Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Shrimp + Grits
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Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Shrimp + Grits
Dive into the deliciousness of Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Shrimp + Grits! Picture creamy, buttery wild-caught jumbo shrimp swimming in tomatoey Tuscan sauce, paired with velvety Southern cheese grits. It's comfort food with a flavorful twist--- a perfect weeknight dinner option! Vegan + Dairy-free Option.
As a true Southerner, I'm all about tasty grits recipes—you've probably noticed...And since you've all been loving my Creamy Tuscan 'Marry Me' Chicken and 'Marry Me’ Tuscan Chicken Gnocchi Soup, I thought it was time to add a shrimp version to the mix. Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Shrimp + Grits is simply so amazingly delicious that all I can say is “chef's kiss” Haha.
Creamy Tuscan shrimp is seriously the bomb! So juicy and bursting with flavor, especially when it's soaking up that creamy Tuscan goodness. This recipe is just what you need for a chill family dinner, a cozy date night, or those crazy weeknights when you're in a rush but still want something tasty. I use my Creamy Southern Cheese Grits as the base and it makes the best flavor combo! If you're into grits like I am, you've gotta try my Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits, Creamy Southern Sweet Potato Grits, and Nashville Creamy Southern Sweet Potato Grits next! They're all winners, trust me!
This dish is a total crowd-pleaser and fits any diet, with dairy-free + vegan options. It takes about 40 minutes to make. The combo of heavy cream, Tuscan herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese makes the sauce seriously irresistible. It's the kind of meal you'll find yourself making over and over again during the week. If you're hunting for more weeknight dinner ideas check out my "Weeknight Meals" category on the site!
Jump to:
- Reasons Why You’ll Love Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Shrimp + Grits!
- How To Make Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Shrimp + Grits!
- Ingredients
- What Is Grits?
- Are Grits the Same as Polenta?
- My Top Five Tips for Perfect Grits
- What Type Of Shirmp Is Best?
- Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
- Do You Eat The Skin On Shrimp?
- Can I Add Veggies to this Dish?
- Can I Make A Vegan Version?
- Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Shrimp + Grits Q + A's
- More Delicious Seafood Recipes
- MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?
- Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Shrimp + Grits
Reasons Why You’ll Love Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Shrimp + Grits!
- Creamy Tuscan flavors that are simply irresistible
- Juicy shrimp perfectly complementing the rich grits
- Quick + easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
- Offers dairy-free + vegan options
- A crowd-pleaser that will become a weekly favorite
- And just absolutely wholesome and perfect for any kind of weather.
How To Make Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Shrimp + Grits!
Start this recipe by making the simple Tuscan seasoning. This is a spice blend you’ll want to keep on hand to season everything from Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup to Baked Tuscan Chicken and Gnocchi. The ingredients are simple and you probably already have them at home. For the grits, you can follow my Creamy Southern Cheese Grits recipe! And finally, you can go ahead and make the creamy sauce + sear the shrimp.
Ingredients
To make this creamy Tuscan shrimp + grits recipe you will need:
CREAMY GRITS:
- Creamy Southern Cheese Grits. See the recipe HERE!
HOMEMADE TUSCAN BLEND:
- 1 Tbsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsps dried parsley
- 2 tsps dried basil
- 2 tsps dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
TUSCAN 'MARRY ME' SHRIMP:
- Wild-caught jumbo shrimp. I love to use jumbo, which are the biggest and sweetest.
- Butter. Use unsalted butter to add additional flavor + fat to the sauce. For vegan/dairy-free option, use vegan butter.
- Extra virgin olive oil. Feel free to use your favorite high-quality EVOO. My fave tried and trusted brand is California Olive Ranch.
- Tuscan blend. You can purchase my Marry Me Blend for ease and authentic flavor.
- Garlic cloves. You can never have too much! I recommend using 4 cloves to infuse the sauce with flavor.
- Heavy cream. I recommend organic–always! I use Organic Valley. Of course, for a dairy-free option, just use full-fat coconut cream/milk.
- Seafood or vegetable stock. Use store-bought low-sodium broth or make your own!
- White cooking wine. Choose dry wine for the best flavor. This adds a bit of acidity to the sauce.
- Lemon. Freshly-squeezed
- Sundried tomatoes. This adds a rich jammy tomato flavor.
- Tomato paste. This is my secret flavor enhancer and the thing that gives this dish some color.
