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Comforting Cajun Shrimp and Grits Recipe with Crispy Bacon

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A quick and easy Cajun shrimp and creamy cheese grits recipe topped with crispy bacon, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or cozy dinners. This dish combines smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors for a comforting Southern-inspired meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup stone-ground grits
  • 4 cups water or chicken broth
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • Juice of half a lemon
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon
  • Optional garnishes: chopped fresh parsley or green onions, hot sauce

Instructions

  1. Prepare the grits: In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil over medium-high heat. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits, reduce heat to low immediately to avoid lumps. Cook, stirring frequently, for 20-25 minutes until thick and creamy. Add water or broth if too thick.
  2. Add butter and cheese: Stir in 2 tablespoons softened unsalted butter and 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Cover and keep warm on very low heat, stirring occasionally.
  3. Cook the bacon: Place 6 slices of thick-cut bacon in a cold large skillet. Turn heat to medium and cook slowly, flipping occasionally, until crispy and golden brown, about 10-12 minutes. Remove bacon and drain on paper towels. Reserve about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan.
  4. Season the shrimp: In a mixing bowl, toss 1 lb peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and minced garlic until evenly coated.
  5. Sauté the shrimp: Heat reserved bacon fat or add olive oil if needed over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred. Squeeze juice of half a lemon over shrimp and toss to coat.
  6. Assemble the dish: Spoon creamy grits into bowls. Top with Cajun shrimp, crumbled crispy bacon, and sprinkle with fresh parsley or green onions if desired. Add hot sauce for extra heat.

Notes

Do not rush the grits; slow cooking and frequent stirring prevent lumps and ensure creamy texture. Avoid overcrowding shrimp in the pan to get a good sear. Bacon fat adds flavor to shrimp but can be drained for lower fat. Leftovers keep up to 2 days refrigerated; reheat grits with splash of milk or water and shrimp gently to avoid overcooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun shrimp, grits, crispy bacon, Southern recipe, comfort food, easy dinner, brunch recipe, spicy shrimp

Find it online: https://sofiaspice.com/comforting-cajun-shrimp-and-grits-recipe-with-crispy-bacon-easy-guide/