Description

Craving a soul-warming, Southern-inspired dish that’s both comforting and packed with bold flavors? Look no further than Slow Cooker Shrimp and Grits! This classic Lowcountry recipe combines creamy, cheesy grits with succulent shrimp, smoky bacon, and a kick of Cajun seasoning, all effortlessly prepared in a slow cooker with a quick skillet finish for the shrimp

Ingredients

Shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined): Tender and sweet, the star protein.
- Substitution: Scallops, crawfish, or firm tofu for a vegetarian option (adjust cooking time for tofu).
Quick-Cooking Grits (1 cup): Creates a creamy, comforting base.
- Substitution: Polenta or stone-ground grits (increase cooking time slightly for stone-ground).
Chicken Broth (4 cups): Adds savory depth to the grits.
- Substitution: Vegetable broth or water with a bouillon cube.
Heavy Cream (½ cup): Enhances the grits’ creaminess.
- Substitution: Half-and-half, whole milk, or coconut cream for dairy-free.
Cheddar Cheese (½ cup, shredded): Brings sharp, cheesy richness.
- Substitution: Gouda, Monterey Jack, or vegan cheddar.
Bacon (4 slices, chopped): Adds smoky, savory flavor.
- Substitution: Turkey bacon, pancetta, or smoked mushrooms for vegetarian.
Onion (1, chopped): Provides sweet, savory depth.
- Substitution: Shallots, leeks, or 1 tsp onion powder.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth.
- Substitution: ¾ tsp garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
Cajun Seasoning (1 tsp): Delivers spicy, smoky flavor.
- Substitution: Creole seasoning, Old Bay, or a mix of paprika, cayenne, and thyme.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Enhances all the flavors.
- Substitution: Sea salt or low-sodium options for dietary needs.
Green Onions (for garnish): Adds fresh, mild onion flavor and color.
- Substitution: Chives, parsley, or no garnish.

Why They’re Important: The shrimp provide a delicate, protein-rich topping, grits create a creamy canvas, and bacon and cheese add indulgent depth. Cajun seasoning brings Southern flair, while green onions elevate the dish with freshness and vibrancy.

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Instructions

Step 1: Combine Grits and Base Ingredients

In the slow cooker, add 4 cups chicken broth and 1 cup quick-cooking grits. Stir well to prevent lumps.
Add 4 slices chopped bacon, 1 chopped onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of pepper.
Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Tip: Spray the slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent grits from sticking. Chop bacon and onion finely for even flavor distribution.

Step 2: Cook the Grits

Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, stirring occasionally (every 1-2 hours if possible), until the grits are creamy and tender.
Check at the 4-hour mark to ensure the grits aren’t overcooking; they should be smooth and thick.
- Tip: If the grits look too thick, add ¼ cup more broth or water and stir. If too thin, cook uncovered for the last 15-30 minutes.

Step 3: Finish the Grits

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in ½ cup heavy cream and ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning if needed.
- Tip: For extra richness, add 1 tbsp butter with the cream, or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tbsp olive oil or butter.
Add 1 lb peeled and deveined shrimp, season lightly with salt and pepper, and sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
Remove from heat and set aside.
- Tip: Don’t overcook the shrimp, as they’ll continue to warm in the grits. For extra flavor, sprinkle with a pinch of Cajun seasoning during cooking.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Gently stir the cooked shrimp into the creamy grits, or spoon shrimp over individual portions for a prettier presentation.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions for freshness and color.
- Tip: Use a ladle to serve the grits, ensuring a mix of bacon and onions in each portion, and arrange shrimp artfully on top for a restaurant-quality look.