Salmon and Sausage Grits
A simple, hearty grits bowl
Introduction
This Salmon and Sausage Grits recipe mixes creamy grits with savory sausage and flaky salmon. It cooks fast and fills you up. 🍽️🐟🌭🌽
Why make this recipe?
- It’s quick and comforting. ⏱️
- You get protein from both salmon and sausage. 🐟🌭
- It’s flexible — use what you have. 🔄
How to prepare Salmon and Sausage Grits
Ingredients:
- 🌽 1 cup grits
- 💧 4 cups water or 🐔 chicken broth
- 🧀 1 cup cheddar cheese (optional)
- 🐟 1 lb salmon fillet
- 🌭 1 lb sausage (your choice)
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
- 🧈 2 tablespoons butter
- 🌿 Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
- Prep the salmon and sausage: Pat the salmon dry and season with salt and pepper. Slice the sausage into rounds or crumble it. 🔪🐟🌭
- Cook the sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, add the sausage. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside. 🍳🌭
- Cook the salmon: In the same skillet, add a bit of butter or oil. Cook the salmon 3–4 minutes per side until flaky and opaque. Break into large pieces. 🍳🐟🧈
- Boil the liquid: In a pot, bring the 4 cups water or chicken broth to a boil. 💧🔥🐔
- Add grits: Slowly whisk in 1 cup grits. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring often, until thick and tender (about 20–25 minutes for regular grits; quick grits cook faster). Stir to prevent lumps. 🌽🥄
- Finish the grits: Stir in 2 tablespoons butter and 1 cup cheddar cheese if using. Taste and add salt and pepper. 🧀🧂🧈
- Combine and serve: Spoon grits into bowls. Top with sausage and salmon pieces. Garnish with chopped green onions. 🌿🍽️
How to serve Salmon and Sausage Grits
Serve hot in bowls. Add a fried egg on top for extra richness. Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. 🥗🍳
How to store Salmon and Sausage Grits
- Refrigerator: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. ❄️
- Reheat: Add a splash of water or broth and warm gently on the stove, stirring to restore creaminess. 🔁🥄
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked grits, but texture may change. Thaw in fridge and reheat slowly with liquid. 🧊
Tips for preparing Salmon and Sausage Grits
- Use chicken broth for extra flavor instead of water. 🐔
- Stir often while cooking grits to avoid sticking. 🥄
- If salmon cooks faster than grits, keep it warm in the oven at low heat. 🔥
- Choose smoked or spicy sausage for a bold taste. 🌶️
Variations (if applicable)
- Cajun style: Add Cajun seasoning to the sausage and a pinch to the grits. 🔥
- Cheesy jalapeño: Mix chopped jalapeños and extra cheddar into grits. 🧀🌶️
- Shrimp swap: Replace salmon with shrimp for another seafood option. 🍤
FAQs
Q: Can I use quick grits instead of regular grits?
A: Yes. Quick grits cook faster (follow package times). Watch them closely. ⏱️
Q: Can I skip the cheese?
A: Yes. Cheese adds creaminess, but butter and broth keep the grits tasty. 🧈
Q: How do I know when salmon is done?
A: Salmon flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque throughout. Do not overcook. 🐟
Q: Is this recipe spicy?
A: Not by default. Use spicy sausage or add cayenne if you want heat. 🌶️
Q: Can I meal prep this?
A: You can cook components ahead. Store grits and proteins separately for best texture. 🥘
Conclusion
For inspiration on spicy or grilled salmon versions, see this recipe for Cajun Grilled Salmon with Cheesy Jalapeno Grits. If you want a salmon patty twist with grits, check Cajun Salmon Patties and Cheese Grits. For more breakfast and brunch menu ideas that pair well with grits bowls, visit Traditional Breakfast & Brunch Menu.