Shrimp and Grits with Crispy Bacon and Cheddar

Here’s a  mouthwatering Shrimp and Grits with Crispy Bacon and Cheddar recipe that’s Southern-style comfort food at its best. This recipe serves about 4 people and combines creamy, cheesy grits with savory shrimp, crispy bacon, and a flavorful sauce.

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🧂 Ingredients

For the Grits:

• 1 cup stone-ground grits (not instant or quick grits)

• 4 cups water (or 3 cups water + 1 cup milk for creamier grits)

• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Juice of 1/2 lemon

For the Bacon and Sauce:

• 4–6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped

• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (or shallots)

• 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth (or white wine)

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)

• Optional: Hot sauce (like Crystal or Tabasco), for serving

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🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Grits

1. In a medium saucepan, bring water (or water + milk) to a boil.

2. Slowly whisk in the grits to prevent lumps.

3. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, until the grits are thick and tender (about 20–25 minutes for stone-ground grits).

4. Stir in butter, shredded cheddar, salt, and pepper. Keep warm.

✅ Tip: If grits become too thick, stir in a splash of milk or broth to loosen them.

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2. Cook the Bacon

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy.

2. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels.

3. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet for flavor (drain excess if needed).

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3. Make the Shrimp and Sauce

1. In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add onions (or shallots) and sauté until soft (2–3 minutes).

2. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

3. Add shrimp, olive oil, butter, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes per side, until shrimp are pink and opaque.

4. Add lemon juice, Worcestershire, and broth (or wine). Let simmer for another minute to combine the flavors.

5. Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and stir.

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4. Assemble the Dish

1. Spoon a generous portion of cheesy grits into bowls.

2. Top with a portion of shrimp and sauce.

3. Garnish with green onions, extra shredded cheese if desired, and a dash of hot sauce.

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📝 Tips & Variations

• Swap cheddar with smoked gouda for a twist.

• Add a splash of cream to the shrimp sauce for richness.

• Use Creole seasoning instead of individual spices for more punch.

• Serve with a fried egg on top for a brunch version.

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🧡 Serving Suggestion

Serve immediately with warm biscuits, collard greens, or a side salad.