Shrimp and Sausage Over Grits: A Southern Comfort Classic

Shrimp and Sausage Over Grits is a quintessential Southern dish that combines the rich flavors of sautéed shrimp and savory sausage with a creamy bed of grits. This dish is hearty, comforting, and bursting with a harmonious blend of tastes and textures. Whether you’re a fan of Southern cuisine or just looking for a satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.

Ingredients:

For the Shrimp and Sausage:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 ounces smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

For the Grits:

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Grits

1. In a large saucepan, bring the chicken or vegetable broth and milk to a boil.
2. Slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer the grits for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are creamy and tender, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the butter and grated cheddar cheese. Season with salt and black pepper. Cover and keep warm.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp and Sausage

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and sauté until it’s browned and slightly crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper. Sauté until they are softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and Cajun seasoning. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook until they turn pink and are opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Serve the Dish

1. To serve, spoon a generous portion of creamy cheddar grits onto each plate.
2. Top the grits with the shrimp and sausage mixture.
3. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Notes:

• Stone-ground grits are preferred for their texture and flavor, but you can use regular grits if needed. Just follow the package instructions for cooking.
• Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your preferred level of spiciness. You can make it as mild or as fiery as you like.
• This dish is delightful on its own, but it’s also great with a side of sautéed greens, like collard greens or spinach.

Shrimp and Sausage Over Grits is a comforting and hearty meal that beautifully combines the flavors of the South. The creamy cheddar grits provide a delightful base for the sautéed shrimp and sausage, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and full of character. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this recipe will transport you to the heart of Southern cuisine with every bite.