Yields: 20-24 bites
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Grits Bites
- 1 cup quick-cooking grits
- 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (or your favorite seafood seasoning blend)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Other
- 4-5 slices bacon (optional, for richer flavor)
- 2-3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Make the Grits
- Cook grits: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until creamy and thickened, stirring occasionally.
- Add Flavor: Remove from heat and stir in the butter, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Chill: Pour the grits mixture into a greased 8×8 inch baking dish. Spread evenly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm enough to handle.
2. Prepare the Shrimp
- Season: Pat the shrimp dry and toss with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Cook: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Set aside.
3. Optional Bacon Boost
- Cook bacon: Cook bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble.
- Incorporate: Mix half of the crumbled bacon into the chilled grits for extra flavor.
4. Assemble the Bites
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut Grits: Once the grits are chilled, use a 1.5-inch round cookie cutter to cut out circles. Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake the grits rounds for 15-20 minutes, or until slightly golden and firm.
- Top and Serve: Top each warm grits bite with a cooked shrimp and sprinkle with green onions and additional crumbled bacon (if using). Serve immediately.
Tips
Shrimp Size: For the best bites, use medium-sized shrimp.
Grits Variations: Use smoked cheddar or other flavored cheeses for different twists.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the grits mixture and refrigerate the day before. Assemble and bake just before serving.
