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Cajun Shrimp and Grits Bowl with Crispy Bacon

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This easy Southern comfort recipe features creamy stone-ground grits topped with Cajun-spiced shrimp and shatteringly crisp bacon. Perfect for brunch, dinner, or potlucks, it delivers bold flavor and nostalgic warmth in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup stone-ground grits
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 2 scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
  • Hot sauce, a few dashes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large saucepan, bring whole milk and chicken broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
  2. Slowly whisk in stone-ground grits. Reduce heat to low and continue whisking until smooth and lump-free.
  3. Let the grits cook, stirring often, for 20-25 minutes until thick and creamy. Add more milk or broth if needed.
  4. Stir in unsalted butter and shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and black pepper. Cover and keep warm.
  5. While grits cook, place bacon slices in a cold medium skillet. Turn heat to medium and cook until golden and crispy, about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and crumble when cool.
  6. Pat shrimp dry and place in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
  7. Heat the same skillet (wipe out excess bacon fat if needed, leave a little for flavor) over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and just cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon.
  8. Spoon creamy grits into serving bowls. Top with Cajun shrimp and scatter crispy bacon over each bowl.
  9. Garnish with sliced scallions, parsley, and a dash of hot sauce if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For gluten-free, check Cajun seasoning ingredients. For dairy-free, substitute milk and cheese with plant-based alternatives. Use turkey bacon for a lighter option. Grits are best cooked low and slow for creaminess. Prep toppings while grits cook to save time. Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days; reheat grits gently with extra milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp and grits, Cajun shrimp, Southern comfort food, bacon, brunch, easy dinner, gluten-free, creamy grits, spicy shrimp, comfort bowl

Find it online: https://lucydishes.com/cajun-shrimp-and-grits-bowl-recipe-with-crispy-bacon-easy-southern-comfort/