Description

Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites are crispy on the outside, creamy in the center, and topped with seasoned shrimp and vegetables. This recipe turns a classic comfort dish into perfectly portioned bites that are rich, flavorful, and ideal for sharing. Each bite delivers cheesy grits, bold Cajun seasoning, and tender shrimp with a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

Whole milk combined with water for cooking the grits

Quick cooking grits that are not instant

Shredded Tillamook Smoked Gouda or Cabot Sharp Cheddar

Unsalted butter

Cajun seasoning

Kosher salt

Medium shrimp peeled and deveined

Celery finely chopped

Green bell pepper finely chopped

Scallions with white and green parts separated

Garlic cloves finely chopped

Tomato paste

All purpose flour

Large eggs

Panko bread crumbs such as Kikkoman Panko or Ian’s Panko

Neutral oil such as canola or vegetable oil

Primal Kitchen Garlic Aioli or Sir Kensington’s Classic Mayonnaise for serving

Instructions

Bring milk and water to a gentle simmer in a saucepan and slowly whisk in the grits until smooth

Cook the grits while whisking frequently until thick and creamy

Stir in shredded cheese, part of the butter, Cajun seasoning, and salt until fully melted

Spread the grits evenly into a baking dish and refrigerate until firm

Season shrimp with salt and Cajun seasoning and set aside

Melt remaining butter in a skillet and cook celery and bell pepper until slightly softened

Add scallion whites, garlic, and tomato paste and cook until fragrant

Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until opaque and just done then transfer to a plate

Cut chilled grits into rounds and slice each round horizontally into thin disks

Coat the grit disks in seasoned flour, dip in beaten eggs, then press into panko crumbs

Freeze the breaded grits briefly so the coating sets

Heat oil in a skillet and fry the grit cakes until golden and crisp on both sides

Drain on paper towels and season lightly with salt

Top each grit cake with shrimp and vegetable mixture

Garnish with scallion greens and serve with aioli or mayonnaise

Notes

Use whole milk for the creamiest texture and avoid rushing the grits while cooking

Chilling the grits fully is essential for clean cutting and easy handling

Pat shrimp dry before seasoning to ensure proper browning

Maintain steady oil temperature for even frying and crisp results

The grits base can be prepared a day ahead and kept refrigerated

Breaded grit cakes can be frozen and fried directly when needed

Choose high quality cheese for best melting and flavor

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American