As the sun dipped below the horizon, I busied myself in the kitchen trying to shake off the day’s monotony. It was when I reached into my pantry looking for ingredients to jazz up dinner that I discovered a pack of grits just patiently waiting to shine. That’s when inspiration struck! What if I combined those creamy, cheesy grits with succulent shrimp and a sprinkle of Cajun magic?
Thus began my delightful adventure in crafting Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites—bites that whisk you away to a coastal feast while being easy enough for any weeknight meal. Picture golden, crispy cakes with a soft, cheesy center bursting with flavor from plump shrimp and vibrant veggies. These little morsels are perfect for impressing guests at a gathering or simply treating yourself to a gourmet experience at home. Ready to take your taste buds on a journey? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!
Why are Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites irresistible?
Irresistible, these bites blend comfort and gourmet in every mouthful, perfect for those seeking a delectable twist on a classic. Golden-brown and crispy on the outside, they hide a creamy, cheesy center that bursts with flavor. Versatile enough for appetizers or main courses, they’re a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Quick to prepare, you can whip these up without much fuss, making weeknight dinners feel like a restaurant experience. For more exciting seafood ideas, check out our best shrimp recipes.
Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites Ingredients
• Get ready to create these delightful bites!
For the Grits
- Whole milk – adds creaminess to your grits, making them rich and flavorful.
- Quick-cooking grits – ensure a perfectly smooth texture; avoid instant grits for best results.
- Shredded smoked gouda or sharp cheddar – provides a deliciously cheesy and smoky flavor.
- Unsalted butter – brings a lush richness; feel free to substitute with olive oil if preferred.
- Cajun seasoning – the secret to infusing bold flavor into the grits; adjust to your spice level.
- Kosher salt – enhances the overall taste; make sure to season throughout for layered flavor.
For the Shrimp Mixture
- Medium shrimp – the star protein for these bites; always peel and devein for ease of eating.
- Celery – adds a fresh crunch; diced finely for even distribution in the mixture.
- Green bell pepper – provides color and sweetness; feel free to use a red bell pepper for a milder taste.
- Scallions – both the white and green parts add depth and brightness; slice thinly for even sautéing.
- Garlic – a must for aromatic flavor; finely chop for a more intense essence.
- Tomato paste – enriches the flavor base and adds a subtle tang.
For Coating & Frying
- All-purpose flour – acts as the first layer of coating for a perfect crisp outside.
- Large eggs – helps the breading adhere; beat them well for even coverage.
- Panko bread crumbs – gives a delightful crunch; can substitute with regular breadcrumbs in a pinch.
- Neutral oil – for frying; can use canola, vegetable, or light olive oil for cooking.
For Serving
- Remoulade sauce – a tasty option to elevate these bites; homemade or store-bought works well. Don’t forget to accompany your cheesy shrimp & grits bites with this sauce for an unforgettable dip.
How to Make Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites
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Simmer milk and water. In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, bring 2 1/2 cups of whole milk and 1 1/2 cups of water to a gentle simmer. This creamy base will set the stage for your grits.
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Whisk in grits. While whisking steadily, slowly pour in 1 cup of quick-cooking grits. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let them cook uncovered, stirring frequently, until thickened, about 7 minutes.
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Stir in flavors. Mix in 1 1/2 cups of shredded smoked gouda (or sharp cheddar), 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. Add kosher salt to taste, then spread the grits mixture into an 11″ x 8″ baking dish. Refrigerate until firm, about 30 minutes.
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Season shrimp. While your grits cool, pat 30 medium shrimp dry and place them in a large bowl. Season with kosher salt and 1 1/2 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning, tossing to coat evenly.
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Sauté veggies and shrimp. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add 2 stalks of finely chopped celery and 1/2 of a finely chopped green bell pepper, seasoning with salt. Cook until tender, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the white parts of 3 sliced scallions, 3 cloves of chopped garlic, and 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
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Cook shrimp. Create a space in the center of the skillet and add your seasoned shrimp. Cook, tossing occasionally, until the shrimp turn opaque and are cooked through, approximately 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer the mixture to a plate and keep warm.
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Shape the cakes. Using a 2″ round cutter, cut out 15 cakes from the chilled grits, about 1″ thick. Transfer each cake to a baking sheet and slice them in half horizontally, creating 30 half-inch thick disks.
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Bread the cakes. Set up three shallow bowls: one for 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (mixed with 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning), one for beaten eggs, and one for 1 cup of panko bread crumbs. Coat each cake in flour, dip it into the egg, and then press it into the panko. Place the coated cakes back on the baking sheet and freeze until firm, about 10 minutes.
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Fry the cakes. Heat 2 cups of neutral oil in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the cakes in batches, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy, about 1 to 2 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and season with a pinch of salt.
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Assemble and serve. Transfer the cakes to a serving platter and top each with a spoonful of the shrimp and vegetable mixture. Sprinkle with the green parts of the scallions and serve with remoulade on the side for dipping.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delicious recipe and make it your own!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute unsweetened almond milk and vegan cheese for a plant-based, creamy twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the grits mixture for an extra zing.
- Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or chives into the grits for a vibrant flavor boost.
- Seafood Medley: Swap shrimp for crab meat or scallops for a delightful variation on seafood flavors.
- Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of all-purpose flour and panko for a gluten-free option.
- Peppery Variation: Experiment with roasted red bell peppers in the shrimp mixture for a sweet, smoky profile.
