Easy Shrimp and Grits 

This Easy Shrimp and Grits recipe brings the rich flavors of Southern cuisine to your table in just 15 minutes. Creamy, cheesy grits are topped with succulent shrimp cooked in savory bacon fat, creating a comforting and indulgent dish. The addition of crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch and smoky flavor, elevating this classic comfort food. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special brunch, this recipe combines simplicity with gourmet taste. Whether you're new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Grits:

• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  
  

• Kosher salt, to taste
  
  

• 1 cup corn grits
  
  

• 4 oz yellow cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
  
  

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed
  
  

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  
  

For the Shrimp:

• 10 oz thick-cut bacon, cut into ½" slices
  
  

• 1 lb large tail-on shrimp, peeled and deveined
  
  

• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  
  

• 1 tsp dried oregano
  
  

• ¼ tsp paprika
  
  

• 1 tbsp tomato paste
  
  

• ¾ cup vegetable broth
  
  

• 4 scallions, thinly sliced, plus more for serving
  
  

• Juice of ½ lemon

Directions

1. Prepare the Grits:
   
   

   • In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth and 2 cups water to a boil; generously season with salt.
     
     

   • Reduce heat to medium-low and bring to a simmer.
     
     

   • Whisk in grits and cook, whisking constantly, until grits have absorbed liquid and are very tender, about 15 minutes.
     
     

   • Stir in cheese and butter until melted; season with salt and pepper. 

2. Cook the Bacon:
   
   

   • Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon, stirring occasionally, until crispy, about 8 minutes.
     
     

   • Transfer bacon to a cutting board.
     
     

   • Pour off all but 2 tablespoons bacon fat.
     
     

   • Chop bacon into small pieces.
     
     

3. Cook the Shrimp:
   
   

   • In the same skillet over medium heat, cook shrimp, turning occasionally, until pink and cooked through, 4 to 6 minutes.
     
     

   • Transfer shrimp to a plate.
     
     

4. Prepare the Sauce:
   
   

   • In the same skillet over medium heat, cook tomato paste, stirring, until paste darkens, 1 to 2 minutes.
     
     

   • Whisk in broth and bring to a simmer.
     
     

   • Cook, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens and is reduced by about half, 4 to 5 minutes; season with salt.
     
     

   • Return shrimp to skillet and toss to combine.
     
     

   • Stir in scallions and lemon juice.
     
     

5. Serve:
   
   

   • Divide grits among plates.
     
     

   • Top grits with shrimp, sauce, bacon, and more scallions.
     
     

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 515 kcal
  
  

• Protein: 32g
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 35g
  
  

• Fat: 28g
  
  

• Sodium: 1,200mg