Crook’s Corner Shrimp and Grits Recipe

Crook’s Corner, a beloved restaurant in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, is renowned for its warm ambiance and delectable Southern cuisine. Among the many comforting dishes it offers, the Shrimp and Grits stands out as a favorite, and thanks to a recent feature in Southern Living magazine, you can recreate this culinary masterpiece at home. This dish is sure to impress your family and friends, transforming any dinner into a special occasion. Don’t let the lengthy ingredient list deter you; this recipe is straightforward and comes together in no time, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend gathering.

Recipe Overview

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: One Dish Meal
• Servings: 4
• Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5 from 93 reviews)

Nutritional Information

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Grits

Begin by bringing the water, chicken broth, half-and-half, and salt to a vigorous boil in a medium-sized saucepan. Once boiling, gradually whisk in the grits. Reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes or until the grits have thickened to your desired consistency. When the grits are ready, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, butter, and half a teaspoon of Tabasco sauce. Mix well to incorporate the cheeses and butter, then set aside, keeping warm.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it reaches a crispy texture. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and let it drain on paper towels, reserving about 1 tablespoon of the bacon drippings in the skillet. After the bacon has cooled slightly, crumble it into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Shrimp

Season the peeled and deveined shrimp with a sprinkle of black pepper and salt. Next, dredge the shrimp in all-purpose flour, ensuring they are evenly coated for a nice crust when cooked.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables and Shrimp

Using the reserved bacon drippings in the skillet, heat the pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes or until they become tender and golden. After the mushrooms are ready, toss in the chopped green onions and continue to sauté for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant. Next, add the floured shrimp and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes or until the shrimp turn a lovely pink color and are just cooked through. Pour in the chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, and an additional tablespoon of Tabasco sauce. Stir well to combine, scraping the bottom of the skillet to loosen any browned bits. Allow the mixture to cook for another 2 minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

To serve, divide the creamy grits evenly among four large, shallow soup bowls. Generously spoon the shrimp and mushroom mixture over the grits, ensuring each bowl gets a hearty portion of the flavorful sauce. Finally, sprinkle the crumbled bacon over each serving for added crunch and flavor. Serve the dish with lemon wedges on the side, allowing everyone to squeeze fresh lemon juice over their shrimp and grits according to their taste.

Final Thoughts

Crook’s Corner Shrimp and Grits is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the essence of Southern cooking right to your dining table. With its rich, creamy grits paired with perfectly seasoned shrimp and crispy bacon, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your household, just as it has in mine. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or enjoying it as a comforting weeknight dinner, each bite will transport you to the charming atmosphere of Chapel Hill. Enjoy the warmth, comfort, and exquisite flavors this recipe brings to your home.

By following this delightful recipe, you can savor the flavors of the South right in your kitchen, making memories with every spoonful. Happy cooking!