Southern White Cheddar Shrimp 🍤
ingredients.📝
**Here's what you'll need (Ingredients):**
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or frozen and thawed)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
* 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
* 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
* 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (check ingredients for no pork if that's a concern!)
* 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* Pinch of salt (to taste)
* 1.5 cups shredded white cheddar cheese (sharp is best for flavor!)
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
**Let's make some magic (Instructions):**📍
**Get the shrimp ready:** If you're using frozen shrimp, make sure they're completely thawed. Pat them dry with a paper towel – this helps them sear nicely!
2. **Sauté the aromatics:** Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it's soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. **Make the creamy sauce:** Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic. Stir and cook for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, making sure to smooth out any lumps.
4. **Season it up:** Stir in the Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until it has thickened nicely.
5. **Melt the cheese:** Reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded white cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir gently until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and add a pinch of salt if needed.
6. **Add the shrimp:** Add the dried shrimp to the cheesy sauce. Stir to coat the shrimp evenly.
7. **Cook the shrimp:** Cook for just 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Don't overcook them, or they can become tough!
8. **Serve it up!** Spoon the delicious Southern White Cheddar Shrimp over rice, pasta, or even with some crusty bread for dipping. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like!
This dish is so comforting and truly a delight to share. I hope you give it a try and love every cheesy, savory bite! Let me know in the comments if you make it! ❤️ .
I’ve always loved dishes that bring together bold flavors with a creamy texture, and this Southern White Cheddar Shrimp absolutely delivers on both. One tip I learned from experience is to make sure the shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking; this really helps them get that perfect sear and prevents them from steaming in the pan. When preparing the sauce, gradually whisking in the milk little by little is key to avoiding lumps and achieving that silky texture. Using sharp white cheddar cheese makes all the difference, lending a deep, tangy richness that pairs beautifully with the spices. I like using Old Bay seasoning here because it brings a classic seafood flair, but if you're sensitive to certain ingredients like pork, double-check the seasoning blend. The smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky note that complements the shrimp perfectly without overpowering the dish. For serving, I personally enjoy spooning the creamy shrimp over a bed of fluffy white rice but have also found it delicious tossed with your favorite pasta. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a nice touch of color and freshness that balances the richness. This recipe is great for a quick weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve guests. Plus, its simple ingredient list means you can often make it with pantry staples and frozen shrimp, which is a huge bonus on busy days. The combination of garlic, buttery onions, and sharp cheddar creates a soul-warming meal that's sure to satisfy cravings for Southern comfort food with a twist.
Yum! 🥰