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Crispy Cheesy Shrimp and Grits Bites

Crispy Cheesy Shrimp and Grits Bites
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Crispy Cheesy Shrimp and Grits Bites are a flavorful Southern-inspired appetizer combining tender shrimp, creamy cheese, and comforting grits, all wrapped in a crunchy golden crust. Perfect as a party snack or light meal, these bites balance cheesy richness with a crispy texture for an irresistible treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Grits Base

  • 1 cup stone-ground or quick-cooking grits
  • 2 cups water or broth (for cooking grits)
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 12 oz fresh or thawed shrimp, peeled, deveined, and diced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Coating and Frying

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for gluten-free option)
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • Neutral high-smoke point oil (such as vegetable or canola oil), for frying
  • Optional: seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes/panko for extra crunch

Seasonings and Garnishes

  • Garlic powder, to taste
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)
  • Spicy aioli or dipping sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Grits: Cook the grits according to package instructions using water or broth. For best texture, use stone-ground grits. Once cooked, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy, forming a rich base.
  2. Season and Cook the Shrimp: Dice shrimp into small pieces. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Quickly sauté the shrimp in a lightly oiled pan over medium heat until just cooked through and juicy, then remove from heat.
  3. Combine Shrimp and Grits: Gently fold the cooked shrimp into the cheesy grits mixture, ensuring the shrimp is evenly distributed throughout.
  4. Form the Bites: Let the shrimp and grits mixture cool completely so it holds together. Once cooled, shape the mixture into small bite-sized balls or patties ready for coating.
  5. Coat the Bites: Prepare a dredging station with beaten eggs, and a mixture of flour and cornmeal seasoned with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional cayenne. Dip each bite first into the eggs, then into the flour and cornmeal mixture, ensuring a thorough and even coating.
  6. Fry to Perfection: Heat oil in a deep pan to about 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated bites in batches, avoiding overcrowding, until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Notes

  • Let the mixture cool fully before shaping for better bite integrity.
  • Maintain oil temperature around 350°F to avoid burning or undercooking.
  • Fry in small batches to keep oil temperature steady and ensure crispiness.
  • Use fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for best flavor and texture.
  • Add crushed cornflakes or panko to the breading for extra crunch.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
  • Reheat bites in oven or air fryer to retain crispiness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp bites, cheesy shrimp appetizers, crispy shrimp snacks, southern appetizer, shrimp and grits bites, fried shrimp bites, gluten free shrimp bites

Find it online: https://juliaglam.com/crispy-cheesy-shrimp-and-grits-bites/