Easy Shrimp-n-Grits

Serves: 4

Time: 30 minutes

1 qt. chicken stock ( It really does make a difference cooking the grits in stock! So good! You can also use water if you do not like the taste)
1 cup white or yellow grits.
1TB. butter
Kosher salt TT (to taste)
Cajun seasoning
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
1 pound shrimp, peeled, deveined and de-tailed
5 slices thick cut bacon, or 7 regular slices
1/2 a lemon
1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
1-2 garlic clove, minced
1/4 cup water or chicken stock
1/3 cup half and half or heavy cream

In a medium saute pan over medium-high heat cook bacon slices until just before they start to crisp. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on some paper towels. Reserve 1-2 TB of the bacon grease. ( I use all of what is in the pan)
Put the prepared shrimp in a bowl and sprinkle with about 1-2 tsp, of the Cajun seasoning. Stir to ensure each piece is coated with seasoning. Set aside.
In a medium saucepan, bring the stock, 1 TB butter and the grits to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer the grits for 7-10 minutes until they get thick and tender. Remove from the heat and stir in the cheese. Cover and set aside.
Working quickly, return the pan in which you cooked the bacon to medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with a little salt, and add to the skillet. Cook until the shrimp turn pink. About 60-90 seconds per side.
Lower the heat to medium-low. Add the bacon, green onions, garlic and a squeeze of lemon.
Add 1/4 cup water/stock to the pan and stir to create a “sauce”. Pour in the cream, taste, adjust seasonings if necessary. Cook for 1-2 minutes longer and then serve over the grits.

It really is that easy. I could eat this meal all the time! Enjoy!

Fun with MandyFaye