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Savory Garlic Butter Shrimp and Grits is a dish that truly encapsulates the essence of Southern comfort food. This delightful combination features succulent shrimp bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce, paired with creamy, cheesy grits that provide the perfect base. While it might seem like a dish reserved for special occasions, its simplicity makes it ideal for both weeknight dinners and celebratory gatherings. In this article, we will explore the rich history of this classic dish, delve into the key ingredients that elevate its flavors, and provide a step-by-step guide to preparing a meal that will surely impress your family and friends.

Savory Garlic Butter Shrimp and Grits

Discover the rich flavors of Savory Garlic Butter Shrimp and Grits, a beloved Southern comfort food that's perfect for any occasion. This dish combines succulent shrimp in a rich garlic butter sauce with creamy, cheesy grits for a satisfying meal. Learn about its origins, the importance of quality ingredients, and step-by-step instructions to master this iconic recipe. Impress your family and friends with this comforting, delectable dish that celebrates Southern culinary traditions.
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Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

For the Grits:

1 cup stone-ground grits

4 cups water or chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Grits:

    - In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water or chicken broth to a vigorous boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits, stirring continuously to prevent any lumps from forming.

      - After incorporating the grits, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally until the grits reach a thick and creamy consistency.

        - Once the grits are cooked, remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and 2 tablespoons of butter. Season generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to suit your taste. Keep covered and set aside to keep warm.

          Cook the Shrimp:

            - In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 1 minute, or until the garlic is fragrant, making sure not to allow it to brown.

              - Introduce the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Sprinkle with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, gently stirring to ensure even cooking, until the shrimp are pink and opaque.

                - Remove the skillet from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp, gently tossing to blend the flavors. Allow the mixture to rest for an additional minute for the flavors to combine.

                  Assemble the Dish:

                    - To serve, spoon a generous amount of the creamy, cheesy grits onto each plate, creating a small well in the center for the shrimp.

                      - Neatly pile the garlic butter shrimp atop the grits, ensuring a good distribution of the buttery sauce.

                        - For a vibrant touch, garnish with finely chopped parsley and a sprinkle of green onions.

                          Serve:

                            - Serve immediately while hot and creamy for the best experience. Enjoy your exquisite Savory Garlic Butter Shrimp and Grits that is sure to impress!

                              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 40 minutes | 4 servings