Description
Shrimp and Grits Bites are a fun and elegant twist on the Southern classic. Creamy, cheesy grits are baked into bite-sized rounds and topped with juicy, Cajun-seasoned shrimp. Perfect as an appetizer for parties, brunch, or game day gatherings!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup quick-cooking grits
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tbsp flour (optional, for firmness)
- 16–20 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- Chopped chives or green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Make the Grits: In a saucepan, bring water and milk to a boil. Stir in grits and salt, reduce heat, and cook for 5–7 minutes until thickened. Stir in cheese and butter until melted. Let cool slightly, then mix in beaten egg (and flour if using).
- Form Bites: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin. Spoon grits mixture into the cups and smooth tops. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until firm and golden. Let cool slightly before removing.
- Cook the Shrimp: Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning. In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Sear shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
- Assemble Bites: Top each grits round with one shrimp. Garnish with chopped chives or green onions. Serve warm.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a splash of cream to the grits.
- You can make the grits base ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Try adding crispy bacon bits or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg