Shrimp and Creamy Aged Cheddar Grits

Instructions

Aged Cheddar Grits:

1. Bring water and salt to a boil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Slowly whisk in grits, whisking constantly until thoroughly blended and smooth. Reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 18-20 minutes or until the mixture thickens and grits are tender, stirring frequently.
2. Remove from the heat. Gradually stir in cheddar and butter until melted. Keep warm.

Garlic Cream Sauce:

1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Add garlic; cook and stir for 1 minute. Whisk in flour until light brown. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and cream. Bring to a boil; cook and whisk for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
2. Reduce heat to low. Gradually whisk in cheddar until melted. Remove from the heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm.

Shrimp:

1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, garlic, lemon juice and paprika; cook and stir for 4-5 minutes or until shrimp turn pink. Transfer shrimp mixture to a bowl. Keep warm.
2. Add spinach and green onions to the same pan; cook and stir until spinach is wilted.
3. Serve grits with the spinach mixture, cream sauce and shrimp. Sprinkle with bacon. Garnish with microgreens.