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
Scale
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.
