Shrimp and Grits Recipe - Southern Comfort Made Easy

Shrimp and grits is a timeless Southern classic, combining creamy, cheesy grits with flavorful shrimp coated in a rich, savory sauce. Originating in the South, this dish has evolved from being a humble fisherman’s breakfast to a beloved comfort food enjoyed nationwide.

If you’re a foodie or home cook, this recipe captures the heart of Southern cuisine and is sure to bring warmth and flavor to your table. Follow this guide to make the best shrimp and grits at home, and learn tips to customize it to your taste.

Why You'll Love This Shrimp and Grits Recipe

Whether you’re new to Southern cooking or a seasoned chef, this dish is a must-try. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Versatile: Easily adaptable with different ingredients like bacon or sausage.
• Quick: Prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch.
• Comforting: Combines creamy, cheesy grits with richly spiced shrimp for the ultimate cozy meal.

Now, grab your apron, and let's get cooking!

What Are Shrimp and Grits?

Shrimp and grits is a traditional Southern dish where tender shrimp are cooked in a flavorful sauce, often made with spices, garlic, butter, and broth, then served over soft corn grits. Grits, made from ground corn, are a staple in Southern cooking and act as the perfect complement to the shrimp’s bold flavors.

While the roots of this dish began as a simple breakfast, it’s been reimagined over the years to include ingredients like cheese, heavy cream, andouille sausage, and even Cajun spices for added depth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create the best shrimp and grits at home.

For the Grits:

• 1 cup stone-ground grits (for authentic flavor)
• 4 cups water (or chicken broth for more flavor)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional, for a spicy kick)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Grits

1. Bring water (or chicken broth) to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the salt.
2. Gradually whisk in the grits, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 20–25 minutes or until thick and creamy.
4. Stir in the butter and shredded cheddar cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Keep warm.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon pieces and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
2. Add the onion to the skillet and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook for 30 seconds, releasing the spices’ aroma.
4. Toss in the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
5. Pour the chicken broth and lemon juice into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits on the bottom. Simmer the sauce for 3–4 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.

Step 3: Bring It All Together

1. Add the cooked shrimp and crispy bacon back to the skillet. Stir to coat them in the sauce and heat through.
2. Spoon the cheesy grits into bowls and top with the shrimp mixture.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.

Voila! Your shrimp and grits are ready to serve.

Customizing Your Shrimp and Grits Recipe

1. Make it Creamier

Swap in half-and-half or heavy cream for some of the water when making your grits to make them extra indulgent.

2. Add Heat

Kick things up a notch with hot sauce or extra Cajun seasoning in the shrimp sauce.

3. Protein Variety

Don’t have bacon? Swap it for andouille sausage or turkey bacon for a different flavor profile.

4. Vegetarian Option

Replace the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms and roasted vegetables for a hearty vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for the grits and sauce.

Pro Tips for the Best Shrimp and Grits

• Use Fresh Shrimp

Fresh, high-quality shrimp will take this dish to the next level. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them properly before cooking.

• Opt for Stone-Ground Grits

Stone-ground grits have a more robust, natural corn flavor than instant grits. They’re worth the extra cooking time!

• Balance the Flavors

The acidity of the lemon juice is key to balancing the dish’s richness. Don’t skip it!

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp

Shrimp cooks quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. Pull them off the heat as soon as they turn pink.

Pairing Suggestions

Shrimp and gritsares fantastic on their own, but you can elevate the meal with these side dishes and beverages:

• Sides: Cornbread, collard greens, or a crisp garden salad.
• Beverages: Sweet tea, a light Pinot Grigio, or a craft beer.

Share and Enjoy

Cooking shrimp and grits isn’t just about creating a meal; it’s about connecting with Southern culinary traditions and indulging in its comforting flavors. Whether you’re making this for a weekday dinner, brunch with friends, or a special occasion, it’s sure to become a beloved recipe in your household.

Love this reci.e? Share your creation and tag us on social media with #MyShrimpAndGrits. We’d love to see how yours turns out!