Save It Creamy Parmesan grits topped with tender, garlicky shrimp and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, creating a comforting and flavorful Southern-inspired meal.
I first made this Shrimp Parmesan Grits Bowl for a family dinner and was amazed how quickly everyone gathered at the table, drawn by its aroma and richness. Even those who usually steer clear of grits became instant fans after their first spoonful.
Ingredients
- Stone-ground grits: 1 cup
- Low-sodium chicken broth (or water): 4 cups
- Whole milk: 1 cup
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: 1 cup
- Kosher salt: 1/2 teaspoon (for grits), 1/2 teaspoon (for shrimp)
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (for grits), 1/4 teaspoon (for shrimp)
- Large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined: 1 1/2 pounds
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic, minced: 3 cloves
- Smoked paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Cayenne pepper (optional): 1/2 teaspoon
- Juice of 1/2 lemon: for shrimp
- Fresh parsley, chopped: 2 tablespoons
- Extra grated Parmesan: for garnish
- Chopped chives or scallions: for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare grits:
- In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth and milk to a simmer over medium heat. Gradually whisk in grits, reduce heat to low, and cook, stirring frequently, until thick and creamy (about 20–25 minutes).
- Finish grits:
- Stir in butter, Parmesan, salt, and pepper until smooth. Cover and keep warm.
- Season shrimp:
- Pat shrimp dry. In a bowl, toss shrimp with paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook shrimp:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add shrimp and cook 2–3 minutes per side, until opaque and just cooked through.
- Finish shrimp:
- Squeeze lemon juice over shrimp and toss with chopped parsley.
- Serve:
- Spoon grits into bowls, top with shrimp, extra Parmesan, and chives or scallions.
Save It One weekend, my kids helped sprinkle Parmesan on each bowl and added the chives themselves, making it a fun family cooking moment we still remember.
Required Tools
Medium saucepan, whisk, large skillet, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons.
Allergen Information
Dairy and shellfish are present. Gluten-free, but always verify ingredient labels.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides roughly 435 calories, 18 g fat, 33 g carbohydrate, and 35 g protein.
Save It This recipe makes a beautiful brunch or dinner centerpiece. Enjoy its creamy texture and bold flavors with a glass of chilled white wine.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use instant grits instead of stone-ground?
Yes, substitute instant grits for a quicker meal; adjust liquid and cooking time as directed by the package.
- → What is the best substitute for shrimp?
Sautéed mushrooms make a tasty alternative for a vegetarian option, offering similar texture and savoriness.
- → How do I prevent the grits from clumping?
Gradually whisk grits into simmering liquid and stir often to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Use plant-based milk and cheese; replace butter with olive oil for a dairy-free version.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
Crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light Chardonnay complements the creamy grits and succulent shrimp beautifully.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, it's naturally gluten-free; verify broth and cheese labels to ensure no gluten-containing additives.