Description

These Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites take the comforting flavors of the traditional Southern dish and transform them into crispy, bite-sized appetizers. Creamy, cheesy grits are cooled, cut, and fried until golden, then topped with spiced shrimp and smoky bacon for the ultimate flavor-packed bite.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Grits:

1 cup stone-ground grits
3 cups chicken broth (or water)
1 cup whole milk
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Shrimp:

12 medium shrimp, peeled & deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon lemon juice

For Frying & Topping:

½ cup all-purpose flour
1 egg, beaten
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
½ cup cooked crumbled bacon
Chopped green onions (for garnish)
Oil for frying

Instructions

1. Cook the Grits:

In a saucepan, bring chicken broth and milk to a simmer. Slowly whisk in grits, salt, and pepper. Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, for 15-20 minutes, until thick. Remove from heat and stir in cheese, butter, and smoked paprika.

2. Chill the Grits:

Spread the grits evenly into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, until firm.

3. Cut & Fry the Grits:

Once firm, cut the grits into bite-sized squares or circles. Dredge each piece in flour, dip in beaten egg, then coat with panko breadcrumbs. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden. Drain on paper towels.

4. Cook the Shrimp:

In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and lemon juice. Sauté in a skillet over medium heat for 2 minutes per side, until cooked through.

5. Assemble & Serve:

Top each crispy grits bite with one shrimp, crumbled bacon, and green onions. Serve warm with hot sauce or remoulade on the side.

Notes

For extra flavor, mix some crumbled bacon into the grits before chilling.
Make it spicy by adding cayenne to the shrimp seasoning.
Air-fry the bites at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes for a lighter version.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: ~180 per bite