- Parmesan cheese. I love to freshly grate my cheese, however, you can use your favorite shredded brand---quality does matter! For a dairy-free option, So Delicious Dairy-Free or Violife cheese shreds taste great.
- Cherry or grape tomatoes. Halved. You can also roast these for the best flavor-- see my herb-roasted tomatoes recipe.
- Kale. Chopped + destemmed.
SHOP MY FAVORITE TOOLS FOR COOKING, ESPECIALLY FOR THIS MARRY ME SAUCE!!
Here, I’ve curated a list of baking + cooking essentials that I use to achieve my favorite dishes, especially with this Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Shrimp + Grits! Everything from my fave skillet, pots, wooden spoons, parchment paper, and more. SEE THEM HERE!
What Is Grits?
Ever wondered, "What is grits? or "how to cook grits?" Well, if you didn't grow up in the South, this might be a delicious revelation for you!
Grits, my friend, are a Southern culinary treasure! They're like a warm, comforting hug in a bowl – made from ground, dried corn, and they're a staple in Southern cuisine. Think of them as a creamy, dreamy porridge that can be enjoyed sweet or savory, depending on your mood. They've got a rich, buttery flavor and a smooth, slightly grainy texture that's just oh-so-comforting
Are Grits the Same as Polenta?
Basically, because polenta and grits are both made from ground corn, you can use them interchangeably. However, grits are higher in starch than polenta, so if you do choose to substitute in polenta for grits, you won't have to stir it as frequently, but it won't cook up as creamy as grits.
My Top Five Tips for Perfect Grits
Here are my top tips when learning how to cook grits:
#1: Heat + Soak Grits: Much like cashews, this allows grits to soften, cook faster, and become more creamy.
#2: Boil grits for 20-30 minutes uncovered, but make sure to stir regularly to avoid lumps.
#3: It's all about adding milk, water, + heavy cream with cheese for the ultimate creaminess.
#4: Don't be afraid to season your girts. It amplifies the flavors more.
#5: Low + slow is always best. This allows the grits to slowly release their starches for a decadent, silky texture.
What Type Of Shirmp Is Best?
When selecting shrimp for this recipe, I suggest going for jumbo or large shrimp. These sizes strike a balance between being substantial enough to provide a satisfying bite and not too overwhelming.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
Yes! While it may sound counterintuitive, using frozen and thawed, shrimp can actually be advantageous. Opting for frozen shrimp allows you to have more control over the quality and timing of your meal preparation. It's like having a secret stash of deliciousness in your freezer, ready to be transformed into a scrumptious meal whenever you desire an easy weeknight dinner.
Do You Eat The Skin On Shrimp?
Yes, you can if desired! The shrimp shells are cooked until tender and are infused with seasonings and spice, which make it truly easy and delicious to eat as a whole. Of course, if preferred, you can always remove the shells.
Can I Add Veggies to this Dish?
Definitely! This is a great recipe to mix and match the ingredients/toppings. For added nutrients, fiber, and color, add your favorite veggies.
You can add roasted cauliflower, brussels sprouts, bell peppers, asparagus, green peas, roasted herb tomatoes, mushrooms, or leafy greens (kale, spinach, collard greens). All will be delicious!
If you want to add some greens to your grits, you certainly can. My article, Our Top 12 Favorite Healthy Green Leafy Vegetables shares a list of great greens! Off the top—-kale, spinach or collard greens make great additions. Also, roasted broccolini is one of my faves to adds.
Can I Make A Vegan Version?
Absolutely! I've got a vegan Creamy Southern Sweet Potato Grits with Chickpeas recipe already up on the site. But if you want to go vegan with the grits (check out the FAQ below for tips), it's super easy. Then, you can just pick another vegan "meat" option to swim in that amazing 'Marry Me' sauce. Personally, I love hearty and filling vegan choices like:
- Tempeh
- Vegan/ Plant-based alternatives like Gardein
- Cauliflower
- Mushrooms
- Chickpeas
- Seitan
- Tofu
- Jackfruit
- Lentils
Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Shrimp + Grits Q + A's
Any leftovers can be kept in a tightly sealed container and refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, it's best when done in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop. You'll need to add a bit of heavy cream or seafood stock to re-create the creaminess of the sauce when heating it up. Stir in the added liquid and it should become creamy again.
Absolutely! To make this sauce dairy-free, simply use vegan butter instead of the regular butter. Then swap the cream with full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream. And use your favorite dairy-free shredded cheese or nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.
