This dish brings a tasty mix of bold blackened shrimp and creamy cheesy grits together. The shrimp are spicy and flavorful, making each bite exciting!
I love how the rich cheese in the grits balances the shrimp’s kick. It’s so cozy and satisfying—perfect for sharing or enjoying by yourself while wearing your comfiest pajamas! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal as they hold up well to cooking and have a nice bite. If you’re allergic to shellfish, consider using chicken or firm tofu as a substitute. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Spices: The blend of paprika, garlic powder, herbs, and cayenne creates an amazing flavor. If you want less heat, reduce the cayenne pepper or skip it altogether. You can use Cajun seasoning if you’re in a pinch!
Grits: Stone-ground grits offer great texture and flavor. If unavailable, instant or regular grits can be used, but the texture will be different. For a creamier option, try using half-and-half instead of water or broth.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a great tanginess to the grits. Feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a fun twist.
How Do You Cook the Perfect Grits?
Cooking grits might seem tricky, but it’s all about the right method. Follow these steps for creamy, delicious results:
- Start by bringing the water or broth to a boil, and make sure to add salt right away for flavor.
- Slowly whisk in the grits to prevent lumps from forming. Stir continuously.
- Once you reduce the heat, keep stirring often until the grits are soft and thickened (around 20-25 minutes).
- Finish them by mixing in butter and cheese off the heat, allowing it to melt thoroughly for creaminess.
This method ensures your grits come out perfectly! Enjoy making your blackened shrimp and cheesy grits!
Blackened Shrimp And Cheesy Grits
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Blackened Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
For the Cheesy Grits:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 35-40 minutes, including 10 minutes for prep and about 25 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick dish that packs great flavor and comfort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Blackening Spice:
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. This spicy seasoning will give your shrimp that fabulous blackened flavor.
2. Season the Shrimp:
Take your shrimp and pat them dry with paper towels to help the spices stick. In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil or melted butter, making sure they’re nicely coated. Then, sprinkle the blackening spice mix over the shrimp and toss again until all the shrimp are covered in that flavorful seasoning.
3. Cook the Grits:
In a medium saucepan, bring the water or chicken broth and salt to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits to avoid any lumps. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, for about 20-25 minutes or until thick and creamy (check the package instructions for exact times, as they can vary).
4. Finish the Grits:
Once the grits are done, take them off the heat. Stir in the butter, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the mixture is creamy. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. You can keep the grits warm while you cook the shrimp.
5. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a cast-iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. If you want, add a bit more oil or butter to the pan. Place the shrimp in a single layer and cook them for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn opaque and are nicely blackened. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed.
6. Assemble the Dish:
On plates or in shallow bowls, spoon out a generous serving of the cheesy grits. Then, top them with a hearty portion of your beautifully blackened shrimp.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Lastly, sprinkle the sliced green onions over the shrimp for a fresh, crunchy contrast. For an extra flavor boost, you can drizzle some melted butter or the pan juices over the dish before serving. Enjoy every spicy, creamy bite!
Dig in and savor the delightful combination of flavors in your Blackened Shrimp And Cheesy Grits!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quick thawing. Don’t forget to pat them dry before seasoning!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love heat, you can increase the cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix or add some hot sauce when cooking the shrimp. You may also want to try adding diced jalapeños or a few dashes of your favorite spicy seasoning blend.
Can I Make the Cheesy Grits in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the grits in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to loosen them up, and warm them over low heat while stirring to achieve a creamy consistency again.
What Can I Substitute for Cheddar Cheese?
If you’re looking for a different flavor, you can substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile might change slightly, but it will still be delicious!