Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfect bite-sized treat that combines creamy, cheesy grits with tender, perfectly seasoned shrimp. This Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites Recipe is an absolute showstopper, bursting with smoky gouda, a hint of Cajun spice, and a delightful crunchy coating. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for an impressive appetizer, these little bites deliver waves of Southern comfort with every mouthful. Trust me, once you try these irresistible morsels, they’ll become your go-to recipe for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites Recipe lies in how straightforward the ingredients are, yet how brilliantly each one plays a role in building layers of flavor and texture. From creamy milk enriching the grits to the crisp panko coating that gives each bite a satisfying crunch, every component is essential for that perfect balance.
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk: Adds creamy richness that makes the grits irresistibly smooth.
- 1 1/2 cups water: Balances the milk perfectly for the ideal grits consistency.
- 1 cup quick-cooking grits: Ensures a smooth, fast-cooking base for the dish.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded smoked gouda or sharp cheddar: Elevates flavor with a smoky, cheesy depth.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Enhances flavor and lends richness both to grits and the veggie mixture.
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning: Provides a delicious kick for well-balanced spice.
- Kosher salt to taste: Perfectly seasons to your palate.
- 30 medium shrimp: The stars of the dish, tender and full of flavor.
- 2 stalks celery: Finely chopped for a lightly crunchy, fresh texture.
- 3 cloves garlic: Adds savory depth when finely chopped.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Enriches the savory flavor of the sautéed shrimp and vegetables.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Used for coating to create a base layer for breading.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as a glue that holds the crunchy coating together.
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs: Provides a gorgeous golden crunch that you’ll love.
- Neutral oil for frying: Essential for crisping without overpowering flavors.
- Remoulade sauce (optional): A zesty dip to elevate your bites to the next level.
How to Make Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Grits Base
Start by bringing the whole milk and water to a gentle simmer on medium-high heat. Gradually whisk in the quick-cooking grits so they blend smoothly without lumps. Lower the heat and stir frequently for around seven minutes until the mixture thickens into a luscious, creamy base. This process is crucial for a smooth, rich texture that holds together beautifully later.
Step 2: Infuse the Grits with Cheese and Seasoning
Once the grits have thickened, stir in the shredded smoked gouda or sharp cheddar, butter, and Cajun seasoning for that magic Southern flavor. Adjust the salt to your liking. Pour this cheesy, fluffy mixture into a baking dish and pop it into the fridge for at least 30 minutes until firm and cold. Chilling helps the grits hold their shape when you cut them into bites.
Step 3: Season and Sauté the Shrimp and Veggies
Pat the shrimp dry, season them with salt and Cajun seasoning, then move on to your skillet. Melt butter and gently cook the finely chopped celery and green bell pepper until tender. Add scallion whites, garlic, and tomato paste, cooking until fragrant and the paste deepens in color. Toss in the shrimp and cook just until opaque. This combination brings a savory, slightly spicy punch that pairs perfectly with the creamy grits.
Step 4: Shape and Bread the Grits Cakes
Using a 2-inch cutter, carve out grits cakes from the chilled mixture and slice each cake in half horizontally, forming crispy disks that crisp nicely when fried. Set up a breading station with seasoned flour, beaten eggs, and panko crumbs. Dip each disk first in flour, then egg, and finally coat with panko, pressing lightly to ensure the coating adheres well. Freeze the breaded cakes briefly to make frying easier and crispier.
Step 5: Fry the Grits Bites to Golden Perfection
Heat neutral oil over medium-high and fry the grits bites in batches, turning them to achieve an even golden-brown crust. Each side only takes a couple of minutes but makes all the difference by adding that crunch you crave. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with a little salt right away to enhance the flavor.
Step 6: Assemble the Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites
Arrange the crispy grits bites on a platter, top each with a succulent shrimp and a spoonful of the sautéed vegetable mixture. Sprinkle green parts of scallions on top for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve warm, optionally alongside a zesty remoulade sauce for dipping—pure bliss in every bite.
How to Serve Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped scallions brighten the presentation and add a delicate oniony crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy grits. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dusting of smoked paprika also complements the smoky cheese and Cajun seasoning perfectly.
Side Dishes
These bites shine as an appetizer but also work brilliantly with sides like a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables that balance the richness. A cold, refreshing cucumber salad is another excellent choice to keep things light and fresh alongside these savory treats.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to dazzle guests? Serve on individual spoons for cocktail parties, or stack them as mini towers with shrimp on top and a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or remoulade. You can even place them on a bed of lightly spiced arugula to add a peppery kick and an elegant appearance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooked and cooled, store your Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making them a great make-ahead option for busy days or parties.
