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Dynamite Air-Fried Shrimp & Grits is a delightful twist on a classic Southern dish that brings together the rich flavors of shrimp and creamy grits. Originating from the coastal regions of the South, this dish has evolved over the years, gaining popularity for its hearty yet comforting nature. The combination of tender shrimp and smooth, cheesy grits makes for a dish that is both satisfying and indulgent.

Dynamite Air Fried Shrimp & Grits

An explosion of flavors with crispy air fried shrimp served over creamy, cheesy grits.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine Southern
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 0.45 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup cornmeal
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp cayenne pepper
  • None to taste salt and pepper
  • None as needed cooking spray
  • 1 cup stone-ground grits
  • 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • None to taste salt and pepper
  • None for garnish chopped green onions
  • 0.5 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp Sriracha
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp honey
  • None pinch salt

Instructions
 

  • In a mixing bowl, soak the peeled and deveined shrimp in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
  • In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
  • Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk and let any excess drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture until fully coated.
  • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spray the basket with cooking spray. Place the coated shrimp in the basket in a single layer and lightly spray the shrimp with cooking spray. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Remove and keep warm.
  • In a medium saucepan, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits. Reduce heat to low and stir occasionally for about 20 minutes or until creamy. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then keep warm.
  • In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Sriracha, lemon juice, honey, and a pinch of salt.
  • To serve, spoon a generous portion of cheesy grits onto a plate. Top with the crispy air-fried shrimp and drizzle with dynamite sauce. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
  • Dig in and enjoy the explosion of flavors!

Notes

Adjust the cayenne pepper and Sriracha according to spice preference.
Keyword air fryer, dynamite sauce, grits, shrimp