04 - Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Stir in diced tomatoes, Creole seasoning, paprika, cayenne if using, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
05 - Add shrimp to the skillet, cooking 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Stir in parsley and lemon juice. Remove from heat.
06 - Divide cheese grits among bowls. Top with Creole shrimp mixture. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
# Expert Insights:
01 -
- The combination of creamy, cheesy grits with spicy, tangy shrimp is pure comfort food heaven
- Its impressive enough for dinner guests but comes together in under 45 minutes on a weeknight
- The Creole seasoning gives it that authentic Southern kick without being overpowering
02 -
- Stone ground grits require patience and frequent stirring to prevent scorching on the bottom of the pan
- The grits will continue to thicken as they sit, so you may need to add a splash of broth or cream before serving
- Shrimp cook incredibly fast, so watch them closely and remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink
03 -
- Season your shrimp with a little extra Creole seasoning about 15 minutes before cooking for deeper flavor penetration
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre shredded for the smoothest, most melty grits possible