Spicy Shrimp and Grits Bites

Name: Spicy Shrimp and Grits Bites
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quick-cooking grits; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Cravings Kitchen

I love making these Spicy Shrimp and Grits Bites when I want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. The combination of creamy, cheesy grits with succulent shrimp spiced with my favorite seasonings creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re perfect as a hearty appetizer or a main course. Each bite has the right kick to make your taste buds dance, and I can’t wait to share this delicious recipe with you!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-02-04T16:21:28.388Z

When I first tasted Spicy Shrimp and Grits Bites at a local restaurant, I knew I had to recreate them at home. I experimented with different spice blends until I found the perfect balance of heat and flavor. The creamy grits and zesty shrimp are such a delightful contrast that every bite feels like a celebration of flavors. Don't skimp on the cheese, as it brings the dish together beautifully!

Another key to making these bites perfect is to ensure the shrimp are cooked just right. I like to sauté them until they’re just pink and juicy, which keeps them tender. Serving them on a crispy grit base means they hold up well, making these bites not only tasty but also a hit at every gathering.

Why You'll Love These Bites
A tantalizing blend of spices that kicks up the flavor profile
Creamy, cheesy grits provide a comforting base
Perfectly cooked shrimp add a touch of elegance

The Perfect Grits

When making the grits for your Spicy Shrimp and Grits Bites, it's crucial to use quick-cooking grits for a smooth and creamy texture. Ensure your chicken broth is boiling before whisking in the grits to prevent clumps. Stirring occasionally helps achieve that glossy consistency, and incorporating heavy cream not only enriches the flavor but also enhances the creaminess. If you're looking for a slightly different flavor profile, consider using vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist, or adding a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

After mixing in the cheddar cheese, taste the grits before serving; this is your chance to adjust the seasoning. The cheese adds saltiness, but depending on your preference, you might want to add more salt or pepper. Keep the grits warm while cooking the shrimp, but make sure not to let them dry out—adding a little extra broth or cream can help maintain that silky texture.

Cooking the Shrimp Right

Cooking shrimp requires attention to timing. These little guys cook quickly; overcooked shrimp can turn tough and rubbery. Aim for a cooking time of about 3-4 minutes, just until they turn pink and opaque. If you find your shrimp are undercooked, turn the heat up slightly and give them an additional minute, monitoring closely. For added flavor, marinate the shrimp in the spices for 15-30 minutes before cooking—this deeper infusion can really elevate the taste.

The spices used here create a delightful balance of warmth and zest. Smoked paprika offers a rich, smoky undertone that complements the shrimp beautifully, while cayenne pepper gives it that signature kick. If you're sensitive to spice, you can reduce the cayenne or even substitute it with a milder chili powder. Experiment with adding a squeeze of fresh lemon after cooking for a refreshing brightness that cuts through the richness of the grits.

Serving and Storing

These Spicy Shrimp and Grits Bites are best served hot and fresh, especially after broiling to get that desirable crisp on top. If you're entertaining, you can prepare the grits and shrimp ahead of time. Just keep the grits warm over low heat, and reheat the shrimp in a skillet briefly before assembly. If you need to store leftovers, keep the shrimp and grits separate in airtight containers in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture.

For a fun twist, consider varying the toppings for your grit rounds. You might add a dollop of spicy aioli or a sprinkle of feta for an exciting flavor contrast. If making these bites for a larger crowd, scale up the recipe; just make sure to give yourself enough time for cooking, as you'll likely need to cook the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause them to steam rather than sear.

Ingredients

For the Grits

1 cup quick-cooking grits
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Shrimp

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Grits

In a pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits, reduce the heat to low, and stir occasionally until they are thick and creamy, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the cheddar cheese and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat.

Cook the Shrimp

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp and sprinkle with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.

Assemble the Bites

Using a spoon, drop small rounds of the grits onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Top each grit round with 2-3 shrimp, then broil in the oven for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are slightly crispy.

Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños to the shrimp mixture. You can also experiment with different types of cheese in the grits for a unique flavor twist.

Ingredient Spotlight: Shrimp

Choosing the right shrimp is essential for this recipe. Look for fresh, wild-caught shrimp if possible; they generally have better flavor compared to farmed options. The size of the shrimp doesn't affect the recipe too much, but smaller shrimp (like 26-30 count per pound) are easier to eat in one bite. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them properly in the fridge overnight or under cold running water before cooking to ensure even cooking.

Additionally, consider seasoning variations if you're feeling adventurous. Experiment with a Cajun seasoning blend for a different regional flair, or add a touch of lime zest for brightness. Shrimp can also be swapped for other proteins like scallops or even chicken if shrimp isn't available.

Grits Variations

While cheddar cheese is classic, don’t hesitate to explore other cheeses for the grits. Parmesan or Gruyère can add a distinct flavor profile. If you want a bit of tang, cream cheese can integrate nicely with butter for an ultra-rich result. You can also fold in cooked bacon or sautéed green peppers and onions into the grits for a heartier option that's absolutely great for brunch gatherings.

For spice lovers, consider mixing in some freshly chopped jalapeños or diced green chiles into the grits before cooking for an extra kick. Adjust the heat to suit your taste preferences, and serve with additional hot sauce on the side to let guests customize the spice level at their leisure.

Making it Ahead

Preparing these bites ahead of time is possible and can make for a stress-free entertaining experience. You can make the grits a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently reheat them while adding a splash of chicken broth or water to restore their creamy consistency. Just remember to stay vigilant to avoid them drying out.

For the shrimp, I like to cook them right before serving, but if you need to prepare them in advance, undercook them slightly. This way, you can quickly reheat and finish them under the broiler for just a couple of minutes before serving. It’ll ensure they're juicy and not overcooked, delivering a perfect bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the grits ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the grits in advance and reheat them before assembling the bites.

→ What if I don’t like shrimp?

You can substitute shrimp with chicken or a variety of vegetables, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

→ How can I spice these up?

Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or add your favorite hot sauce to the shrimp.

→ Can these bites be served cold?

They are best served warm, but you can enjoy them at room temperature if needed.