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Shrimp and Grits Recipe (Creamy, Southern-Style Comfort Food)
Isla Marie

Shrimp and Grits Recipe

A classic Southern comfort dish featuring creamy, buttery grits topped with juicy, seasoned shrimp. It offers a rich, savory flavor with a smooth and hearty texture. Perfect for brunch, dinner, or special occasions.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Brunch, Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Grits:
  • 1 cup stone-ground grits
  • 4 cups water or chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Shrimp:
  • 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Optional Add-ins:
  • 3 –4 slices bacon chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

Method
 

Step 1. Cook the Grits
  1. Bring water or broth to a boil in a saucepan. Slowly whisk in the grits to prevent lumps. Reduce heat to low and cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring frequently until thick and creamy.
Step 2. Finish the Grits
  1. Stir in butter, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy. Keep warm on low heat.
Step 3. Prepare the Shrimp
  1. Season shrimp with paprika, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Step 4. Cook Bacon (Optional)
  1. In a skillet, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving some fat in the pan.
Step 5. Cook the Shrimp
  1. In the same skillet, add butter or oil if needed. Sauté garlic until fragrant, then add shrimp. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Step 6. Add Flavor
  1. Stir in lemon juice and cooked bacon (if using). Toss gently to combine.
Step 7. Assemble
  1. Spoon warm grits into bowls and top with shrimp mixture.
Step 8. Garnish and Serve
  1. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Video

Notes

  • Whisk grits slowly into boiling liquid to avoid lumps.
  • Stir grits frequently for a smooth, creamy texture.
  • Do not overcook shrimp; they should be just pink and tender.
  • Use broth instead of water for more flavor in grits.
  • If grits thicken too much, add a little warm water or milk to loosen.