Description
Cajun Shrimp and Cheesy Grits Bites are a bold and flavorful appetizer featuring spicy Cajun-seasoned shrimp, creamy grits enriched with melted shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal), and smoky smoked turkey bacon. These bite-sized savory treats combine a perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and smoky flavors, making them easy to prepare and perfect for parties, snacks, or any occasion that calls for a crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Creamy Grits Base
- 1 cup quick-cooking grits
- 2 cups water or low-sodium broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Shrimp
- 12 ounces small shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, herbs blend)
- 1 teaspoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Smoked Turkey Bacon
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon
Instructions
- Prepare the Grits: Cook the quick-cooking grits according to package instructions, using water or broth. Once cooked, stir in butter and shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) until fully combined and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside and allow to cool slightly.
- Cook the Shrimp: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add the peeled shrimp and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and develop a slight char. Add vegetarian Worcestershire sauce and apple cider vinegar, stirring to coat. Season with salt and pepper as needed, then remove from heat.
- Crisp the Smoked Turkey Bacon: In a separate pan, cook smoked turkey bacon slices over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the cooked shrimp and chopped smoked turkey bacon into the cheesy grits mixture. Shape the combined mixture into small, bite-sized balls and place them evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the bites for 15-20 minutes or until they are firm and have golden edges.
Notes
- Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp to ensure optimal texture and flavor.
- Avoid overcooking the shrimp to prevent a rubbery texture; cook just until pink and firm.
- Chilling the grits mixture slightly before shaping helps the bites hold their shape better during baking.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to balance the spice level to your preference.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) melts very smoothly and enhances the texture of the bites.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern, Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 bites
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Cajun shrimp, cheesy grits, smoked turkey bacon, appetizer, snack, party food, Southern cuisine, spicy shrimp, baked bites