This dish features spicy blackened shrimp served over creamy, cheesy grits. Yum! The shrimp packs a flavorful punch, while the grits are smooth and comforting.
I love how the flavors come together—it’s a warm hug on a plate! Sometimes, I even enjoy it for breakfast. Who says grits are just for dinner? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect here, but you can use smaller ones or even frozen shrimp if you’re in a pinch. Just remember to thaw them properly before cooking!
Blackening Spice: The spice mix gives the shrimp its signature flavor. If you don’t have cayenne pepper, paprika alone works, though it won’t have the heat. You can also use store-bought blackening seasoning if that’s easier.
Grits: Stone-ground grits offer the best flavor and texture. If you can’t find them, quick-cooking grits or even polenta will work. For creamier grits, consider using a mix of water and milk or cream.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite for that strong, tangy flavor, but feel free to experiment with pepper jack for some heat or a mild cheese for a subtler taste.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Cheesy Grits?
Cooking grits may seem tricky, but with a few simple steps, you can make them creamy and delicious! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by bringing water (or your water and milk mixture) to a boil. This is key for a good texture.
- Slowly whisk in the grits. This prevents clumping, which can ruin the creamy texture.
- Once incorporated, reduce the heat to low and stir frequently to avoid sticking. This helps them cook evenly.
- After 20-25 minutes, they should be thick and tender. Stir in butter and cheese for the best flavor!
Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll have perfectly cooked cheesy grits every time!
How to Make Blackened Shrimp And Cheesy Grits
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp and Blackening Spice:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 2 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
For the Cheesy Grits:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water (or a mix of water and milk/cream for creamier grits)
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Garnish:
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 20 minutes to prep and about 30 minutes to cook, making your total time approximately 50 minutes. It’s perfect for a filling dinner that feels like a special treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Blackening Seasoning:
First, gather your spices! In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. This spice blend is what gives our shrimp that incredible flavor, so mix it well!
2. Season the Shrimp:
Next, pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to help the spices stick. Toss the shrimp in olive oil or melted butter to coat them, then sprinkle the blackening seasoning over the shrimp. Make sure to toss everything together until the shrimp are evenly coated. You want each bite to be full of flavor!
3. Cook the Grits:
In a medium saucepan, bring the water and salt to a boil. Once it’s boiling, slowly whisk in the grits. Lower the heat to simmer and stir frequently. Cook them for about 20-25 minutes, until thickened and tender. The stirring helps prevent any lumps, so don’t skip this step!
4. Finish the Grits:
Once your grits are wonderfully creamy, stir in the butter and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until both are melted and the grits become even creamier! Keep your grits warm on low heat while you cook the shrimp.
5. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a heavy skillet (cast iron works great!) over medium-high heat. If you like, add a little oil to the pan. Once it’s hot, add the shrimp in a single layer—you might need to do this in batches. Cook without moving them for about 2 minutes, until they’re nicely blackened and charred. Flip the shrimp over and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they are fully cooked and opaque. Take them off the heat!
6. Assemble the Dish:
Time to put it all together! Spoon the cheesy grits into warm bowls and top with the blackened shrimp. Don’t forget to drizzle any juices from the skillet over the shrimp—we want all that tasty goodness!
7. Garnish and Serve:
For a little pop of color and flavor, sprinkle the sliced green onions over your shrimp and grits. Serve immediately and enjoy the wonderful flavors you created!
With bold, spicy shrimp and rich, creamy grits, this dish is sure to warm your heart and fill your belly. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to properly thaw the frozen shrimp before seasoning and cooking. The best methods are to place them in the refrigerator overnight or to submerge them in cold water in a sealed plastic bag for quicker thawing.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the grits and blackening seasoning in advance. The grits can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat the grits on low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess.
What Types of Cheese Work Best in Grits?
Sharp cheddar cheese is a classic choice, providing great flavor. However, feel free to try other cheeses like pepper jack for a kick, or even gouda or cream cheese for a different creamy texture!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the grits and shrimp gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
