If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, the Shrimp and Scallion Grit Cups with Creamy Cheese Center Recipe is your new go-to. These little cups pack a punch with their rich, creamy cheese hidden inside tender, buttery grits, all crowned with perfectly seasoned shrimp and bright scallions. They’re ideal for impressing guests or just treating yourself to something truly special. The balance of smoky paprika, sharp cheddar, and the freshness of scallions makes every bite a delightful experience that’s hard to forget.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to bringing out the best in this dish. Each one plays a crucial role—whether it’s the creamy texture of the cheeses, the subtle sweetness of the shrimp, or the fragrant punch of garlic and paprika.
- 1 cup stone-ground grits: The heart of the dish providing a creamy, slightly textured base.
- 4 cups water: To cook the grits perfectly fluffy and tender.
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Adds a tangy richness that melts beautifully.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened: For that creamy, luscious center surprise.
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: Provides a savory, slightly sweet seafood topping.
- 3 scallions, sliced: Offers a fresh, mild onion flavor.
- 2 tbsp butter: Enhances richness and smoothness in the grits.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers a fragrant aroma and savory depth.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a smoky warmth that complements the shrimp perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing ingredients and adding a slight fruity note.
How to Make Shrimp and Scallion Grit Cups with Creamy Cheese Center Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Grits
Start by bringing 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium-sized pot. Gradually whisk in the stone-ground grits to avoid lumps, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and let it cook for about 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the grits to thicken into a creamy, comforting texture that will hold up well in your cups.
Step 2: Add Cheeses and Butter
Once the grits have thickened, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the sharp cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and butter. This mix becomes wonderfully creamy and smooth, creating the perfect base for your cups. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to balance the flavors perfectly.
Step 3: Prepare the Shrimp and Scallions
Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until it becomes fragrant—about a minute. Then add the shrimp along with the sliced scallions and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper, and cook everything until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, just 3 to 4 minutes. This simple sauté ensures the shrimp stay juicy and flavorful.
Step 4: Assemble the Grit Cups
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin to keep the cups from sticking. Spoon the grits halfway into each muffin cup. Add a small dollop of cream cheese in the center of each, then top with more grits until the cream cheese is completely covered. This hidden creamy center is what makes this recipe so irresistible.
Step 5: Bake and Top
Bake your assembled grits cups for about 15 minutes, or until they are set and have a slight golden crust on top. Once out of the oven, generously spoon the cooked shrimp and scallion mixture on each cup. The warmth from the grits will keep the shrimp perfectly tender and ready to delight your palate.
How to Serve Shrimp and Scallion Grit Cups with Creamy Cheese Center Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives make an excellent garnish to add a pop of color and a refreshing finish. A light drizzle of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also boost the flavor and bring brightness to these indulgent cups.
Side Dishes
Pair your grits cups with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the cheese and shrimp. They also make a fantastic appetizer alongside a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water infused with citrus.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual gathering, serve the cups directly from the muffin tin to keep things cozy and homey. If hosting a more refined event, plate them on a sleek platter with a garnish of microgreens and edible flowers. You can also experiment with adding a touch of spicy aioli or a dollop of sour cream for extra flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Shrimp and Scallion Grit Cups with Creamy Cheese Center Recipe keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store them in an airtight container, separating the shrimp topping from the grits cups if possible to preserve texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked grits cups before adding the shrimp. Wrap each cup individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll maintain their quality for up to a month. The shrimp topping is best prepared fresh or refrigerated and added upon reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the grits cups gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Reheat the shrimp quickly in a skillet over low heat just until warmed. Then assemble and serve for best texture and taste.
FAQs
Can I use regular grits instead of stone-ground grits?
While stone-ground grits provide a lovely texture and more authentic flavor, you can use regular grits if needed—just adjust the cooking time according to package instructions as regular grits tend to cook faster and have a finer texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Grits are naturally gluten-free, and as long as your other ingredients (like cheeses and spices) don’t have added gluten, this recipe is safe for gluten-free diets.
Can I substitute the shrimp with another protein?
Yes, you can swap shrimp for diced cooked chicken or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Just be sure to season them well to compliment the creamy grits.
What cheese works best for the creamy center?
Cream cheese is ideal for the smooth, creamy center, but if you want some variety, a mix of goat cheese or ricotta can also give a lovely texture and mild flavor.
How do I prevent the grits cups from sticking to the muffin tin?
Greasing the muffin tin well with butter or non-stick spray is essential. You can also line the tin with parchment paper squares if you want extra insurance against sticking.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try the Shrimp and Scallion Grit Cups with Creamy Cheese Center Recipe, it will become a cherished favorite in your cooking repertoire. This dish is all about comforting textures and bold, balanced flavors wrapped up in a fun and unique presentation. Give it a go the next time you want to wow your friends or just treat yourself to something wonderful and satisfying.
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Shrimp and Scallion Grit Cups with Creamy Cheese Center Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
Delight in these Shrimp and Scallion Grit Cups featuring creamy cheese centers and a flavorful shrimp topping. Soft, cheesy grits baked to perfection and crowned with a savory shrimp and scallion blend make for an elegant appetizer or small plate that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
Grits
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Shrimp Topping
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 scallions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Grits: Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium pot. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits to prevent lumps. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until the grits are thick and creamy.
- Add Cheese and Butter: Remove the cooked grits from heat. Stir in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup softened cream cheese, and 2 tablespoons of butter until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Shrimp and Scallions: Add the shrimp, 3 sliced scallions, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and salt and pepper to the skillet. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking.
- Prepare Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin to prevent sticking.
- Assemble Grit Cups: Spoon the cheesy grits into each muffin cup, filling halfway. Place a small dollop of cream cheese in the center of each, then cover with more grits to enclose the cheese fully.
- Bake: Bake the assembled grits cups in the preheated oven for 15 minutes until they are set and slightly golden on top.
- Top with Shrimp Mixture: Once baked, top each grits cup with the prepared shrimp and scallion mixture.
- Serve: Serve these delicious grits cups warm as an appetizer or as a small plate that’s perfect for entertaining.
Notes
- Use stone-ground grits for the best texture and flavor.
- You can substitute sharp cheddar with your favorite cheese, such as gouda or fontina.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shrimp mixture.
- Ensure the shrimp are fully cooked but not overcooked to maintain tenderness.
- These grits cups can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving.
