Garlic Butter Shrimp & Grits

In our home, weeknight dinners are often a balancing act between quick, easy, and utterly delicious. We crave meals that bring smiles to faces, and recently, Garlic Butter Shrimp & Grits has become a star in our rotation. The first time I made this, the aroma alone was enough to gather everyone in the kitchen, anticipation hanging thick in the air. My kids, usually picky eaters, devoured it with gusto, declaring it “restaurant-worthy!” My husband, a true Southern food enthusiast, gave it his highest praise: “This tastes like home.” Since then, this recipe has become a cherished go-to, proving that comfort food can be both elegant and incredibly simple to prepare. The creamy, cheesy grits perfectly cradle the succulent, garlic-infused shrimp, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that is truly irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this Garlic Butter Shrimp & Grits recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp & Grits

This recipe utilizes simple, fresh ingredients to create a dish bursting with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound Large Shrimp: Peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen (thawed) shrimp will work. Look for shrimp that are plump and firm for the best texture.
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the shrimp. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
• 4 cloves Garlic: Minced. Fresh garlic is crucial for that pungent, aromatic garlic butter flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, for a touch of heat. Adjust to your spice preference or omit if you prefer a milder dish.
• 1/4 cup Dry White Wine: (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc). Adds acidity and complexity to the sauce. Chicken broth can be substituted if you prefer to avoid alcohol.
• 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed. Brightens the flavors and complements the garlic and shrimp.
• 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley: Chopped. Adds freshness and a pop of color.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Essential for seasoning both the shrimp and the grits.

For the Grits:

• 4 cups Chicken Broth: Low sodium is recommended to control salt levels. Broth adds more flavor than water.
• 1 cup Stone-Ground Grits: Coarse or medium grind. Stone-ground grits have a wonderful texture and nutty flavor. Avoid instant grits for this recipe as they lack the desired texture and flavor.
• 1 cup Milk: Whole milk or 2% milk for creaminess. Adds richness to the grits.
• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream: Enhances the creamy texture and richness of the grits. Can be substituted with half-and-half for a slightly lighter option.
• 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Shredded. Adds a sharp, cheesy flavor that complements the shrimp and grits. Other cheeses like Gruyere, Parmesan, or pepper jack can also be used.
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter: Added at the end for extra richness and shine.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Crucial for seasoning the grits properly.

Instructions: How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp & Grits

Follow these simple steps to create a restaurant-quality Garlic Butter Shrimp & Grits dish in your own kitchen.

Step 1: Prepare the Grits

1. Bring Broth to a Boil: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Whisk in Grits: Slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits in a steady stream to prevent clumping.
3. Reduce Heat and Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or according to package directions, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The grits should thicken and become creamy.
4. Add Milk and Cream: Stir in the milk and heavy cream. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the grits are very smooth and creamy.
5. Stir in Cheese and Butter: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and butter until melted and fully incorporated.
6. Season the Grits: Season the grits with salt and black pepper to taste. Keep warm while you prepare the shrimp. You can cover the pot and set it aside, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming. If the grits become too thick, you can add a splash of milk or broth to loosen them up.

Step 2: Cook the Garlic Butter Shrimp

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Ensure the shrimp are peeled, deveined, and patted dry with paper towels. Patting them dry helps them brown nicely in the butter.
2. Melt Butter in Skillet: In a large skillet (preferably cast iron for even heat distribution), melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the melted butter and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Add Shrimp to Skillet: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will steam the shrimp instead of searing them. If necessary, cook the shrimp in batches.
5. Cook Shrimp: Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque and are cooked through. Do not overcook, or they will become rubbery.
6. Deglaze with White Wine (or Broth): Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the wine reduce slightly for about 1 minute.
7. Add Lemon Juice and Parsley: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley.
8. Season the Shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

1. Spoon Grits into Bowls: Divide the creamy grits among bowls.
2. Top with Garlic Butter Shrimp: Spoon the garlic butter shrimp and sauce over the grits in each bowl.
3. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with extra fresh parsley, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or a lemon wedge, if desired.
4. Serve Immediately: Serve hot and enjoy the delicious combination of creamy grits and flavorful garlic butter shrimp!

Nutrition Facts for Garlic Butter Shrimp & Grits (Estimated)

These nutrition facts are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. This is based on a serving size of approximately 1.5 cups.

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 650-750 calories

Per Serving (Approximate Values):

• Protein: 40-45g
• Fat: 40-50g

Note: These are estimated values. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with specific ingredient brands and measurements.

