This dish features tasty blackened shrimp served over creamy, cheesy grits. It’s a fun mix of spices that gives the shrimp a nice kick, making every bite exciting!
I love how the warmth of the blackened shrimp pairs perfectly with the smooth and cheesy grits. Sometimes, I can’t resist sneaking a bite of the grits before serving. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large, raw shrimp for the best texture. If shrimp isn’t available, you could substitute with diced chicken or tofu, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
Spices: The blend of paprika, thyme, and cayenne gives the shrimp its distinct flavor. Feel free to swap cayenne for chili powder if you prefer less heat.
Grits: Stone-ground grits are best for a creamy texture. If you can’t find them, quick-cooking grits can be a faster option, but they won’t have the same rich flavor.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar delivers great taste, but you can mix it up with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Cream cheese can also be added for extra creaminess!
How Do I Make Creamy Grits Without Lumps?
Cooking grits to the perfect texture can be tricky, but it’s all about the method. Start with boiling water and slowly whisk in the grits to avoid lumps. Stir frequently during cooking to help them absorb liquid evenly.
- Bring the water and salt to a rapid boil before adding grits.
- Use a whisk initially to break up any clumps that form.
- Cook on low heat, stirring often to keep them smooth. If they seem too thick, add more liquid—a little at a time.
With these tips, your grits will be velvety smooth and the perfect base for the spicy shrimp!
Blackened Shrimp and Cheesy Grits
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Blackened Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
For the Cheesy Grits:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water (or 2 cups water + 2 cups milk for creamier grits)
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, making a total of around 45 minutes. You’ll have creamy, cheesy grits ready to serve with spicy, blackened shrimp in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Blackened Shrimp Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. This is the magic blend that gives your shrimp that amazing blackened flavor!
2. Season the Shrimp:
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them to sear better. Toss the shrimp in the spice mix until they are evenly coated—all those lovely spices should stick nicely!
3. Cook the Grits:
In a medium saucepan, bring water (and milk if you prefer creamier grits) and salt to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits to prevent lumps, then reduce the heat to low. Let them simmer, stirring frequently, until they are thickened and tender, which takes about 20 to 25 minutes.
4. Finish the Grits:
Once the grits are cooked, stir in the butter, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese (if using), and sliced green onions. Mix well and taste! Adjust the seasoning with a bit more salt if needed. Keep the grits warm on low heat.
5. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer—don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook for about 2 minutes on each side or until they turn opaque and have a nice blackened crust. The aroma is going to be fantastic!
6. Serve:
To plate your dish, spoon the cheesy grits into shallow bowls and top generously with the blackened shrimp. Sprinkle with extra sliced green onions for garnish and enjoy the delightful flavors!
Enjoy this delicious, creamy, and spicy Southern favorite!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. The best way to thaw shrimp is overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure they blacken properly!
Can I Make Cheesy Grits Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the grits in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat them on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water if they’ve thickened too much.
What If I Don’t Have Stone-Ground Grits?
If you don’t have stone-ground grits, you can substitute them with quick-cooking grits, which will save you time. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package since the cooking time will be shorter. The texture may be slightly different, but they’ll still be delicious!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
You can easily adjust the heat by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper used in the shrimp seasoning. For a milder flavor, reduce the cayenne or omit it entirely. You can also add a touch of hot sauce or red pepper flakes when serving for those who enjoy some spice!