Louisiana Shrimp and Grits (New Orleans Recipe)

Louisiana Shrimp and Grits (New Orleans Recipe) is a delicious dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Cajun cuisine right to your table. This recipe features creamy grits paired with savory turkey turkey turkey bacon or chicken sausage, topped with succulent shrimp in a spicy gravy. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this classic Southern dish captures the essence of New Orleans cooking, making it a delightful option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Experience: The combination of spices and cheeses creates a rich, comforting flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Versatile Meal: Suitable for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this recipe can easily be adapted to fit any time of day.
• Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can master this classic dish.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or family meals, this Louisiana Shrimp and Grits recipe is sure to impress your guests.
• Healthy Option: Using turkey turkey turkey bacon or chicken sausage provides a lighter twist while still maintaining great taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make Louisiana Shrimp and Grits successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking grits evenly without burning.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing shrimp and turkey turkey bacon/sausage to achieve that golden-brown texture.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring grits without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

This Cajun New Orleans Shrimp and Grits recipe is made with creamy grits, turkey turkey turkey bacon or chicken sausage, and well-seasoned spicy gravy. This is a classic Southern Louisiana dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.

For the Grits

• 2 ¼ cup chicken broth (You can also substitute water. See notes.)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup stone ground grits
• 1 cup milk (Any milk will work. See notes.)
• 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan reggiano cheese

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound raw shrimp (Peeled and deveined.)
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 slices turkey turkey turkey bacon or 3oz chicken chicken chicken andouille sausage (Diced into small pieces 1/4inch thick.)
• 1/2 cup chopped white onions
• 3 garlic cloves (Minced)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Cajun Seasoning (Start with 1/2 teaspoon. Taste repeatedly and adjust to taste as needed.)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

How to Make Louisiana Shrimp and Grits (New Orleans Recipe)

Step 1: Prepare the Grits

1. In a large pot, bring 2 ¼ cups of chicken broth to a boil.
2. Stir in 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 teaspoon of salt.
3. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of stone ground grits.
4. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Add Cheese

1. Once the grits are cooked, stir in 1 cup of milk.
2. Add in ½ cup of shredded white cheddar cheese and ¼ cup of Parmesan reggiano cheese until melted and creamy.
3. Remove from heat; set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook diced turkey turkey turkey bacon or chicken sausage until browned.
2. Add chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant.
3. Stir in shrimp seasoned with Old Bay Seasoning; cook until shrimp turns pink.
4. Pour in additional chicken broth along with Cajun seasoning; simmer briefly.

Step 4: Serve

1. Spoon creamy grits onto plates or bowls.
2. Top generously with shrimp mixture from the skillet.
3. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Louisiana Shrimp and Grits!

How to Serve Louisiana Shrimp and Grits (New Orleans Recipe)

Serving Louisiana Shrimp and Grits can elevate any meal, whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dinner. This dish is rich and flavorful, making it perfect for gathering friends and family around the table. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle finely chopped green onions on top for a pop of color and mild onion flavor.
• Fresh Parsley: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley to brighten the dish and add freshness.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty French Bread: Serve warm slices of crusty French bread for dipping into the creamy grits.
• Cornbread: A slice of moist cornbread complements the dish well and adds a traditional Southern touch.

Include a Salad

• Simple Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette balances the richness of the shrimp and grits.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, enhancing the overall meal experience.

Offer Hot Sauce

• Spicy Hot Sauce: Provide a selection of hot sauces on the side for those who like an extra kick in their dish.

How to Perfect Louisiana Shrimp and Grits (New Orleans Recipe)

Creating the perfect bowl of Louisiana Shrimp and Grits requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Choose Quality Grits: Opt for stone-ground grits for better texture and flavor. They cook up creamier than instant varieties.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with seasoning. Taste as you go, especially when adding Cajun seasoning, to achieve your desired spice level.
• Cook Shrimp Just Right: Cook shrimp until just pink. Overcooking can make them rubbery.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and herbs will enhance the flavor profile significantly compared to dried or old ingredients.
• Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar adds great flavor, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gouda or Gruyère for added depth.
• Let Grits Rest: Allow grits to sit off heat for a few minutes after cooking. This lets them thicken up even more before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Louisiana Shrimp and Grits (New Orleans Recipe)

Pairing side dishes with Louisiana Shrimp and Grits can round out your meal beautifully. Here’s a list of delicious options that complement this classic Southern dish perfectly.

1. Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy on the outside and tangy inside, they add texture and flavor contrast.
2. Collard Greens: A Southern staple, these greens provide a savory depth that pairs well with shrimp.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus adds color and is easy to prepare alongside your main dish.
4. Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs make for a delightful appetizer that guests will love.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness contrasts nicely with the spiciness of shrimp and grits, creating balance on your plate.
6. Buttermilk Biscuit: Fluffy biscuits are great for soaking up any leftover sauce from your shrimp dish.
7. Rice Pilaf: A light rice pilaf offers another hearty option without overwhelming the flavors of shrimp and grits.
8. Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad brings comfort food vibes that pair well with this classic recipe.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make simple mistakes when preparing Louisiana Shrimp and Grits. Avoiding these errors will help you create a delicious dish.

• Using instant grits: Instant grits lack the flavor and texture of stone ground grits. Always choose stone ground for a richer taste.
• Overcooking shrimp: Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink for the best results.
• Neglecting seasoning: A bland dish can ruin your meal. Use the right amount of Cajun seasoning and Old Bay for bold flavors.
• Forgetting to taste as you go: Skipping this step can lead to an unbalanced dish. Taste frequently and adjust seasonings as needed.
• Using low-quality broth: Poor broth can affect the entire dish’s flavor. Opt for homemade or high-quality chicken broth for the best outcome.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Louisiana Shrimp and Grits (New Orleans Recipe)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Best consumed within 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Louisiana Shrimp and Grits (New Orleans Recipe)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring every minute until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to help restore creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Louisiana Shrimp and Grits (New Orleans Recipe) special?

The combination of creamy grits with spicy seasoned shrimp creates a comforting, flavorful dish unique to Southern cuisine.

Can I customize my Louisiana Shrimp and Grits?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or swap out proteins based on your preference.

How do I ensure my grits are creamy?

Use enough liquid, such as chicken broth or milk, and stir continuously while cooking for that perfect creamy texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components separately and combine them just before serving for the best taste.

Conclusion

Louisiana Shrimp and Grits is a versatile dish perfect for any meal of the day. Its creamy texture combined with well-seasoned shrimp makes it an instant favorite. Don’t hesitate to customize it according to your taste preferences!

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