If you love the comforting, creamy goodness of Southern cooking with a fun appetizer twist, this Shrimp and Grits Bites Recipe is going to become your new party favorite. It takes the classic shrimp and grits dish and transforms it into perfectly portioned, bite-sized delights packed with cheesy grit rounds crowned with spicy, seared shrimp. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or just want a delicious snack to brighten your day, these bites are irresistibly flavorful and impressively easy to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each plays a key role in bringing out the signature taste and texture of this dish. From creamy cheese to perfectly seasoned shrimp, every item contributes to a harmonious balance of flavors and colors that make the Shrimp and Grits Bites Recipe shine.
- 1 cup water: The base liquid that cooks the grits to perfect tenderness.
- 1 cup milk: Adds creaminess and richness to the grits.
- 1/2 cup quick-cooking grits: The star carbohydrate that forms the soft yet sturdy base of each bite.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the grits and shrimp.
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Provides a tangy, melty depth and gorgeous color.
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds silkiness and helps with browning the grits.
- 1 egg, beaten: Binds the grits together so they hold their shape in the mini muffin tins.
- 1 tbsp flour (optional): Gives extra firmness to the grits for easier handling if desired.
- 16–20 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined: The juicy, flavorful protein crowning these bites with a punch of Cajun spice.
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter: For searing shrimp to a beautiful golden finish.
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning: Brings warmth, spice, and that authentic Southern kick.
- Chopped chives or green onions, for garnish: Adds freshness, color, and a mild oniony bite to finish.
How to Make Shrimp and Grits Bites Recipe
Step 1: Make the Grits
Start by bringing the water and milk to a boil in a saucepan, which creates the perfect creamy base for your grits. Once boiling, stir in the quick-cooking grits and salt, then reduce the heat and let it thicken for 5 to 7 minutes. It’s important to keep stirring so the grits don’t clump or stick! Once thick and creamy, melt in the sharp cheddar cheese and butter for that irresistible flavor and smooth texture. Let the mixture cool just enough before folding in the beaten egg, which helps the grits firm up when baked. If you want your bites a little sturdier, this is the time to add the optional flour.
Step 2: Form the Grits Bites
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a mini muffin tin lightly—this will help you release the bites easily after baking. Spoon the cheesy grits mixture into each cup, smoothing the tops for a neat finish. Bake them for 15 to 20 minutes until the edges turn golden and the bites feel firm to the touch. Allow them to cool slightly before popping them out, so they hold their shape like little crispy-edged discs of grits bliss.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
While the grits bites are baking, toss your peeled and deveined shrimp in Cajun seasoning to coat them evenly with spice and flavor. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then sear the shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You want them pink, slightly charred on the edges, and bursting with that wonderfully bold Cajun vibe. Cooking shrimp quickly like this keeps them tender and juicy, perfect for topping the grits rounds.
Step 4: Assemble the Shrimp and Grits Bites Recipe
Now comes the fun part! Simply place a seared shrimp atop each grits bite. Sprinkle chopped chives or green onions over the top for a pop of fresh green color and a mild onion flavor that balances the richness beautifully. Serve these warm for the ultimate combination of creamy, cheesy, spicy, and fresh in every single bite.
How to Serve Shrimp and Grits Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of chopped chives or green onions to bring a touch of brightness and color that’s as lovely to look at as it is to taste. A light drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of tangy remoulade can also elevate these bites for a special occasion or casual snacking.
Side Dishes
Since these are rich and full of flavor, simple sides work best to balance the meal. A crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables provides refreshing contrast. For a heartier option, creamy coleslaw or baked sweet potato fries pair perfectly with the Southern vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the Shrimp and Grits Bites Recipe on a large wooden board or a pretty platter with small ramekins of dips like spicy aioli, honey mustard, or a zesty cocktail sauce. You could even skewer a shrimp and a bite together for easy finger food at parties. These little rounds also make fun tapas or brunch additions alongside fresh fruit and vibrant mimosas.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover grits bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the shrimp separately if possible, so they retain their texture and flavor. When combined, try to consume as soon as possible for the best taste.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked grits bites without shrimp for up to 1 month. Place them on a parchment-lined tray first to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Shrimp don’t freeze as well once cooked on the bites, so it is best to cook shrimp fresh.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the grits bites in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through and crisp on the edges. Reheat shrimp quickly in a hot pan or microwave just until warm, so they stay tender and don’t get rubbery. Assemble just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use stone-ground grits instead of quick-cooking?
Absolutely! Stone-ground grits will add more texture and depth of flavor but require a longer cooking time. Be sure to cook them fully and adjust liquid quantities as needed before adding the egg and cheese mixture.
What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?
Sharp cheddar gives a great tang and melting quality, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Parmesan, or even smoked gouda for a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply omit the optional flour or use a gluten-free flour blend. The grits and shrimp are naturally gluten-free, making this dish easy to adapt for gluten-sensitive guests.
How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this recipe?
The Cajun seasoning adds a moderate level of heat alongside aromatic spices, but you can adjust the amount or use a milder seasoning to suit your preference. It really adds a nice punch without overpowering the other flavors.
Can I prepare the grits bites ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! You can make the grits bites a day in advance and reheat them before serving. Cook the shrimp fresh for the best taste and texture, then assemble just before your guests arrive to impress with ease.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a delicious way to elevate a Southern classic into something fun, shareable, and full of personality, don’t hesitate to try this Shrimp and Grits Bites Recipe. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to make but leaves a lasting impression with every bite. Trust me, once you make these, you’ll want to keep the recipe close and make them again and again!
Print
Shrimp and Grits Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
These Shrimp and Grits Bites are a delightful twist on the classic Southern dish, featuring creamy, cheesy grits baked into bite-sized rounds and topped with perfectly seared Cajun-seasoned shrimp. Ideal as an appetizer or party snack, they offer a flavorful combination of creamy texture, savory cheese, and spicy shrimp, garnished with fresh chives or green onions for a fresh finish.
Ingredients
Grits
- 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)
Shrimp
- 16–20 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
Garnish
- Chopped chives or green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Make the Grits: In a saucepan, bring water and milk to a boil. Stir in quick-cooking grits and salt, reduce heat, and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until thickened. Stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese and butter until melted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before mixing in the beaten egg (and flour if using) to bind the mixture.
- Form Bites: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin to prevent sticking. Spoon the grits mixture into each cup and smooth the tops with the back of a spoon. Bake in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the bites are firm and golden brown on top. Allow them to cool slightly before removing from the tin.
- Cook the Shrimp: Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove from heat.
- Assemble Bites: Place one cooked shrimp on top of each grits round. Garnish with chopped chives or green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve the bites warm as a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Using quick-cooking grits reduces preparation time significantly.
- The optional flour helps the grits bites hold their shape better when baked.
- You can adjust the level of Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice tolerance.
- Make sure to cool the grits mixture slightly before adding the egg to prevent scrambling.
- Grits bites can be prepared ahead and reheated before serving.
