Shrimp and Gouda Grits – Indulge in the delectable harmony of flavors with our Shrimp and Gouda Grits recipe. This dish combines succulent shrimp, creamy cheeses, and a touch of spice to create a truly unforgettable experience for your taste buds. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply crave a comforting and flavorful meal, this recipe is a must-try. Join us on a culinary journey that will leave you craving more.
Picture this: a cozy evening at home with your loved ones. The aromas of sizzling shrimp, crispy bacon, and creamy cheeses fill the air, instantly putting a smile on everyone’s faces. This is the story of how our Shrimp and Gouda Grits recipe became a cherished favorite in our household. Every time we make it, my husband’s eyes light up with excitement, and our little family gathers around the table, eager to savor every bite. It has become a symbol of warmth, togetherness, and pure culinary delight.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try?
- Unforgettable Flavors: The combination of succulent shrimp, creamy Gouda cheese, and the smoky richness of bacon creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.
- Perfectly Creamy Grits: Our yellow corn grits are cooked to perfection in a savory chicken broth, infused with the richness of reduced-fat cream cheese. The result is a velvety smoothness that complements the shrimp beautifully.
- Slight Heat and Crispy Texture: A hint of cayenne and the addition of Brussels sprouts deliver a gentle kick and crispy texture, adding depth and excitement to each bite.
- Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps and readily available ingredients, this recipe can be whipped up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Ingredients:
- 225 grams (1/2 lb.) peeled and deveined shrimp
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
- 100 grams (about 6-8 sprouts) Brussels sprouts, very thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 475 ml (2 cups) chicken broth
- 115 grams (1/2 cup) yellow corn grits
- 57 grams (2 ounces) reduced-fat cream cheese
- 40 grams (1/3 cup) Gouda cheese
- 40 grams (1/3 cup) shredded sharp cheddar
- 2-3 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 2 slices bacon, chopped
Directions:
For the Toppings:
In a large skillet, cook two slices of bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon from the skillet and roughly chop it.
Wipe the skillet clean, then add 1 teaspoon of olive oil and the shredded Brussels sprouts. Cook, stirring occasionally, for approximately 3 minutes until the sprouts are lightly browned and crispy. Set aside.
For the Grits:
In a medium to large saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the grits and reduce the heat to low. Cover and let the grits simmer for 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
When the grits have absorbed the liquid, add the cream cheese, Gouda cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir the mixture well, cover, and remove from heat.
For the Shrimp:
Place the shrimp in a large plastic bag or mixing bowl. Add the garlic powder, oregano, cayenne, and garlic salt. Toss until the shrimp is well coated.
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 3 minutes on each side or until the shrimp is pink and tender.
To Serve:
Assemble the shrimp and grits by adding a heaping serving of grits to two shallow bowls.
Top the grits with the cooked shrimp, chopped green onions, chopped bacon, and additional pepper for added flavor.
Notes:
- For a milder spice level, reduce the amount of cayenne used.
- Experiment with different cheeses to personalize the flavor profile of your grits.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
In conclusion, our Shrimp and Gouda Grits recipe is a culinary masterpiece that brings together the irresistible flavors of succulent shrimp, creamy cheeses, and crispy bacon. This dish has the power to create lasting memories, turning any mealtime into a cherished moment of togetherness and delight. Whether you’re seeking a comforting weeknight dinner or planning a special gathering with loved ones, this recipe is sure to impress. So go ahead, take a leap into a world of taste sensations, and let our Shrimp and Gouda Grits recipe become a staple in your kitchen. Get ready to savor every bite and experience pure culinary bliss.
FAQs
Can I use different types of shrimp?
Yes, you can use different types of shrimp based on your preference. Whether you opt for large, medium, or small shrimp, the recipe will still turn out delicious.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Absolutely! You can substitute the shrimp with tofu, tempeh, or your favorite vegetarian protein alternative. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Ensure that the chicken broth and spices you use are gluten-free, and choose a brand of corn grits that is certified gluten-free.
Shrimp and Gouda Grits
Ingredients
- 225 grams 1/2 lb. peeled and deveined shrimp
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
- 100 grams about 6-8 sprouts Brussels sprouts, very thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 475 ml 2 cups chicken broth
- 115 grams 1/2 cup yellow corn grits
- 57 grams 2 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese
- 40 grams 1/3 cup Gouda cheese
- 40 grams 1/3 cup shredded sharp cheddar
- 2-3 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 2 slices bacon chopped
Instructions
For the Toppings:
- In a large skillet, cook two slices of bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon from the skillet and roughly chop it.
- Wipe the skillet clean, then add 1 teaspoon of olive oil and the shredded Brussels sprouts. Cook, stirring occasionally, for approximately 3 minutes until the sprouts are lightly browned and crispy. Set aside.
For the Grits:
- In a medium to large saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the grits and reduce the heat to low. Cover and let the grits simmer for 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- When the grits have absorbed the liquid, add the cream cheese, Gouda cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir the mixture well, cover, and remove from heat.
For the Shrimp:
- Place the shrimp in a large plastic bag or mixing bowl. Add the garlic powder, oregano, cayenne, and garlic salt. Toss until the shrimp is well coated.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 3 minutes on each side or until the shrimp is pink and tender.
To Serve:
- Assemble the shrimp and grits by adding a heaping serving of grits to two shallow bowls.
- Top the grits with the cooked shrimp, chopped green onions, chopped bacon, and additional pepper for added flavor.
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