Garlic Butter Shrimp and Grits Recipe – Creamy, Flavorful & Easy to Make

Introduction

Garlic Butter Shrimp and Grits is a classic Southern comfort dish that has captivated food lovers worldwide. With its creamy, buttery grits topped with succulent, garlic-infused shrimp, this meal is the epitome of indulgence. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner, it delivers a satisfying blend of rich flavors and creamy textures. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or a comfort food connoisseur, Garlic Butter Shrimp and Grits will undoubtedly hit the spot.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about making the best Garlic Butter Shrimp and Grits from scratch. From perfecting the creamy grits to cooking the garlic butter shrimp to perfection, we’ll cover it all. Plus, we’ll share some tips and tricks to elevate your dish to restaurant-quality status. Let’s get started!

Why Garlic Butter Shrimp and Grits is So Popular

Garlic Butter Shrimp and Grits has become a go-to comfort food for many because of its simplicity and rich, decadent flavors. The combination of creamy grits with perfectly cooked shrimp in a garlic butter sauce is simply irresistible. This dish is also incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your liking with various spices and garnishes.

Some of the reasons why Garlic Butter Shrimp and Grits is loved by so many include:

• Rich Flavor Profile: The buttery, garlicky shrimp pairs beautifully with the creamy grits, creating a dish that’s hearty and satisfying.
• Quick and Easy Preparation: With a total cook time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a hearty breakfast, comforting brunch, or a luxurious dinner.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp and Grits

To make this delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp and Grits recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup quick-cooking grits
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 2 cups whole milk
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 1 shallot, minced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ¼ cup chicken stock (as a substitute for white wine)
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1½ pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves, chopped, divided
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp and Grits

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking. Follow these simple steps to prepare the best Garlic Butter Shrimp and Grits you’ve ever tasted.

Step 1: Prepare the Grits

1. In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups chicken stock and 2 cups whole milk; bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Gradually whisk in 1 cup quick-cooking grits. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, until the grits are tender and creamy. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
4. Stir in 1 tablespoon of butter until it melts completely.
5. Remove from heat, cover, and set aside to keep warm.

Step 2: Cook the Garlic Butter Shrimp

1. In a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat, melt the remaining 7 tablespoons of butter.
2. Add the minced shallot and cook, stirring frequently, until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic, chopped thyme leaves, and paprika to the skillet. Cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant (about 1 minute).
4. Stir in ¼ cup chicken stock and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
5. Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and opaque (about 3-4 minutes).
7. Stir in 2 tablespoons of the chopped parsley leaves and lemon juice. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy!

1. To serve, spoon the warm grits into bowls and top with the garlic butter shrimp mixture.
2. Garnish with the remaining parsley.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp and Grits

• Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh, medium-sized shrimp. Deveining them properly ensures a clean and pleasant taste.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly. Overcooking will result in a rubbery texture. Cook until they turn pink and opaque.
• Use High-Quality Butter: Choosing a good-quality unsalted butter will enhance the overall richness of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

2. What can I substitute for chicken stock?
Vegetable stock or seafood stock are good alternatives, adding their own unique flavor to the dish.

3. Can I make the grits ahead of time?
Yes, but grits tend to thicken as they sit. Simply add a little milk or stock when reheating to restore the creamy consistency.

4. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the chicken stock and Worcestershire sauce used are gluten-free.

5. How can I make the dish spicier?
Adding cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or Cajun seasoning will spice things up nicely.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp and Grits is a deliciously rich, comforting, and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Its simple preparation and versatility make it a favorite among home cooks and professional chefs alike. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or experiment with your own variations, this dish is sure to impress.

Now, it’s your turn to whip up a batch of Garlic Butter Shrimp and Grits and indulge in one of the best comfort foods the South has to offer. Enjoy!

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