Creole Shrimp and Grits

Creole Shrimp and Grits—a dish that embodies Southern culinary tradition. This recipe features tender shrimp simmered in a piquant tomato gravy, served over creamy, cheesy grits with the smoky essence of Andouille sausage. Perfect for brunch or dinner, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

For the Shrimp and Gravy

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tsp Creole seasoning
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ cups grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1 tsp celery salt
  • ½ cup green onions, sliced
  • ¼ cup dry white wine or chicken stock
  • 8 oz corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp water
  • Chopped parsley, for garnish

For the Grits

  • 4 cups chicken stock or water
  • 1 tbsp kosher salt
  • 1 cup grits (quick-cooking or regular)
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 8 oz creamed corn

Grocery List

Proteins:

  • Large shrimp (1 lb)

Vegetables:

  • Grape tomatoes (1 ½ cups)
  • Garlic (5 cloves)
  • Green onions (½ cup)
  • Corn kernels (8 oz)

Dairy:

  • Cheddar cheese (1 cup)

Pantry Items:

  • Olive oil (1 tbsp)
  • Butter (2 tbsp)
  • Dry white wine or chicken stock (¼ cup)
  • Cornstarch (1 tbsp)

Spices:

  • Creole seasoning (1 tsp)
  • Smoked paprika (1 tsp)
  • Black pepper (1 tsp)
  • Celery salt (1 tsp)

Cooking Costs

The estimated cost to prepare this dish for four servings is around $20-$30, depending on local prices for shrimp and other ingredients.

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Grits

  1. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of chicken stock or water to a boil.
  2. Add 1 tbsp of kosher salt.
  3. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of grits, reducing heat to low.
  4. Simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 8 oz of creamed corn. Cover and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp and Gravy

  1. In a bowl, combine shrimp with Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Toss in the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 1 minute without stirring.
  5. Add halved grape tomatoes, celery salt, and green onions; stir occasionally for about 3 minutes.
  6. Deglaze the pan with white wine or chicken stock, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
  7. Stir in corn kernels and cook for another minute.
  8. Mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl; add to the skillet and stir until the sauce thickens.

Step 3: Serve

Spoon the creamy grits onto plates, top with the shrimp mixture, and garnish with chopped parsley.

Cooking Time

Total cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.

Nutritional Information

Each serving contains approximately:

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fat: 15g

Tips & Notes

  • For added flavor, season your cooking liquid for the grits generously.
  • Feel free to substitute shrimp with other seafood like scallops or fish if desired.

Join Our Kitchen Companion Membership!

For more delicious recipes like this one, join our Kitchen Companion Membership! Enjoy exclusive access to mouth-watering recipes that will elevate your cooking game.

This Creole Shrimp and Grits recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and flavor to your table. Enjoy every bite!