Garlic Butter Shrimp and Grits with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Let's Cook

1. 1Prepare the ingredients

   5 min

   Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture — this helps ensure they sear beautifully. Halve the cherry tomatoes and set them aside. Mince the garlic finely, and chop the parsley. Measure out the grits and chicken broth for easy access later. Organizing your ingredients will streamline the cooking process, making it less stressful and more enjoyable!

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   Thawed frozen shrimp keep weeping, so drain them in a colander and blot again right before they hit the pan — moisture that creeps back will steam instead of sear. Reserve a little parsley stem-free for finishing.

2. 2Preheat the oven

   5 min

   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is perfect for roasting the cherry tomatoes, allowing them to caramelize and develop a sweet, rich flavor. While the oven is heating, you can prep the tomatoes as you gather the rest of your ingredients. Getting the oven ready now means you'll have perfectly roasted tomatoes that complement your shrimp and grits later.

3. 3Roast the tomatoes

   25 min

   On a rimmed baking sheet, toss the halved cherry tomatoes with 1 tablespoon of butter and a pinch of salt. Spread them out in an even layer to ensure they roast evenly. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized. This step enhances their natural sweetness and adds a beautiful color to your dish.

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   For extra flavor, add a drizzle of olive oil before roasting.

4. 4Cook the grits

   10 min

   In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of chicken broth to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, stir in the grits and 1 teaspoon of salt. Reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The broth adds depth of flavor, making the grits a deliciously creamy base for your shrimp.

5. 5Sauté the shrimp

   10 min

   In a large (12-inch) skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant—be careful not to let it brown! Next, add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Cooking the shrimp quickly at medium heat keeps them tender and juicy.

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   If the garlic starts to brown, reduce the heat immediately to avoid bitterness.

6. 6Plate and serve

   5 min

   To serve, spoon a generous portion of the creamy grits onto each plate. Top with the sautéed shrimp and spoon some of the roasted cherry tomatoes over the top. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for freshness and color. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp and Grits with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes—it's not just a meal, but a comforting feast!