Description
Shrimp and Grits Bites are a delightful Southern-inspired appetizer that transforms the classic creamy, cheesy grits and spicy shrimp into perfect bite-sized snacks. The grits are cooked until creamy, chilled and cut into rounds, then pan-seared until golden brown. Topped with flavorful sautéed shrimp and finished with a garnish of green onions or parsley and an optional tangy sauce, these bites are ideal for entertaining or game day.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Grits Base:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb medium shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For Garnish:
- Chopped green onions or parsley
- Hot sauce or remoulade (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Grits: In a saucepan, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits and reduce heat to low. Simmer gently for 20–25 minutes while stirring frequently, until the grits are thick and creamy.
- Add Flavor to Grits: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, unsalted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the cooked grits. Mix thoroughly until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Chill and Set Grits: Pour the cheesy grits into a greased 9×9-inch pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Allow to cool slightly, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until the grits firm up completely.
- Cut and Sear Grits: Once chilled and set, cut the grits into rounds or squares using a biscuit cutter or knife. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and sear the grits pieces for 2–3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust.
- Prepare the Shrimp: Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Sauté the Shrimp: In a hot pan, sauté the seasoned shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn opaque and are slightly charred, ensuring they are cooked through.
- Assemble the Bites: Top each seared grits bite with one sautéed shrimp. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley and drizzle with hot sauce or remoulade if desired.
- Serve: Serve the shrimp and grits bites warm as a flavorful appetizer or party snack.
Notes
- Prepare the grits base up to a day in advance and refrigerate; sear just before serving for convenience.
- Use bacon fat instead of olive oil when searing the grits or shrimp for enhanced smoky flavor.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the cooked shrimp to brighten and balance the flavors.
