Creamy, cheesy grits are topped with shrimp sautéed in butter with onion and seasoned with herbs de provence, spicy Cajun seasoning and sprinkled with crisp, crumbled bacon.

Carolina Shrimp and Grits

Grits:
4 cups water
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup grits
1/2 cup butter
2 cups (8 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
3 large eggs
3/4 cup half-and-half

Shrimp:
1/4 cup diced onion
2 tablespoons butter - divided use
21 to 26 fresh shrimp, peeled and de-veined
1 1/2 teaspoons herbs de provence
1 1/2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
2 slices bacon or strips of ham, diced and cooked crisp
Minced fresh parsley
Lemon wedges

1. For Grits: Combine water and salt in saucepan. Bring to a boil. Gradually add grits and cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in butter, cheddar cheese and garlic powder.
2. Beat eggs and half-and-half together. Add to grits.
3. Pour mixture into greased 2 quart casserole.
4. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
5. For Shrimp: Sauté onion in 1 tablespoon butter in saucepan until softened. Add shrimp, herbs de provence, Cajun seasoning and remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Cook, stirring constantly, until gray sauce forms.
6. Pour over grits and garnish with crumbled bacon or ham, parsley and lemon.

Serves 4.