There’s nothing quite like the warmth of Southern comfort food to lift your spirits after a long day. As the rich aroma of this Creamy Shrimp and Grits (Grits A Ya Ya) fills the kitchen, I can’t help but feel transported to a bustling Southern diner, where the flavors are bold, and every dish tells a story. The magic happens when tender, juicy shrimp meet a luscious sauce crafted from creamy Gouda and smoky bacon, bringing a velvety indulgence to your plate.
You might be surprised at how easily this dish transforms a simple weeknight dinner into an occasion deserving of celebration. As you indulge in each bite, you’ll discover that it’s not only comfort food but also a versatile dish that adapts to your personal touch. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into a recipe that promises both flavor and satisfaction, ensuring no one will miss the fast food once they taste this delightful southern classic!
Why is Grits A Ya Ya a Must-Try?
Comforting warmth embraces you with every spoonful, offering the essence of Southern hospitality in a dish. Flavorful richness from Gouda and bacon elevates traditional shrimp and grits into a feast for the senses. Quick and easy, you’ll whip this up in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights! Versatile by nature, feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices for a personal twist. Crowd-pleaser status is guaranteed; serve at dinner parties, and watch your guests rave!
Grits A Ya Ya Ingredients
For the Shrimp and Sauce
• Large Shrimp – Use large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best texture.
• Bacon – Adds a smoky flavor; turkey bacon can lighten this dish if desired.
• Shallots – Provide a mild onion flavor; onions can be a good substitute if needed.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic enhances flavor depth; feel free to use garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
• Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; olive oil works as a dairy-free alternative.
• White Wine – Contributes acidity and balance; chicken broth is a great non-alcoholic substitute.
• Heavy Cream – This is essential for achieving creaminess; half-and-half lightens it up if you prefer.
For the Grits
• Chicken Stock – Used for cooking grits; veggie stock is a great vegetarian option.
• Old-Fashioned Grits – Provides texture; coarse grits work best, while instant are quicker but less flavorful.
• Gouda Cheese – Adds creaminess and a unique flavor; cheddar or Monterey Jack can be substituted for a sharper taste.
Embrace the comfort and magic of Grits A Ya Ya with these simple yet vital ingredients, and get ready to delight your senses with this creamy shrimp masterpiece!
How to Make Grits A Ya Ya
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Cook Bacon: In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s crispy and fragrant. The bacon will infuse fantastic smoky flavors into your dish!
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Sauté Aromatics: Sprinkle in minced garlic and shallots with the bacon, sautéing for just 1 minute. You’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen is filled with a delicious aroma!
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Combine Shrimp: Add butter and white wine to the skillet, letting them melt together beautifully. Then, stir in the shrimp, cooking for about 4 minutes until they’re pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set them aside.
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Make Sauce: Pour heavy cream into the skillet, stirring to combine. Simmer the mixture until it has reduced by about a third. Season with salt, pepper, and a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick!
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Cook Grits: In a separate saucepan, bring chicken stock to a boil. Whisk in the old-fashioned grits and allow to simmer while stirring for 15 minutes. Add in heavy cream, butter, and Gouda cheese, mixing until smooth and creamy.
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Combine: Return the cooked shrimp to the sauce, stirring gently to coat them thoroughly. Serve the shrimp generously over your creamy grits for a truly comforting dish.
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for an added burst of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Grits A Ya Ya
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Perfect Shrimp: To prevent rubbery shrimp, cook them until just pink and opaque—overcooking can ruin their tenderness.
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Lump-Free Grits: Stir the grits frequently while cooking to ensure a smooth texture. This helps to avoid any lumpy surprises in your dish.
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Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately to simplify dinner prep. Simply reheat before adding shrimp and serving over grits.
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Cheese Swap: If you’re not a Gouda fan, don’t hesitate to substitute with cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different yet equally delicious flavor in your Grits A Ya Ya.
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Veggie Boost: Consider adding sautéed spinach or bell peppers to your shrimp mixture for added nutrition and a pop of color.
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Spice It Up: A sprinkle of Cajun seasoning can enhance the dish’s flavor profile, giving it a delightful kick that’s perfect for spice lovers!
Grits A Ya Ya Variations
Customize this delightful dish to suit your cravings and preferences with these easy twists! Let your creativity take the lead and enjoy the warmth of Southern comfort in new ways.
- Cheese Swap: Substitute Gouda with cheddar or Monterey Jack for a sharper flavor profile that’s equally creamy.
- Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning for a burst of heat that enhances the dish’s Southern roots.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate sautéed spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and a colorful presentation on your plate.
- Seafood Twist: Replace shrimp with crab or lobster for an elegant twist that elevates your dining experience.
- Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or parsley right before serving for a fragrant and fresh finish.
