Shrimp and Grits Bites Recipe
If you’re searching for a show-stopping party snack or a new Southern classic in bite-sized form, Shrimp and Grits Bites are the answer. This recipe takes all the creamy, savory comfort of traditional shrimp and grits and transforms it into a portable, poppable appetizer that’s as fun as it is flavorful. With a golden cheddar grits base topped by perfectly seasoned shrimp and finished with vibrant green onions, they hit every note: rich, zesty, comforting, and fancy enough for guests. Get ready for a dish that disappears in seconds, whether you’re hosting game night or brunch with friends!
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of key ingredients, you can whip up Shrimp and Grits Bites that taste absolutely gourmet. Each component has its own role, from creating creamy grits to infusing smoky, spicy flavor and adding pops of color on top.
- Water: Essential for cooking the grits to fluffy, tender perfection.
- Whole milk: Makes the grits wonderfully creamy and rich—don’t skip it!
- Quick-cooking grits: The backbone of each bite, delivering that classic Southern texture in minutes.
- Salt: Balances all the flavors and brings out the best in the cheddar and shrimp.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Adds tang and melty, gooey goodness to the grits.
- Butter: Rounds out the grits with a layer of lusciousness and depth.
- Large shrimp: The star of the show—make sure they’re peeled and deveined for easy eating!
- Olive oil: Helps the shrimp get a quick, beautiful sear and adds a touch of richness.
- Smoked paprika: Lends a smoky, subtly spicy flavor that makes the shrimp irresistible.
- Garlic powder: Enhances savory notes without overwhelming the delicate shrimp.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): For those who like a kick, this brings the perfect level of heat.
- Salt and pepper: For seasoning the shrimp just right.
- Chopped green onions: Sprinkle on top for a burst of color and fresh, zippy flavor.
How to Make Shrimp and Grits Bites
Step 1: Prepare the Grits Base
Preheat your oven to 375°F and grab your mini muffin pan. In a medium saucepan, bring the water and milk to a gentle boil. Slowly whisk in the grits and salt, then reduce the heat and stir often—think of this as creating the creamy stage for your bites! Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until thickened, making sure no lumps sneak in. Remove from the heat and stir in shredded cheddar and butter until the mixture is smooth and velvety.
Step 2: Build and Bake the Bites
Spoon the cheesy grits mixture into each cup of the mini muffin pan, filling them evenly. Press down gently with the back of a spoon so each bite has a solid base that will hold the shrimp later. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the grits are set and lightly golden around the edges—it’s this oven time that transforms the grits from creamy to snackable!
Step 3: Season and Sear the Shrimp
While your grits bases are baking, pat your shrimp dry and toss them with smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne if you love a touch of spice, plus salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and add the shrimp. Cook them just 2 to 3 minutes per side until they’re pink and beautifully cooked through. Don’t overdo it—shrimp cook fast!
Step 4: Assemble the Shrimp and Grits Bites
Once the grits bases are cool enough to handle, carefully remove them from the muffin pan (a small spoon works wonders). Top each grits bite with a seared shrimp. The final flourish? A sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions. Serve your Shrimp and Grits Bites warm for the very best flavor and texture.
How to Serve Shrimp and Grits Bites
Garnishes
The classic finish for Shrimp and Grits Bites is a generous sprinkle of bright green onions. For extra flair, add a dash of hot sauce or squeeze of lemon over the top—these little touches wake up all the flavors and make the colors pop on the plate.
Side Dishes
Pair these bites with fresh salads, crunchy coleslaw, or even a little bowl of remoulade sauce for dipping. They’re also lovely with pickled vegetables or mini biscuits, transforming any gathering into a Southern-inspired feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your Shrimp and Grits Bites on a rustic wooden board for a casual-chic look, or serve each on a Chinese soup spoon for an elegant party vibe. If you’re hosting brunch, place them in pretty cupcake liners for an extra pop of color and easy handling.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow have a few bites left, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The grits will hold their shape, and the shrimp remain tasty with a little care when reheating.
Freezing
For best results, freeze just the baked grits bases and add the shrimp after reheating. Place cooled bases on a sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to serve, thaw, warm, and top with freshly cooked shrimp and garnish.
Reheating
Warm Shrimp and Grits Bites gently in the oven at 325°F for about 6 to 8 minutes, or zap them in the microwave in short bursts. If possible, add a fresh sprinkle of green onion or a little hot sauce right before serving to revive that just-made magic.
FAQs
Can I use regular grits instead of quick-cooking?
Absolutely! Just make sure to follow the cooking time on the package, as regular grits will need a little more time to become perfectly tender and creamy. The flavor will be every bit as delicious.
Are Shrimp and Grits Bites gluten-free?
Yes—they’re naturally gluten-free as long as your grits are certified gluten-free. Always check the label if you’re cooking for someone sensitive to gluten, just to be sure.
Can I make Shrimp and Grits Bites ahead for a party?
Definitely! You can prepare the grits bases a day in advance, then bake and top with shrimp just before serving. This lets you spend more time with guests and less in the kitchen.
What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?
If cheddar isn’t your favorite, try pepper jack for a spicy kick, or gouda for an ultra-creamy twist. Both melt nicely and complement the shrimp beautifully.
How spicy are these bites?
The heat is totally up to you! Leave out the cayenne for mild bites, or add a bit more if your friends and family love a kick. The smoked paprika gives great flavor without overwhelming spice.
Final Thoughts
I hope you fall in love with these Shrimp and Grits Bites as much as I have. They pack big bold flavor into the perfect party package, and are guaranteed to spark conversation and smiles wherever they go. Give them a try—you might just find your new go-to appetizer!
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Shrimp and Grits Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 bites 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Shrimp and Grits Bites are a delightful Southern twist on a classic dish, perfect for serving as a party appetizer. Creamy cheddar grits form the base for succulent shrimp, seasoned with a hint of smokiness and spice.
Ingredients
Grits Base:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup quick-cooking grits
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
Shrimp:
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a mini muffin pan.
- Prepare the grits base: In a saucepan, bring water and milk to a boil. Whisk in the grits and salt. Cook until thickened, then stir in cheese and butter.
- Bake the grits: Spoon the grits mixture into muffin cups, bake until set and golden.
- Cook the shrimp: Season shrimp, sauté in olive oil until cooked.
- Assemble: Top each grits bite with a shrimp, garnish with green onions, and serve.
Notes
- You can make the grits base ahead of time and store it in the fridge before baking.
- For added flavor, drizzle with hot sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
