Description
Cheesy Gouda Shrimp and Grits is a rich, comforting meal that combines creamy cheese grits with tender shrimp, crispy bacon, and a flavorful garlic cream sauce. It’s an easy Southern-inspired dinner that’s impressive enough for guests yet simple enough for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Grits
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup shredded Gouda cheese
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan.
- Slowly whisk in the grits. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring often, for 20 to 25 minutes until thick and creamy.
- Stir in the butter, Gouda cheese, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until smooth. Cover to keep warm.
- While the grits cook, heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet.
- Season the shrimp with the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 1½ to 2 minutes per side until pink. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
- Add the butter and garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return the shrimp and crispy bacon to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Spoon the cheesy grits into bowls, top with the shrimp mixture, and garnish with parsley and sliced green onions before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded Gouda for the smoothest texture.
- Stir the grits frequently to prevent sticking.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp or they may become rubbery.
- Cook the sauce just until it lightly thickens.
- Taste and adjust the Cajun seasoning before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 670 per serving