Ingredients
Method
Cook the Grits:
- In a medium saucepan, bring the water (or chicken broth) to a boil. Stir in the salt and slowly pour in the grits, whisking continuously to prevent clumps. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Once the grits are creamy and tender, stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, butter, black pepper, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Keep warm.
Prepare the Shrimp:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, but keep the rendered fat in the skillet.
- In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften, about 2 minutes.
- Season the shrimp with Old Bay seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 3-5 minutes, until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and mix everything well.
Serve:
- Spoon the creamy grits into bowls and top generously with the shrimp mixture. Garnish with sliced green onions and chopped parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the dish.
Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 50 min | Servings: 4
