Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites Recipe

Let me tell you, this Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites Recipe is one of those dishes that just brings a whole lot of comfort and flair to the table. I absolutely love how these crispy, cheesy grits bites pair perfectly with the spicy, juicy shrimp topping – it’s a bite-sized explosion of Southern flavor that always impresses. Whether you’re serving these at a party or keeping things casual with a fun appetizer, this recipe hits the sweet spot between sophisticated and cozy.

What makes this Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites Recipe truly special is how it takes the classic shrimp and grits combo and transforms it into an easy-to-eat morsel you can enjoy without the fuss of utensils. When I first tried making this, I was thrilled with how well the smoked gouda melted perfectly into the grits and how the Cajun seasoning gave just the right kick without overwhelming the shrimp. You’ll see why these bites quickly become the star of any gathering!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients in this Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites Recipe come together to create layers of flavor and texture – creamy, cheesy grits form the base while Cajun-seasoned shrimp add that spicy, savory punch. When you pick fresh shrimp and quality cheese, you’re already halfway there to a winning dish.

• Whole milk: Brings richness to the grits for a creamy texture you’ll love.
• Quick-cooking grits: Choose quick-cooking, not instant, for the best consistency.
• Smoked gouda or sharp cheddar: Smoked gouda gives a lovely depth, but sharp cheddar adds traditional cheesiness.
• Unsalted butter: Split to use in both grits and cooking veggies for flavor balance.
• Cajun seasoning: The magic spice blend gives the shrimp the perfect zest, divided for layering flavor.
• Kosher salt: To season and enhance all the flavors.
• Medium shrimp: Peeled and deveined – size matters here for perfect bite-sized portions.
• Celery: Adds a subtle crunch and freshness.
• Green bell pepper: Fine chopping helps it blend perfectly with the shrimp mix.
• Scallions: Use both white and green parts for cooking and garnish.
• Garlic: Adds a punch of savoriness that elevates the shrimp.
• Tomato paste: Adds umami richness and helps brown the shrimp mixture.
• All-purpose flour: For breading the grits bites to get a crispy crust.
• Eggs: Helps the breading stick so you get that satisfying crunch.
• Panko bread crumbs: These create the extra crunchy coating you can’t resist.
• Neutral oil: For frying – think canola or vegetable oil to keep flavors clean.
• Remoulade sauce (optional): Great for serving alongside, adds a bright contrast.
• 2″ round cutter: For shaping your grits into uniform bites.

Variations

I love tweaking this Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites Recipe depending on what’s in season or what flavor mood I’m in. Feel free to swap cheeses or spice blends to make it your own. You’ll be surprised how versatile these bites can be!

• Swap the cheese: I sometimes use pepper jack for a little extra heat, and my family goes crazy for it!
• Spice adjustments: If you like more heat, add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the shrimp mix.
• Vegetable tweaks: Try adding finely chopped jalapeños or sweet corn for extra flavor and texture.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives without losing the crunch.

How to Make Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Creamy Cheese Grits

Start by bringing whole milk and water to a gentle simmer in a saucepan. While whisking constantly, slowly add the quick-cooking grits to avoid lumps. Then, turn the heat down to medium-low and let the grits thicken, whisking frequently to keep it smooth – this is key for creamy, no-clump grits. It should take about 7 minutes for that perfect velvety texture.

Step 2: Add Cheese and Seasoning to the Grits

Once the grits are thick and creamy, stir in the shredded smoked gouda or sharp cheddar, two tablespoons of butter, and one teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. Taste and season with kosher salt as needed. Pour this mixture into a baking dish and spread evenly. Refrigerate it for 30 minutes to let it firm up – this makes it easier to cut into neat bites later on.

Step 3: Season and Cook the Shrimp and Veggies

While the grits chill, pat the shrimp dry and toss them in a bowl with salt and one and a half teaspoons of Cajun seasoning. In a skillet, melt the remaining butter and sauté celery and green bell pepper with a pinch of salt until they soften, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the white parts of the scallions, garlic, and tomato paste and cook, stirring until the paste darkens slightly, which brings out its deep flavor.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp and Prepare for Assembly

Make a little space in the skillet and add your seasoned shrimp. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, tossing occasionally, until they turn opaque and are perfectly cooked. Transfer the whole shrimp and vegetable mix to a plate and wipe the skillet clean – we’ll use it for frying the grits bites soon.

Step 5: Cut the Grits Into Bites

Using your 2-inch round cutter, press down into the chilled grits to cut out 15 cakes, each about an inch thick. Then, carefully slice each cake horizontally to make two discs about half an inch thick – this gives us 30 grits bites in total, perfectly portioned for topping with shrimp.

Step 6: Bread the Grits Bites

Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls — one with flour mixed with the remaining Cajun seasoning, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Coat each grits bite first in the seasoned flour, then dip in egg, and finally press into the panko to get that beautiful crunch. Place the breaded bites back on the baking sheet and pop them in the freezer for 10 minutes so the coating sticks better when frying.

Step 7: Fry Until Golden and Crisp

Heat your neutral oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the grits bites in batches for 1 to 2 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pan so they crisp evenly. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle lightly with salt while still hot.

Step 8: Assemble and Serve

Arrange the grits bites on a platter and top each with a spoonful of the shrimp and vegetable mixture. Sprinkle the sliced green parts of the scallions on top for a fresh pop of color and oniony bite. Serve with remoulade sauce on the side if you like — it adds a creamy, tangy contrast that takes these bites over the top.

How to Serve Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites Recipe

Garnishes

I always go for thinly sliced green scallions to sprinkle over the top — they add freshness and a mild bite that compliments the rich shrimp and cheese perfectly. A little drizzle of remoulade sauce on the side adds creaminess and a zesty lift I just can’t resist.

Side Dishes

These bites are great on their own, but if you want to build out a full spread, pair them with a simple mixed greens salad, some roasted corn salad, or even some sliced fresh fruit for balance. For events, I like a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with a twist of lemon alongside.

Creative Ways to Present

Hosting a party? Arrange the Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites on a tiered platter for a striking presentation. I’ve also placed them in mini paper cups for easy grab-and-go finger food that guests love. Adding small skewers or toothpicks makes them even easier to serve and eat, especially at cocktail parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep any leftover fried grits bites layered between paper towels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This helps keep them from getting soggy – just remember, the shrimp topping is best kept separate and consumed quickly for freshness.

Freezing

I’ve frozen the breaded but uncooked grits bites before frying – just flash freeze them on the baking sheet and then transfer to a freezer bag. This way, you can fry them straight from frozen for a fresh, crispy treat any time without the full prep.

Reheating

To keep that crispy crust, I reheat leftover bites in a toaster oven or regular oven at around 350°F for 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it tends to make the crust soggy. Reheat the shrimp topping gently on the stove or in the microwave, just until warmed through.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Shrimp & Grits Bites Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s that perfect blend of comfort and elegance that works for any occasion. I love sharing it with friends who come over, and I get so many compliments every time I serve it. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser with a little Southern soul and a big punch of flavor, give this recipe a try – I promise you, it’ll become a favorite in your rotation just like it is in mine!

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