- Creamy Alternative: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version that brings a tropical vibe.
- Southern Charm: Add a dollop of collard greens on top for a traditional Southern pairing that’s both colorful and delicious.
- Texture Surprise: Top with crispy fried shallots or onions for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy grits.
How to Store and Freeze Grits A Ya Ya
Fridge: Store leftover shrimp and grits in separate airtight containers for up to 2 days. Keep the shrimp sauce away from the grits to maintain texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shrimp and sauce in well-sealed containers for up to 3 months. However, it’s best to freeze the grits separately, as they can become grainy when thawed.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Warm the shrimp sauce gently on the stove, and reheat the grits with a splash of broth or cream to bring back creaminess.
Make Ahead Options
These Grits A Ya Ya are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to savor delicious Southern comfort without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the shrimp sauce and grits up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the bacon, sauté the aromatics, and combine with shrimp to make the sauce; store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The grits can be made and reheated, but to maintain their creamy texture, add a splash of chicken stock when warming them up. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce on the stove and serve the shrimp over the creamy reheated grits for a delightful meal that tastes just as fresh!
What to Serve with Grits A Ya Ya?
As you dive into the comfort of this creamy dish, let’s elevate your meal with delightful sides that tickle your taste buds and excite your senses.
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted to perfection, they add a crunchy texture that beautifully contrasts with the creamy grits and shrimp. Just the right balance!
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Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of that luscious sauce. Plus, who can resist the aroma of garlic wafting through the kitchen?
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Coleslaw: This tangy and refreshing slaw brings a crunchy element, balancing the richness of your dish while adding bursts of color to your plate.
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Cornbread: Serve up warm, sweet cornbread to complement the savory flavors of the shrimp and grits. Each bite feels like a big hug from the South!
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Garden Salad: A light salad with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette brings a refreshing touch, ensuring a well-rounded meal.
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Sweet Tea: This classic Southern beverage pairs wonderfully, offering a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the dish. A sip brings you right to a sunlit porch.
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Pecan Pie: For dessert, this nutty, sweet treat beautifully mirrors the Southern charm of your meal. It’s a perfect way to end an indulgent dinner!
Embrace these pairings, and watch how they make your Grits A Ya Ya experience even more memorable!
Grits A Ya Ya Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for Grits A Ya Ya?
Absolutely, using large, peeled, and deveined shrimp will give you the best texture and bite. Look for shrimp that are firm and fresh, which will enhance the overall dish. If possible, buy shrimp that’s local and wild-caught for superior flavor.
How should I store leftovers from my Grits A Ya Ya?
For optimal freshness, store leftover shrimp and grits in separate airtight containers in the fridge. This keeps the textures intact and lasts for up to 2 days. If you tend to prep meals ahead of time, consider making the sauce and refrigerating it separately for easier reheating.
Can I freeze Grits A Ya Ya?
Yes! You can freeze the shrimp and sauce separately in well-sealed containers for up to 3 months. However, keep in mind that freezing grits is not typically recommended due to texture changes; they can become grainy once thawed. If you do want to freeze them, whisk in some extra liquid upon reheating to help regain their creaminess.
How do I reheat my frozen Grits A Ya Ya?
To reheat, first, thaw the shrimp and sauce overnight in the fridge. Then, gently warm the shrimp sauce on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. For the grits, use a saucepan to warm them up with a splash of broth or cream, stirring until they reach your desired consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! If you or anyone you are serving has dietary restrictions, you can make several adjustments. Substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option or replace heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream. Just be cautious with the shrimp if anyone has shellfish allergies; you could make a vegetarian version by omitting the shrimp and adding more vegetables.
What if my grits are lumpy? How can I fix them?
If you find yourself with lumpy grits, don’t worry! To fix them, simply add a bit more liquid—preferably broth or cream—and stir vigorously until they smooth out. If they remain stubborn, you might want to use a whisk or immersion blender to achieve that velvety texture you’re after. The key is to consistently stir the grits while they cook to prevent lumps from forming in the first place!
Grits A Ya Ya: Creamy Shrimp Bliss for Comfort Food Lovers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s crispy and fragrant.
- Sprinkle in minced garlic and shallots with the bacon, sautéing for just 1 minute.
- Add butter and white wine to the skillet, letting them melt together beautifully. Then, stir in the shrimp, cooking for about 4 minutes until they're pink and opaque.
- Pour heavy cream into the skillet, stirring to combine. Simmer the mixture until it has reduced by about a third, seasoning with salt, pepper, and hot sauce.
- In a separate saucepan, bring chicken stock to a boil. Whisk in the old-fashioned grits and allow to simmer while stirring for 15 minutes.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the sauce, stirring gently to coat them. Serve the shrimp generously over your creamy grits.
