Easy Shrimp and Grits Recipe

Name: Easy Shrimp and Grits Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups chicken stock – Adds rich flavor to the grits; 2 cups water – Helps thin out the stock for balance; 1 cup quick grits – Cooks fast and gives that classic Southern texture. Don’t use instant!; ¾ cup white cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 2 Tbsp. butter – For richness and creaminess; 1 tsp. coarse black pepper; ½ tsp. salt (optional) – Add based on your taste, especially if your broth is salty; 6 slices thick-cut bacon, diced; 1 cup yellow onion, diced; ½ roasted red bell pepper, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; ½ lb. jumbo shrimp (26-30 count), peeled and deveined; ½ tsp. salt; ½ tsp. black pepper; ½ tsp. onion powder; ½ tsp. smoked paprika; 2 Tbsp. olive oil; 1 stick (8 tablespoons) cold unsalted butter, cut into cube; Fresh lemon wedge; Fresh parsley, chopped