Preparation Time for Garlic Butter Shrimp & Grits

This recipe is relatively quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or when you need a delicious meal in a reasonable amount of time.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (for ingredient preparation and shrimp cleaning)
• Cook Time: 30 minutes (for grits and shrimp)
• Total Time: 45 minutes

This Garlic Butter Shrimp & Grits recipe is a fantastic option when you want a flavorful and satisfying meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp & Grits

Garlic Butter Shrimp & Grits is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal and make it a complete culinary experience:

• Classic Southern Style: Serve in shallow bowls, ensuring a generous portion of creamy grits is topped with the flavorful shrimp and garlic butter sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley for a traditional presentation.
• Side Salad: A light and refreshing side salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a wonderful contrast to the richness of the shrimp and grits. Consider a simple green salad with tomatoes and cucumbers, or a Caesar salad for a heartier option.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, green beans, or Brussels sprouts are excellent vegetable pairings. The slight char from roasting complements the creamy grits and savory shrimp.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up every last bit of the delicious garlic butter sauce. Sourdough, baguette, or ciabatta would all be great choices.
• Cornbread: For an extra touch of Southern comfort, serve with warm cornbread. The slightly sweet cornbread is a classic accompaniment to grits.
• Lemon Wedges: Offer lemon wedges on the side for those who like an extra squeeze of acidity to brighten the flavors.
• Hot Sauce: For spice lovers, provide a bottle of your favorite hot sauce to add an extra kick to the dish. Tabasco, Louisiana hot sauce, or your preferred chili sauce would work well.
• Drinks Pairing:
  • White Wine: Continue with the white wine used in the recipe, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
  • Rosé Wine: A dry rosé wine is another excellent pairing, offering a balance of fruitiness and acidity.
  • Light Beer: A light and crisp beer, like a Pilsner or Pale Ale, can also complement the dish.
  • Iced Tea: For a non-alcoholic option, iced tea is a classic Southern beverage that pairs well with comfort food.

Additional Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp & Grits

Elevate your Garlic Butter Shrimp & Grits from good to extraordinary with these helpful tips:

1. Use Quality Grits: Opt for stone-ground grits over instant grits for superior texture and flavor. Stone-ground grits have a coarser texture and a nuttier taste that enhances the overall dish.
2. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and lose their tenderness. Cook just until they turn pink and opaque, usually about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Bloom the Garlic: Sautéing the minced garlic in butter until fragrant (but not browned or burnt) is crucial for releasing its aromatic oils and maximizing flavor in the garlic butter sauce.
4. Season Generously: Season both the grits and the shrimp at each stage of cooking. Salt and pepper are essential for bringing out the flavors of the ingredients. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
5. Low and Slow Grits: Cook the grits low and slow for the best creamy texture. Simmering them gently allows them to absorb the liquid properly and become incredibly smooth. Stirring occasionally prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
6. Warm Plates or Bowls: Serving hot food on warm plates or bowls helps to keep the dish at the optimal temperature for longer, ensuring a more enjoyable dining experience.
7. Fresh Lemon Juice is Key: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a vibrant acidity that balances the richness of the butter and cheese and enhances the flavors of the shrimp and garlic.
8. Customize the Cheese: While sharp cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere, Parmesan, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses to create your own flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Garlic Butter Shrimp & Grits

Here are some common questions you might have when making Garlic Butter Shrimp & Grits:

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry thoroughly after thawing to ensure they sear nicely and don’t become watery.

Q2: Can I use instant grits?
A: While you can use instant grits in a pinch, stone-ground grits are highly recommended for this recipe. Instant grits lack the texture and flavor depth of stone-ground grits, which are essential for achieving the best creamy and flavorful grits.

Q3: What if I don’t have white wine?
A: If you don’t have white wine, you can substitute chicken broth or vegetable broth in the shrimp sauce. It will still be delicious, although the white wine adds a layer of complexity and acidity.

Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: The shrimp is best cooked fresh and served immediately. The grits can be made ahead of time and reheated gently with a little extra milk or broth to restore their creamy consistency. However, for the best results, it’s recommended to make both components closer to serving time.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover shrimp and grits separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat the grits gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth, and reheat the shrimp in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through. Avoid overheating the shrimp as it can become rubbery upon reheating.

Q6: Can I make this recipe spicier?
A: Yes, you can easily adjust the spice level. Add more red pepper flakes to the shrimp sauce, or use a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side for those who prefer extra heat.

Q7: What are some vegetarian substitutions for shrimp?
A: While this recipe is specifically for shrimp, you could try substituting with large, meaty mushrooms (like portobello or king oyster mushrooms) sautéed in garlic butter for a vegetarian option, though it will change the overall flavor profile significantly. For a closer seafood substitute, consider using hearts of palm or artichoke hearts, though they will have a different texture.

Q8: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Making the grits dairy-free will require substitutions. You can use unsweetened plant-based milk (like almond, soy, or oat milk) and plant-based cream (like coconut cream or oat cream) instead of dairy milk and heavy cream. For the cheese, you can use a dairy-free shredded cheddar-style cheese alternative. For the butter, use a plant-based butter alternative. Be aware that these substitutions may slightly alter the f

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