Southern Shrimp and Grits

Instructions

1. 1

   In a large saucepan, bring milk and water to a boil. Slowly whisk in grits and reduce heat to low.

2. 2

   Cook grits for 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently, until thick and creamy.

3. 3

   Meanwhile, cook bacon in a large skillet until crispy. Remove and chop into pieces, reserving 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.

4. 4

   Pat shrimp dry and season with cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

5. 5

   Heat the skillet with bacon fat over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.

6. 6

   Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

7. 7

   Add lemon juice and half the green onions, toss shrimp to coat, then remove from heat.

8. 8

   Once grits are cooked, stir in butter and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

9. 9

   Divide creamy grits among four bowls, top with shrimp mixture, crispy bacon pieces, and remaining green onions.

10. 10

    Serve immediately while hot.