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Cajun Shrimp and Cheesy Grits Bites

Cajun Shrimp and Cheesy Grits Bites

  • Author: David
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 24 bites 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

These Easy Cajun Shrimp and Cheesy Grits Bites are a flavorful southern-inspired appetizer combining perfectly seasoned shrimp with creamy, cheesy grits featuring smoked turkey bacon and shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal). Ready in under 30 minutes, these bite-sized treats offer a smoky, spicy, and savory experience perfect for parties or quick snacks.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Seasonings

  • 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning blend
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking shrimp and turkey bacon)

Smoked Turkey Bacon

  • 4 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped

Cheesy Grits Mixture

  • 1 cup quick-cooking grits
  • 4 cups water (or as per package instructions for grits)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal)
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions
  • 1 tsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Grits: Cook the quick-cooking grits according to package instructions using water. Stir in butter and shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to cool slightly so the grits firm up for shaping.
  2. Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon: Chop the smoked turkey bacon into small pieces. In a skillet, sauté the pieces in olive oil over medium heat until crisp. Remove the cooked turkey bacon pieces and drain on paper towels, but keep the flavorful drippings in the skillet for cooking the shrimp.
  3. Season and Sauté the Shrimp: Toss the peeled shrimp in Cajun seasoning until fully coated. Using the drippings from the cooked smoked turkey bacon, cook the shrimp over medium-high heat until they turn pink and are just cooked through, approximately 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat.
  4. Combine Ingredients and Shape Bites: In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy cheesy grits, cooked smoked turkey bacon pieces, chopped green onions, and cooked shrimp. Using a spoon or your hands, form the mixture into small, bite-sized balls or patties.
  5. Cook the Bites: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil. Cook the grits bites in batches, flipping carefully to brown all sides and heat through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Use medium shrimp for the best texture and bite size.
  • Slightly undercook the grits when preparing to help the bites hold their shape but remain tender.
  • Allow the grits mixture to cool before shaping to prevent stickiness and make forming easier.
  • Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to ensure uniform bite size for even cooking.
  • Serve the bites immediately to enjoy the melted cheese and juicy shrimp at their best.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Pan-frying
  • Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3 bites
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: Cajun shrimp, cheesy grits, smoked turkey bacon, bite-sized appetizer, southern snack, party food, quick appetizer, gluten free

Find it online: https://yummyrecipeszone.com/cajun-shrimp-and-cheesy-grits-bites/