Yes! If desired, you can reduce the amounts slightly. Please know that this recipe is bold in spice/herb flavor, so feel free to adjust based on your tastebuds.
See my post on how to cook Creamy Southern Cheese Grits---Complete with that signature Southern flavor!
More Delicious Seafood Recipes
If you enjoyed Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Shrimp + Grits , definitely throw these mouthwatering seafood recipes onto your "must-make next" list:
- Jamaican Spicy 'Pepper' Shrimp
- Creamy Lobster Bisque
- Honey Garlic Shrimp with Broccoli
- Spicy Cajun Shrimp, Kale + Cauliflower Rice
- Savory Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
- Best Easy Blackened Shrimp Po’Boy
- Parmesan Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Linguine
- Jerk Lobster Rolls (Sweet & Spicy BBQ)
MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?
If you tried this Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Shrimp + Grits recipe or any other recipe on my website, please please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. And don't forget to tag @orchidsnsweettea_ on Instagram and hashtag it #orchidsandsweettea! I love hearing from you!
Tuscan ‘Marry Me’ Shrimp + Grits
Ingredients
CREAMY GRITS:
- 1 Creamy Southern Cheese Grits
TUSCAN 'MARRY ME' SHRIMP:
- 1 lb. wild-caught jumbo shrimp, deveined
- 3 Tbsps unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon Extra virgin olive oil
- 1-2 Tbsps Tuscan Marry Me blend (You can purchase my Marry Me Blend for authentic flavor or make this homemade as well---See Notes)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 ½ cups organic heavy cream
- ½ cup seafood or vegetable stock, organic
- 3 Tbsps white cooking wine
- ½ lemon, freshly-squeezed
- 1 tablespoon organic tomato paste
- 1 cup freshly-grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (You can also roast these for the best flavor; See Notes!)
- 1 cup chopped kale, organic
Instructions
TO MAKE THE CREAMY GRITS:
- To make the most creamy Southern grits, see my Creamy Southern Cheese Grits recipe!
SAUTE/SEAR THE SHRIMP:
- In a medium 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 Tbsps of butter until melted. Add in the minced garlic to sauté frequently about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Next, add in the shrimp (season with salt + black pepper for taste) and cook on both sides (about 3-4 minutes), until pink and cooked through. Set aside unto a plate.
TO MAKE THE CREAMY TUSCAN 'MARRY ME' SAUCE:
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil until heated.
- Add in 1-2 Tbsps tuscan blend seasonings and salt and stir until well combined. Add in the tomato paste, stirring until combined.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and slowly add in the heavy cream, seafood or veggie stock, lemon juice, and white wine, stirring until combined. Let it slightly bubble for 1-2 minutes and then add in the grated parmesan, whisking until fully melted and sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add in the chopped kale and tomatoes, stirring until combined and return the shrimp. Let everything simmer for 5-6 minutes or until the sauce has thickened more and the shrimp are fully cooked through.
- Remove from heat once done.
- To serve, add the creamy grits to your favorite bowl(s) and top with Tuscan 'Marry Me' Shrimp. Garnish with a bit of grated parmesan (for extra cheesy flavor), if desired.
Tips & Tricks
- STORAGE: Any leftovers can be kept in a tightly sealed container and refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, it's best when done in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop. You'll need to add a bit of heavy cream or seafood stock to re-create the creaminess of the sauce when heating it up. Stir in the added liquid and it should become creamy again.
- GREENS: To add a bit more flavor to this dish, you can always feel free to add in your favorite greens such as spinach, broccolini, collards, or asparagus.
- TUSCAN SEASONING (STORAGE): Any leftover tuscan blend seasoning can be stored in a ziplock bag or jar for later use or used as garnish.
- DAIRY-FREE OPTION: To make this sauce dairy-free, simply use vegan butter instead of the regular butter. Then swap the cream with full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream. And use your favorite dairy-free shredded cheese or nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.
- VEGAN OPTION: To see meat alternatives for this dish, see Post!
- SPICES/HERBS: If desired, you can reduce the amounts slightly. Please know that this recipe is bold in spice/herb flavor, so feel free to adjust based on your tastebuds.
- HERB ROASTED TOMATOES: For extra flavor and taste, you can roast your tomatoes by following my HERB ROASTED TOMATOES.
- HOMEMADE TUSCAN BLEND: 1 tablespoon smoked paprika, 2 tsps dried parsley, 2 tsps dried basil, 2 tsps dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon dried rosemary, + 2 bay leaves.
Nutrition
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