Shrimp and Grits Waffles

Why make Shrimp and Grits Waffles?

Shrimp and grits is a classic Southern dish that is typically enjoyed for breakfast or brunch. This recipe takes that classic dish and puts a fun and delicious twist on it by turning it into waffles! The crispy waffle serves as the perfect base for the savory shrimp and grits mixture, making for a unique and flavorful meal that is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for a weekend brunch or any meal of the day!

Ingredients

For the grits:

• 1 cup grits
• 2 cups water
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the shrimp:

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/4 cup chicken broth

For the waffles:

• Waffle mix
• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring water and milk to a boil.
2. Gradually stir in grits, salt, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in butter and cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
6. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
8. In the same skillet, sauté onion and red bell pepper until tender, about 5 minutes.
9. Add Cajun seasoning and chicken broth and stir to combine.
10. Add shrimp back to skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
11. Prepare waffle mix according to package instructions.
12. Spray waffle maker with cooking spray and cook waffles according to the instructions.
13. Top the waffles with the shrimp and sauce mixture.
14. Serve hot and enjoy!

Vegetarian/Vegan Variation

To make this recipe vegetarian/vegan, simply omit the shrimp and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. For added flavor, you can also add some sautéed mushrooms or tofu to the onion and bell pepper mixture.

Gluten-Free Variation

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free waffle mix and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Conclusion

This Shrimp and Grits Waffles recipe is a fun and delicious twist on a classic Southern dish. The combination of crispy waffles and savory shrimp and grits is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for a weekend brunch or any meal of the day. Give it a try and see for yourself why this recipe is such a crowd-pleaser!

FAQ

What are grits?

Grits are a Southern American dish made from ground corn. They are similar to polenta or porridge and can be eaten for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Can I use instant grits instead of regular grits?

You can use instant grits instead of regular grits, but the texture may be slightly different. Instant grits are pre-cooked and processed, so they may not have the same flavor or texture as regular grits.

What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of shrimp for this recipe, but we recommend using large or jumbo shrimp for the best flavor and texture.

Can I make the waffles ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the waffles ahead of time and reheat them in a toaster or oven before serving. However, they may not be as crispy as freshly-made waffles.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use a different type of cheese if you prefer. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack would all work well in this recipe.

Can I use a different type of hot sauce?

Yes, you can use a different type of hot sauce if you prefer. Tabasco, Sriracha, or Frank’s RedHot would all work well in this recipe.

What can I serve with shrimp and grits waffles?

You can serve shrimp and grits waffles with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or sautéed greens for a complete meal.

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp instead of fresh shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.

Can I make this recipe without a waffle maker?

Yes, you can make this recipe without a waffle maker by making regular grits and serving them with the shrimp and sauce on top.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

You can make this recipe spicier by adding more hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the shrimp sauce or by using a spicier cheese like Pepper Jack.