Get ready to transport your taste buds to the heart of the South with this mouthwatering Crockpot Shrimp and Grits recipe that promises to be your new comfort food obsession! Imagine creamy, cheesy grits slow-cooked to perfection, embracing plump, succulent shrimp in a dish so delicious, it'll make your family beg for seconds. Whether you're a Southern cuisine enthusiast or just looking for an effortless yet impressive meal, this recipe is about to become your kitchen's star performer.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup grits
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the grits by combining chicken broth and grits in the crockpot, whisking thoroughly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Cover the crockpot and set to low heat, cooking the grits for approximately 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure smooth consistency.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese is completely melted and incorporated.
- Season the raw shrimp with salt and pepper, ensuring even coating of the spices.
- Gently fold the seasoned shrimp into the creamy grits during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking, allowing them to become tender and absorb the flavors.
- Check that shrimp are pink and fully cooked, which typically takes about 15 minutes in the crockpot.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot, garnishing with optional chopped green onions or additional cheese if desired.
Tips
- Whisk Thoroughly: When adding grits to chicken broth, whisk vigorously to prevent those dreaded lumps from forming.
- Low and Slow is the Way: Use the low heat setting on your crockpot to ensure creamy, smooth grits that aren't scorched.
- Cheese Matters: Use freshly shredded cheddar for the best melting and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese can sometimes be less creamy.
- Shrimp Timing is Crucial: Add shrimp only in the last 15-20 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking and rubbery texture.
- Season Generously: Don't be shy with salt and pepper - they bring out the rich flavors of both the grits and shrimp.
- Optional Garnish: Chopped green onions or a sprinkle of extra cheese can elevate the presentation and add a fresh touch.
- Check Shrimp Doneness: Shrimp are perfectly cooked when they turn pink and curl slightly - avoid overcooking!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 220mg
