Description
Lemon Garlic Shrimp & Grits is a classic Southern-inspired dish featuring creamy, cheesy grits topped with tender shrimp sautéed in a flavorful garlic-lemon butter sauce. Perfect for a comforting breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this recipe combines the rich texture of parmesan-infused grits with zesty and aromatic shrimp for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Grits
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Quick Grits (Quaker Original)
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
Shrimp
- 3 Tbsp butter
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb shrimp
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 Tbsp fresh parsley or 1 Tbsp dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Grits: Bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil over high heat in a saucepan. Once boiling, add ½ cup quick grits along with ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp pepper. Stir the mixture well, cover with a lid, and reduce the heat to medium. Allow the grits to cook until all the liquid is absorbed, about 5 minutes.
- Finish the Grits: After the liquid is fully absorbed, remove the grits from heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 cup of shredded parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Keep the grits covered and warm while you prepare the shrimp.
- Sauté the Garlic: In a separate pan over medium heat, add 3 tablespoons butter, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and 4 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden, taking care not to burn it.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add 1 pound of shrimp to the pan along with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the shrimp, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and are cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Lemon and Parsley: Remove the pan from heat and immediately squeeze the juice of 1 lemon over the shrimp. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley) and gently toss to combine.
- Serve: Spoon the creamy parmesan grits onto plates and top with the lemon garlic shrimp. Serve immediately to enjoy the full flavors and creamy texture.
Notes
- Use quick grits for faster preparation, but traditional stone-ground grits can be used with longer cooking time.
- Adjust the garlic quantity based on your preference for pungency.
- Fresh parsley adds a vibrant color and fresh flavor, but dried works well in a pinch.
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream or milk to the grits when stirring in butter and cheese.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