Freezing
If you want to keep these bites longer, freeze the breaded grits cakes before frying. Freeze them placed on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. You can keep them frozen for up to 1 month. When ready, fry them straight from frozen for the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, avoid the microwave to keep the breading crispy—use a skillet over medium heat or bake in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. This method revitalizes their irresistible crunch and cheesy interior perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use regular cheddar instead of smoked gouda?
Absolutely! Regular sharp cheddar works great and offers a classic cheesy flavor. Smoked gouda adds a subtle smoky note, but feel free to use what you have on hand or prefer.
Are these bites suitable for freezing after cooking?
For best texture, freeze them before frying as the breading crisps up better when fried fresh. Freezing after cooking is possible but may result in less crispiness upon reheating.
Can I make these bites gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour and panko bread crumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Make sure your Cajun seasoning and any sauces used are also gluten-free for a safe swap.
How do I get the grits to hold together well?
Chilling the cooked grits in the baking dish until firm is key. This allows them to set properly, making cutting and breading much easier without falling apart.
What dipping sauces pair well with Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites?
Remoulade sauce is a classic choice, but spicy aioli, tangy cocktail sauce, or even a simple lemon-garlic mayo make fantastic dips to complement the flavors.
Final Thoughts
There’s something absolutely special about these Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites Recipe that makes them a winner every time. Bursting with cheesy, savory goodness and topped with tender shrimp, they offer a fun and flavorful way to enjoy classic Southern ingredients. Whether for a casual night in or a festive gathering, I wholeheartedly encourage you to try making these delicious bites—you won’t regret it!
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Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 30 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
These Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites are irresistibly crispy and packed with smoky, flavorful gouda, tender shrimp, and a kick of Cajun seasoning. Perfect as a party appetizer or a fun twist on a classic Southern dish, each bite delivers creamy grits cakes topped with a savory shrimp and vegetable mixture and optional remoulade sauce for dipping.
Ingredients
Grits Mixture
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 cup quick-cooking grits
- 1 1/2 cups shredded smoked gouda or sharp cheddar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- Kosher salt, to taste
Shrimp & Vegetables
- 30 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 3 sliced scallions, white and green parts separated
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Kosher salt, to taste
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, divided
Breading & Frying
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- Neutral oil, for frying
Optional
- Remoulade sauce, for serving
Instructions
- Cook Grits: In a small saucepan, bring whole milk and water to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat. Gradually whisk in the quick-cooking grits. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring frequently, for about 7 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in shredded smoked gouda, butter, and 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning. Season lightly with kosher salt. Pour the grits into an 11″ x 8″ baking dish, spreading evenly. Refrigerate for 30 minutes until chilled and firm.
- Prepare Shrimp: Pat dry shrimp and place in a large bowl. Season with a pinch of salt and 1 1/2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, tossing to coat evenly.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Add finely chopped celery and green bell pepper. Season with salt and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Cook Aromatics and Shrimp: Add white parts of sliced scallions, garlic, and tomato paste to skillet. Stir and cook for about 2 minutes until paste darkens. Make a space in the center, add shrimp, and cook tossing occasionally for 3-4 minutes until shrimp turn opaque. Transfer mixture to a plate and wipe skillet clean.
- Form Grits Cakes: Use a 2″ round cutter to cut 15 cakes from chilled grits, each about 1″ thick. Cut each cake in half horizontally to make 30 thin disks.
- Prepare Breading Station: Put flour in one shallow bowl, whisking in remaining 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning. Beat eggs in a second bowl. Place panko bread crumbs in a third bowl.
- Bread Grits Cakes: Dip each grits disk first in seasoned flour, then eggs, then panko crumbs, pressing lightly to coat. Arrange breaded cakes on a baking sheet and freeze for 10 minutes.
- Fry Cakes: Heat neutral oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Fry cakes in batches, turning once, for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to paper towel-lined plate and sprinkle with salt.
- Assemble and Serve: Arrange cakes on a platter and top each with a shrimp and vegetable portion. Garnish with green scallion tops. Serve with remoulade sauce if desired.
Notes
- Quick-cooking grits ensure a smooth texture; avoid stone-ground as it needs longer cooking.
- Smoked gouda adds a rich, smoky flavor; sharp cheddar is a good substitute.
- Freezing the breaded cakes before frying helps them hold their shape and improves crispiness.
- Use neutral oil like canola or vegetable for frying to avoid overpowering flavors.
- Remoulade sauce is optional but adds a tangy, creamy complement to the bites.
