Irresistible Shrimp and Cheesy Grits Bites Recipe

The aroma of sizzling shrimp dances through the air, mingling with the creamy, cheesy grits that are bubbling away on the stove. You can almost hear them singing a duet of delight as they prepare to become the life of your next gathering. If you’ve ever wanted an appetizer that feels like a warm hug and tastes like a party in your mouth, look no further than shrimp and cheesy grits bites. These little wonders promise to be the star of your culinary repertoire, bringing smiles and satisfied bellies wherever they go.

You might have a memory etched in your mind of family gatherings filled with laughter and delicious food. Perhaps it was that one time Aunt Doris brought her infamous cheesy grits to the potluck, and everyone was fighting for seconds. This recipe channels that nostalgia while adding a twist—shrimp! Perfect for game day, brunch with friends, or just because you deserve something scrumptious today, these bites are sure to elevate any occasion.

Ingredients for Shrimp and Cheesy Grits Bites

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Grits: Choose quick-cooking grits for speed or stone-ground for texture; either way, they’re essential for creaminess.
• Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen shrimp; just make sure they’re peeled and deveined for easy cooking.
• Cheddar Cheese: Go for sharp cheddar; it adds depth and richness to those creamy grits.
• Milk: Whole milk works best here; it gives the grits their luxurious texture.
• Butter: A must-have ingredient for enhancing flavor; don’t skimp on this one!
• Green Onions: Fresh green onions add a delightful crunch and mild onion flavor.
• Old Bay Seasoning: This blend enhances the shrimp’s natural flavors; it’s like sunshine in a spice jar!
• Panko Breadcrumbs: For that satisfying crunch on the outside; trust me, you want this texture contrast.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Shrimp and Cheesy Grits Bites

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Grits

In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add salt to taste and stir in the grits. Reduce heat to low and cook according to package instructions until thickened—about five minutes for quick-cooking grits.

Step 2: Add Creaminess

Once thickened, stir in milk and butter until smooth. Then mix in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted. Set aside while you tackle those shrimp.

Step 3: Prepare the Shrimp

In a skillet over medium heat, melt some butter and add your shrimp along with Old Bay seasoning. Cook until pink and cooked through—about three minutes per side should do it.

Step 4: Combine Shrimp with Grits

Fold the cooked shrimp into your cheesy grits mixture along with some chopped green onions. Make sure every bite has a little bit of that succulent shrimp goodness.

Step 5: Shape Into Bites

Let the mixture cool slightly before scooping out portions onto a lined baking sheet. Form into small balls or patties—roughly two inches wide—so they’re easy to pop into your mouth!

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll each bite in Panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch before placing them back on the baking sheet. Bake for about twenty minutes or until golden brown.

Transfer to plates and serve hot! These shrimp and cheesy grits bites are perfect as is or paired with cocktail sauce or remoulade for dipping.

Now you’re ready to impress friends, family, or even yourself with these delectable bites! Enjoy every cheesy morsel as they take you on a trip down memory lane filled with laughter, good times—and maybe just a little too much food!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the grits first. While they simmer to creamy perfection, prepare your shrimp by seasoning them well. Once the grits are ready, fold in cheese for that gooey goodness, then mix in the shrimp before frying until golden brown.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the cheese for your favorite variety or add spices like cayenne for a little kick. You could also toss in some sautéed bell peppers for added flavor and color. The possibilities are endless!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover shrimp and cheesy grits bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.

I remember the first time I made these shrimp and cheesy grits bites for a family gathering. My cousin took one bite and declared it as “life-changing.” It was a proud moment!

FAQs

What are Shrimp and Cheesy Grits Bites?

Shrimp and Cheesy Grits Bites are a delightful appetizer or snack that combines the rich flavors of shrimp with creamy, cheesy grits. These bites are typically made by mixing cooked shrimp with a flavorful cheese-infused grit mixture, then shaping them into small balls or patties and frying or baking until golden brown. They offer a perfect blend of Southern comfort food with an elegant touch, making them ideal for parties or casual gatherings.

How can I make Shrimp and Cheesy Grits Bites healthier?

To make Shrimp and Cheesy Grits Bites healthier, consider using whole grain grits instead of regular ones. You can also opt for low-fat cheese options to cut down on calories while still providing that creamy texture. Instead of frying, bake the bites in the oven for a crispy finish without all the added oil. Additionally, incorporating more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers into the mixture adds nutrients while enhancing flavor.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp and Cheesy Grits Bites?

Yes, you can absolutely use frozen shrimp for Shrimp and Cheesy Grits Bites. Just ensure you thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Quick methods include placing them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes or leaving them overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, pat them dry to remove excess moisture before mixing them with your cheesy grit mixture for better texture and flavor.

What dishes pair well with Shrimp and Cheesy Grits Bites?

Shrimp and Cheesy Grits Bites pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes. For a complete meal, serve them alongside a fresh salad topped with vinaigrette or coleslaw for crunch. You can also offer dipping sauces like remoulade or spicy aioli to complement their flavor. For drinks, consider serving a chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea to round out your meal perfectly.

Conclusion for Shrimp and Cheesy Grits Bites

In conclusion, Shrimp and Cheesy Grits Bites are a scrumptious treat that brings together the best of Southern cuisine. Their creamy texture paired with succulent shrimp makes them an irresistible appetizer. Whether you choose to fry or bake them, these bites will surely impress your guests at any gathering. By customizing ingredients for healthiness or pairing them with complementary dishes, you can enhance your dining experience even further. Enjoy making this delightful dish!

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Shrimp and Cheesy Grits Bites

• Author: Sarah
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern

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Description

Indulge in these crispy, creamy shrimp and cheesy grits bites – the perfect appetizer to elevate any gathering with a burst of Southern flavors.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup quick-cooking grits
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 tbsp butter (plus more for cooking shrimp)
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• Salt to taste

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Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add salt to taste and stir in the grits. Reduce heat to low and cook according to package instructions until thickened, about five minutes.
2. Once thickened, stir in milk and butter until smooth. Mix in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted. Set aside.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, melt some butter. Add shrimp and Old Bay seasoning; cook until pink and cooked through, about three minutes per side.
4. Fold cooked shrimp into the cheesy grits mixture along with chopped green onions.
5. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before scooping portions onto a lined baking sheet. Form small balls or patties, approximately two inches wide.
6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll each bite in Panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch before placing them back on the baking sheet.
7. Bake for about twenty minutes or until golden brown. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 bites (approx. 80g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, consider incorporating sautéed bell peppers into the mixture. - To make these bites healthier, use whole grain grits and low-fat cheese options.