Kentucky BBQ Shrimp and Grits on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

This Kentucky BBQ Shrimp and Grits recipe delivers juicy, bourbon-glazed shrimp grilled to perfection on the Arteflame grill. Paired with creamy grits, this dish highlights the magic of reverse searing and grilling on a flat steel cooktop for mouthwatering flavor. The bourbon-infused BBQ sauce caramelizes beautifully, complementing the richness of the buttery grits.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup bourbon BBQ sauce
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 2 cups water
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 tbsp butter
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil onto three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
3. Light the napkins and allow the fire to build. The grill will be ready for cooking in about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Grits

1. On the flat top cooktop near the outer edge, warm water and milk.
2. Slowly whisk in the grits and stir frequently.
3. Add salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
4. When thickened, stir in butter and cheddar cheese until creamy.

Step 3: Season and Grill the Shrimp

1. Toss shrimp with a tablespoon of vegetable oil and a pinch of salt.
2. Sear the shrimp for 1-2 minutes on the center grill grate at 1,000°F.
3. Move shrimp to the flat cooktop and glaze with bourbon BBQ sauce.
4. Cook another 2-3 minutes until caramelized and cooked through.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. Spoon the creamy grits onto a plate.
2. Top with caramelized BBQ shrimp.
3. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.

Tips

• Remove the shrimp from the grill when it's slightly undercooked, as it will continue cooking off the heat.
• Use high-quality bourbon BBQ sauce for a richer flavor.
• For creamier grits, add more butter and cheese at the end.

Variations

1. Spicy Cajun BBQ Shrimp: Add cayenne pepper and Creole seasoning to the shrimp before grilling.
2. Garlic Butter Shrimp and Grits: Swap BBQ sauce for a garlic butter sauce with fresh herbs.
3. Maple Bourbon BBQ Shrimp: Add a splash of maple syrup to the bourbon BBQ sauce for sweetness.
4. Pesto Shrimp and Grits: Replace BBQ sauce with a fresh basil pesto glaze.
5. Smoky Chipotle Shrimp: Blend chipotle peppers with BBQ sauce for a smoky kick.

Best Pairings

• Kentucky bourbon neat or in a classic Old Fashioned
• Grilled asparagus or charred corn on the cob
• Warm, buttery cornbread
• Southern-style coleslaw
• Sweet tea or lemonade

Conclusion

Kentucky BBQ Shrimp and Grits on the Arteflame grill is a flavorful, restaurant-quality dish made simple by grilling entirely on a flat top cooktop. The juicy shrimp, seared over high heat, balance perfectly with the creamy, cheesy grits, making this an unforgettable Southern-inspired meal.