Cajun Shrimp and Grits

Description
When we're craving southern comfort food, nothing hits the spot like Cajun shrimp and grits. Between the cheesy grits, spicy shrimp and smoky bacon, this dish is the very definition of full-flavored.
Ingredients
- 8 cups water
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups quick-cooking grits
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup butter, cubed
- 8 bacon strips, chopped
- 2 pounds uncooked shrimp (26-30 per pound), peeled and deveined
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
Directions
- In a large saucepan, bring water and salt to a boil. Slowly stir in grits. Reduce heat to medium-low; cook, covered, until thickened, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat. Stir in cheese and butter until melted; keep warm.
- Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp, stirring occasionally. Remove with a slotted spoon; drain on paper towels. Cook and stir shrimp in bacon drippings until shrimp turn pink, 3-4 minutes. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Stir in Cajun seasoning and parsley.
- Divide grits among 8 serving bowls; top with shrimp mixture and the bacon.