Name: Shrimp and Scallion Grit Cups with Creamy Cheese Center Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 cup stone-ground grits; 4 cups water; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed; 1/2 pound small shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped; 2 scallions, thinly sliced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and black pepper to taste; Nonstick cooking spray

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If you’re searching for the ultimate bite-sized appetizer with a delightful surprise inside, look no further than Shrimp and Scallion Grit Cups with Creamy Cheese Center. These savory, golden cups are everything you love about classic Southern shrimp and grits, reimagined into deliciously portable party fare with a melty, irresistible center of cream cheese tucked into each one. Whether you’re hosting brunch or looking to wow your friends at an evening get-together, this recipe is sure to become an instant favorite!

Shrimp and Scallion Grit Cups with Creamy Cheese Center Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Surprisingly simple ingredients come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures in this recipe. Each component brings something important, from creaminess to a pop of color or just the right touch of richness.

Stone-ground grits: The backbone of the cups, giving them their signature bite and hearty texture.
Water: Helps bring the grits to life and ensure the perfect creamy consistency.
Salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors throughout the dish.
Unsalted butter: Adds luscious richness and a little indulgence to the grits base.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melts into the grits for bold, cheesy flavor in every bite.
Cream cheese: The star of the creamy cheese center; use small cubes so each cup gets a melty surprise.
Small shrimp: Brings sweet, briny flavor; be sure to chop them so you get shrimp in every mouthful.
Scallions: Adds a fresh and mild oniony crunch as well as a splash of color.
Olive oil: Keeps the shrimp juicy as you sauté them with the scallions and spices.
Smoked paprika: Lends a subtle smoky depth that beautifully complements the shrimp.
Salt and black pepper: For seasoning the shrimp mixture just right—taste as you go!
Nonstick cooking spray: Guarantees an easy release, so your grit cups come out perfectly intact.

How to Make Shrimp and Scallion Grit Cups with Creamy Cheese Center

Step 1: Prepare Your Muffin Tin

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Grab a standard 12-cup muffin tin and give each cup a generous coating with nonstick cooking spray—this step is your insurance for perfect grit cups that slide right out when they’re done baking!

Step 2: Cook the Grits

Bring the water and salt to a lively boil in a medium saucepan. Slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let them simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring every so often until the grits are thick, creamy, and beginning to hug the spoon—this is where Southern comfort begins.

Step 3: Add the Cheese and Butter

Once your grits are finished, immediately stir in the butter and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Combine until everything is silky and all the cheese is melted. Let the grits cool slightly so they’re easier to handle when you fill the muffin tin.

Step 4: Shape the Grit Cups

Spoon about 2 tablespoons of those creamy, cheesy grits into each muffin cup. Use the back of your spoon to press the mixture gently up the sides and form a little well in the center. Imagine these as mini edible bowls just waiting for their cheesy surprise.

Step 5: Add the Creamy Cheese Center

This is the magic moment! Drop a cube of cream cheese right into the middle well of each grit cup. The cream cheese will melt into dreamy softness as the cups bake, making for a gooey, decadent center in every bite of your Shrimp and Scallion Grit Cups with Creamy Cheese Center.

Step 6: Cover with More Grits

Add another small spoonful of the grits mixture over the cream cheese to completely enclose it. This little blanket of grits ensures the centers stay gooey and hidden until that first tasty bite.

Step 7: Cook the Shrimp and Scallions

While your oven preheats, set a skillet over medium heat and drizzle in the olive oil. Add the chopped shrimp, sliced scallions, smoked paprika, plus a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, just until the shrimp are pink and perfectly cooked through, soaking up that smoky, oniony goodness.

Step 8: Top and Bake

Spoon a generous amount of the shrimp and scallion mixture over each grit cup. Pop the tin into the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the cups have set. Let them cool for a few minutes before using a butter knife to gently release each cup.

How to Serve Shrimp and Scallion Grit Cups with Creamy Cheese Center

Garnishes

Give your Shrimp and Scallion Grit Cups with Creamy Cheese Center the star treatment with simple, beautiful garnishes: a sprinkle of extra sliced scallions, a dusting of smoked paprika, or even a delicate drizzle of hot sauce if your crowd likes a little kick. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley also add a splash of color and freshness.

Side Dishes

These grit cups are right at home alongside all your favorite brunch dishes—think crisp mixed greens, tangy fruit salad, or even a platter of deviled eggs. For heartier fare, serve them with a classic Southern succotash or a cool creamy coleslaw for perfect balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For maximum party magic, serve your Shrimp and Scallion Grit Cups with Creamy Cheese Center on a rustic wooden board with little appetizer forks. For brunch, nestle them on a bed of baby spinach or arugula to add color and a peppery bite. They also shine as part of a passed hors d’oeuvres platter—just add festive toothpicks and watch them vanish!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you miraculously have leftovers, store your grit cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll hold beautifully for up to three days, making them perfect for snacking or adding to a weekday lunch.

Freezing

To enjoy these treats later, place the cooled Shrimp and Scallion Grit Cups with Creamy Cheese Center on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container and freeze for up to two months. Be sure to label—and try not to forget about them!

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat the grit cups in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through. You can also use the microwave in a pinch, but the oven keeps them crispy on the edges and creamy inside, just as they should be.

FAQs

Can I use instant grits instead of stone-ground?

While stone-ground grits offer the best flavor and texture, you can use instant grits in a pinch—just be aware that the result may be a bit softer and less hearty. Adjust cooking times according to the package instructions.

Can I substitute another cheese for cheddar or cream cheese?

Absolutely! Try swapping sharp cheddar for pepper jack if you like spice, or use goat cheese in the center for a tangy twist. No matter what, keep that creamy center for the signature wow factor.

How do I keep the grit cups from sticking to the muffin tin?

Be generous with nonstick spray and let the cups cool for a few minutes before removing them. A thin silicone spatula or butter knife gently loosened around the edges helps pop them out with ease.

Can these be made gluten-free?

Yes! Grits are naturally gluten-free—just double-check all your ingredients, especially cheeses and seasonings, to ensure they’re certified gluten-free and safe for those with sensitivities.

Are the grit cups good served at room temperature?

They’re at their very best when warm with the cheese center all melty, but Shrimp and Scallion Grit Cups with Creamy Cheese Center are still delicious at room temperature, making them a superb choice for entertaining and potlucks.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll fall in love with Shrimp and Scallion Grit Cups with Creamy Cheese Center just as much as everyone I’ve shared them with! They’re a warm, cheesy, utterly irresistible bite that always brings smiles to the table—don’t be surprised if they disappear faster than you can make them!

Shrimp and Scallion Grit Cups with Creamy Cheese Center Recipe

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4.7 from 24 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 12 grit cups 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These Shrimp and Scallion Grit Cups with a Creamy Cheese Center are a delightful Southern-inspired appetizer. Creamy cheddar grits surround a hidden pocket of cream cheese, topped with flavorful shrimp and scallions. Perfect for brunch or as a party snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Grit Cups:

1 cup stone-ground grits
4 cups water
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Creamy Cheese Center:

4 ounces cream cheese, cubed

Shrimp Topping:

1/2 pound small shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
2 scallions, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste

Nonstick cooking spray

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F and spray a 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray.
Cook Grits: Boil water with salt, stir in grits, cook until creamy. Stir in butter and cheddar cheese. Let cool slightly.
Assemble Cups: Spoon grits into muffin cups, add cream cheese cubes, cover with more grits. Sauté shrimp, scallions, paprika, salt, and pepper. Top each cup with shrimp mixture.
Bake: Bake for 15–18 minutes until set and golden. Cool slightly before serving.