Shrimp and grits is a classic Southern dish, but it can often seem intimidating to make. Fear not! This recipe simplifies the process by utilizing the magic of one-pot cooking in a bag – making cleanup a breeze and delivering a flavorful, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. Get ready for tender shrimp, creamy grits, and a burst of savory goodness, all cooked conveniently in a single bag!
What You'll Need:
This recipe serves two. Adjust ingredient quantities as needed for more servings.
- For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Grits:
- 1 cup coarse ground grits (not quick-cooking)
- 3 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional additions: Chopped green onions, chopped bacon or sausage, andouille sausage, or a splash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Ingredients: Peel and devein the shrimp. Measure out all other ingredients and have them ready to go.
-
Combine in a Bag: Place the grits, chicken broth, milk, butter, salt, and pepper in a large, heavy-duty freezer bag (at least 2 gallon size). Ensure the bag is fully sealed before adding other ingredients.
-
Add Shrimp and Seasonings: Add the shrimp, olive oil, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to the bag. Gently seal the bag, pressing out as much air as possible. Make sure the bag is securely sealed to prevent leaks during cooking.
-
Cook in Boiling Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully place the sealed bag in the boiling water, ensuring it's fully submerged.
-
Simmer: Reduce heat to a gentle simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the grits are cooked through and the shrimp is pink and opaque. Gently move the bag around occasionally to ensure even cooking.
-
Remove and Serve: Carefully remove the bag from the boiling water using tongs. Let it cool slightly before opening (it will be very hot!). Carefully snip a small corner of the bag to release the steam. Gently pour the shrimp and grits into bowls.
-
Garnish and Enjoy: Top with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, chopped green onions, bacon bits, or a dash of hot sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, easy shrimp and grits!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use quick-cooking grits?
While you can use quick-cooking grits, the texture might not be as creamy as with coarse ground grits. Coarse ground grits require a longer cooking time to achieve that perfect creamy consistency.
What if my shrimp is overcooked?
Overcooked shrimp will become tough and rubbery. It's best to err on the side of caution and slightly undercook the shrimp, as it will continue to cook slightly from the residual heat.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
This recipe is best served fresh, as the grits can become thick and less creamy when reheated. However, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble the bag just before cooking.
Can I use other types of seafood?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other types of seafood, such as scallops, crawfish, or even a combination of seafood. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, depending on the type of seafood used.
What kind of bag should I use?
Use a heavy-duty freezer bag designed to withstand boiling water. Avoid using flimsy bags, as they may break or leak during cooking.
This easy one-pot shrimp and grits recipe is a perfect weeknight meal. The convenience of cooking everything in one bag means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your delicious creation. Bon appétit!
