Shrimp Parmesan Grits Bowl (Printable)

Creamy Parmesan grits, garlicky shrimp, fresh herbs—classic Southern comfort in a bowl.

# Ingredient list:

→ Parmesan Grits

01 - 1 cup stone-ground grits
02 - 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water
03 - 1 cup whole milk
04 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
05 - 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
06 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Shrimp

08 - 1 1/2 pounds large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
09 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
10 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
11 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
12 - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
13 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
14 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
15 - Juice of 1/2 lemon
16 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

→ Garnish

17 - Extra grated Parmesan cheese
18 - Chopped chives or scallions

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - In a medium saucepan, pour in chicken broth and whole milk. Set over medium heat until gently simmering. Gradually whisk in stone-ground grits to avoid clumping, then lower heat to maintain a light simmer. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture is thick and creamy.
02 - Once grits are cooked, stir in unsalted butter, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and velvety. Cover saucepan to keep warm while preparing shrimp.
03 - Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. In a mixing bowl, combine shrimp with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat all pieces evenly.
04 - In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add seasoned shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
05 - Remove skillet from heat. Squeeze lemon juice over the shrimp and toss with chopped fresh parsley until evenly distributed.
06 - Spoon hot Parmesan grits into serving bowls. Top each portion with sautéed shrimp, extra Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped chives or scallions.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses everyday staples you likely have on hand
  • Ready in under an hour even with from-scratch grits
  • Balanced flavors with a little kick and plenty of freshness
  • Gluten-free and easily adaptable for pescatarian or vegetarian diets
  • Perfect for both relaxed Sunday suppers and quick midweek meals
02 -
  • High protein meal to keep you satisfied
  • Stone ground grits have a lovely texture compared to instant varieties
  • This dish is naturally gluten free but double check your broth and cheese
  • Fresh shrimp make all the difference and keep this dish tasting light
03 -
  • Never walk away from the grits in the early stages constant whisking is your secret to silkiness
  • Taste often and season boldly A finishing squeeze of lemon keeps every bite bright

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