Shrimp & Grits with Cajun Gravy

Shrimp & Grits with Cajun Gravy

adapted from Food Network

These are the cheesiest grits I have ever had. The smoked black pepper white cheddar cheese was a challenge to find. The only brand I found was made by Tillamook and it was only available at Sprouts . I think you would be able to use a more readily available smoked cheddar and add freshly crushed black pepper to taste.

Makes 4 servings

Grits:
1 Tbsp. butter
1 1/2 tsp. Better Than Bouillon Premium Roasted Chicken Base™ or powdered bouillon

1/2 cup grits

2 cups water
1 oz. block cream cheese
2 oz. smoked black pepper white cheddar cheese, chopped
2 1/2 oz. gouda, shredded
2 Tbsp. + 2 tsp. cup heavy cream
1/2 tsp. ground white pepper

Cajun Gravy:

1 strip bacon
1/4 cup tomato paste
1 cup heavy cream
1 Tbsp. paprika
1 Tbsp. Slap Ya Mama Original Blend Cajun Seasoning™
2 1/2 tsp. ground white pepper
2 tsp. chili powder
pinch of dried parsley

Shrimp:

1 lb. large shrimp, shelled and deveined
1 Tbsp. olive oil
1 Tbsp. butter
1/2 tablespoon Slap Ya Mama Original Blend Cajun Seasoning™

1. In a saucepan on medium heat, stir together the butter, bouillon and water until the butter is melted.
2. Add the grits; Cook until the grits are fluffy and tender, about 15 minutes. 
3. Add the cream cheese and stir until blended; Add the cheddar and gouda and stir until completely melted, about 10 minutes. 
4. Add the heavy cream and white pepper; Set aside and keep warm.
5. Cook the bacon in a skillet, then remove the bacon and crumble and set aside. 
6. Mix the tomato paste into the skillet with the bacon fat and cook until it turns a darker color.
7. Whisk in the the cream. 
8. Add the paprika, Creole seasoning, white pepper, chili powder and parsley and bring to a simmer until it thickens.
9. Meanwhile, melt the butter in a skillet with the oil.
10. Season the shrimp with the cajun seasoning.
11. Sauté the shrimp in a saucepan until opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side depending on the size of your shrimp.
12. Plate the grits, top with cajun gravy then shrimp and crumble bacon on top.

Enjoy!