- Zesty Citrus: Add lemon or lime zest to the remoulade sauce for a fresh tang that brightens every bite.
- Savory Cheese: Mix in crumbled feta or blue cheese for a bold and tangy flavor throughout your bites.
These variations will ensure every family meal or gathering brings something fresh and exciting to the table!
Make Ahead Options
Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the grits mixture and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance; just be sure to let it cool completely before layering it in the baking dish to prevent excess moisture. The shaped cakes can also be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw them in the fridge overnight and follow the frying instructions for that perfect golden-brown finish. This way, your delightful bites are just as delicious with minimal effort, saving you time on busy weeknights that still leave room for comfort food magic!
Expert Tips for Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites
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Choose Quality Grits: Use quick-cooking grits instead of instant for smooth, creamy texture; this makes a big difference in your bites.
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Avoid Overcooking Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until opaque; overcooking can make them tough. Keep a watchful eye as you sauté for perfect texture.
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Layer Flavors: Don’t skip seasoning each component. From the grits to the shrimp, season with Cajun seasoning and salt throughout for a well-rounded flavor.
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Perfect the Coat: Ensure each grits cake is evenly coated in flour, egg, and panko for that delightful crunch; pressing the panko helps it stick better.
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Serve Warm: These cheesy shrimp & grits bites are best enjoyed warm and crispy! Prep ahead and fry just before serving for optimal taste.
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Experiment with Dips: Try different sauces like spicy remoulade, ranch, or a tangy aioli to add your own personal touch and enhance flavors.
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites
Fridge: Store leftover cheesy shrimp & grits bites in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain their crispy texture.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the uncooked breaded cakes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat frozen cheesy shrimp & grits bites, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving to keep them crunchy.
Thawing: If frozen, thaw bites in the fridge overnight before cooking, or fry directly from frozen for a quicker option!
What to Serve with Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites?
Creating the perfect meal is all about balancing flavors and textures, making each dish more delightful.
- Crispy Green Salad: The freshness of mixed greens with a zesty vinaigrette complements the richness of the bites beautifully.
- Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn brushed with garlic butter adds a burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the Cajun seasoning.
- Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears sprinkled with lemon juice offer a refreshing crunch—a perfect contrast to creamy bites.
- Spicy Remoulade: Elevate your shrimp experience with a zesty remoulade sauce; it perfectly marries the cake’s flavors, enhancing each bite.
- Savory Collard Greens: These Southern classics add earthy depth, creating a harmonious comfort food experience alongside the shrimp and grits.
- Chardonnay: Pouring a glass of chilled Chardonnay can elevate your meal, as its crisp notes complement the shrimp’s subtle sweetness.
- Classic Hushpuppies: Pairing these cornbread delights brings a nostalgic Southern twist; their crispy exterior matches the texture of the bites.
- Peach Slaw: A refreshing slaw with sweet peaches adds a vibrant edge, balancing the savory bites beautifully while adding a pop of color to your plate.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Cap off your meal with a decadent lava cake that contrasts with the rich flavors of the bites, leaving a sweet memory on the palate.
Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites Recipe FAQs
How can I choose the best shrimp for my Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, choose fresh or frozen shrimp that are medium-sized, peeled, and deveined. Look for shrimp that are firm, with a slight ocean scent. Avoid any with black spots or a strong fishy odor, as these can indicate lower quality.
How should I store leftover Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites?
I recommend storing any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to keep them crispy.
Can I freeze my Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the uncooked breaded cakes in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label the bag with the date!
What’s the best way to reheat frozen Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites?
For the best results, bake your frozen bites directly from the freezer! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until they are heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Can I make these bites gluten-free?
Very! To make your Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour and panko bread crumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Look for gluten-free bread crumbs at your local store or make your own from gluten-free bread.
What dietary restrictions should I consider when making Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites?
Be mindful of any seafood allergies when serving this dish, as the main protein is shrimp. Additionally, if you have guests with dairy restrictions, consider using non-dairy milk and cheese substitutes to keep the creamy texture without the lactose. Enjoy crafting a dish that everyone can savor!
Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites: Your New Favorite Comfort Food
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, bring 2 1/2 cups of whole milk and 1 1/2 cups of water to a gentle simmer.
- While whisking steadily, slowly pour in 1 cup of quick-cooking grits and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook uncovered, stirring frequently, until thickened, about 7 minutes.
- Mix in 1 1/2 cups of shredded smoked gouda (or sharp cheddar), 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. Add kosher salt to taste, then spread the grits mixture into an 11" x 8" baking dish and refrigerate until firm, about 30 minutes.
- While your grits cool, pat 30 medium shrimp dry and season with kosher salt and 1 1/2 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add 2 stalks of finely chopped celery and 1/2 of a finely chopped green bell pepper, cooking until tender, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Stir in the white parts of 3 sliced scallions, 3 cloves of chopped garlic, and 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add your seasoned shrimp to the center of the skillet and cook until opaque, approximately 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer the mixture to a plate and keep warm.
- Using a 2" round cutter, cut out 15 cakes from the chilled grits, about 1" thick, and slice them in half horizontally, creating 30 half-inch thick disks.
- Set up three shallow bowls: one for 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for 1 cup of panko bread crumbs. Coat each cake in flour, dip it into the egg, and then press it into the panko.
- Heat 2 cups of neutral oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the cakes in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 1 to 2 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Transfer the cakes to a serving platter and top each with a spoonful of the shrimp and vegetable mixture. Serve with remoulade on the side for dipping.