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Homemade Smothered Shrimp and Parmesan Grits photo

Smothered Shrimp and Parmesan Grits

This Smothered Shrimp and Parmesan Grits dish is a comforting, flavorful celebration of Southern cuisine!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Southern
Keyword: Comfort Food, Grits, Seafood
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Grits:

  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup old-fashioned grits
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 medium onion, diced
  • 3 links Andouille sausage, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 can chicken broth (14-ounce)
  • 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained (14.5-ounce)
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun or Creole seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/3 cup heavy cream
  • Chopped parsley and sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions

Instructions:

  • In a large pot, combine 2 cups of chicken broth and 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, gradually whisk in 1 cup of old-fashioned grits along with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until the grits are thick and creamy.
  • Once the grits are cooked, remove them from heat and stir in 3/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of heavy cream, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Mix well until the cheese is melted and creamy. Keep the grits warm while you prepare the shrimp.
  • In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1/2 medium diced onion and 1/2 diced green bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. Next, add 3 diced links of Andouille sausage and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the sausage is browned.
  • Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux.
  • Slowly pour in 1 can of chicken broth and 1 can of undrained diced tomatoes. Mix well. Season with 2 teaspoons of Cajun or Creole seasoning and 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
  • Add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook for approximately 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Stir in 1/3 cup of heavy cream and let it simmer for another 2 minutes.
  • To serve, spoon a generous portion of the creamy Parmesan grits onto a plate and top with the smothered shrimp mixture. Garnish with chopped parsley and sliced green onions for a fresh touch.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Notes

  • Make sure to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
  • Don’t overcook the shrimp; they cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long.
  • Adjust the spiciness according to your preference by modifying the amount of Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and shrimp and add more vegetables instead.