Spicy Shrimp & Cheesy Grits | Food Town

Ingredients

• 5 cups water
• 1 1/2 cups corn grits, preferably stone-ground
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more as needed
• 4 ounces medium or sharp cheddar cheese (about 1 cup shredded)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 1 large green bell pepper
• 4 medium scallions
• 3 cloves garlic
• 4 ounces sliced bacon (4 to 6 slices)
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Creole or Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 pound raw peeled and deveined medium to large shrimp
• 3 dashes hot sauce, plus more for serving
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)