Dive into the heart of Southern cuisine with our irresistible Slow Cooker Cheesy Grits and Shrimp! This dish is a warm hug on a plate, combining the creamy comfort of grits with succulent shrimp, all infused with rich flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive gathering with friends, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also allows you to enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your home while it cooks. Get ready to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings with this decadent dish that’s sure to become a new favorite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup grits
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the slow cooker by lightly greasing the interior with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In the slow cooker, combine chicken broth and grits, whisking thoroughly to prevent lumps from forming. Ensure the grits are evenly distributed in the liquid.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat. Cook the grits for approximately 3-
- 5 hours, stirring occasionally to maintain smooth consistency and prevent scorching.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in minced garlic and heavy cream, blending well to create a rich and creamy texture.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese gradually, stirring until completely melted and incorporated into the grits.
- Season the grits with salt and pepper, adjusting to your preferred taste profile.
- In the final 15 minutes of cooking, add peeled and deveined shrimp to the top of the grits. Cover and allow shrimp to steam and cook until they turn pink and opaque.
- Once shrimp are cooked through and grits are creamy, turn off the slow cooker and let sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional cheese or chopped herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Grits: For the best texture, opt for stone-ground grits. They take a bit longer to cook but yield a creamier result compared to quick-cooking varieties.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow the grits to cook on low heat for the full 3-
- 5 hours. This slow cooking process helps develop a rich, deep flavor and creamy consistency.
- Stir Occasionally: Make sure to stir the grits every now and then during cooking to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the slow cooker and to ensure even cooking.
- Customize Your Cheese: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or pepper jack for an extra kick!
- Perfect Shrimp Cooking: Add the shrimp during the last 15 minutes of cooking to ensure they remain tender and juicy. Overcooking shrimp can make them tough, so keep an eye on them!
- Garnish for Presentation: Elevate your dish by garnishing with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives, or even a sprinkle of extra cheese for that extra touch of indulgence.
- Make It a Meal: Pair your cheesy grits and shrimp with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 250mg
