Savory Southern Shrimp and Grits Recipe: A Comfort Classic

Name: Savory Southern Shrimp and Grits
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup stone-ground corn grits; 4 cups water (or chicken broth for extra flavor); 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 2 tbsp butter; 4 slices bacon, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/4 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: April 30, 2025

by Amelia

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This savory Southern shrimp and grits recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners quick and enjoyable
The rich flavors blend harmoniously, creating a burst of southern charm on your plate
Its beautiful presentation with vibrant colors makes it visually stunning for any gathering
Perfect for brunch or dinner, it’s versatile enough to be customized with your favorite spices or add-ins!

I once served shrimp and grits at a family reunion, and let me tell you, my cousin Ted went back for thirds—he even tried to hide his plate behind the plant to sneak more bites!

Southern Shrimp and Grits Recipe

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Large Shrimp: Opt for fresh or thawed shrimp; their sweetness adds depth to the dish.
Corn Grits: Use stone-ground grits for the best texture; they create a creamy base. creamy white chocolate cheesecake.
Butter: A generous amount helps create that rich flavor profile; do not skimp!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully into the grits for added richness.
Bacon: Crispy bacon bits lend crunch and flavor; who can resist bacon?
Garlic: Fresh garlic infuses an aromatic punch that elevates the entire dish.
Spices (Cayenne Pepper & Paprika): These spices bring heat and depth; adjust according to your taste.
Cream: For extra creaminess in the grits; treat yourself!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Grits: Start by bringing four cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in one cup of corn grits while reducing heat to low. Stir occasionally until thickened—about 20 minutes.

Add Flavor: Once thickened, stir in half a cup of shredded cheddar cheese along with two tablespoons of butter. This will create an irresistible creamy texture—so good you might just want to eat it straight.

Sauté Your Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook four slices of chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon but keep the drippings for flavor! Add a pound of shrimp seasoned with cayenne pepper and paprika to the skillet. Sauté until shrimp turns pink—about 3-4 minutes.

Add Aromatics: Toss in two minced garlic cloves into the skillet with shrimp. Sauté until fragrant—don’t walk away; you don’t want burnt garlic!

Combine Everything: Reintroduce your crispy bacon into the skillet along with any remaining juices from cooking the shrimp. Mix well before layering it over your cheesy grits.

Serve Up Some Happiness: Spoon those luscious creamy grits onto plates first before piling on that savory shrimp mixture. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra pop of color!

Now grab a fork and dig in! There’s no judgment here if you go back for seconds—or thirds!

Cooking this savory Southern shrimp and grits recipe is not just about feeding hungry bellies; it’s about creating moments filled with laughter, delicious flavors, and cherished memories. So why not roll up those sleeves and get started? You won’t regret it! For more inspiration, check out this Easy Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe.

You Must Know

The Savory Southern Shrimp and Grits Recipe balances rich flavors perfectly
Use fresh ingredients for the best taste, and don’t skip on seasoning
A dash of hot sauce elevates your dish, making it unforgettable for family gatherings or cozy nights in

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the grits first, allowing them to thicken, while you prepare the shrimp. This method ensures everything is hot and ready when served, giving you a smooth dining experience.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your shrimp and grits with different cheeses or add veggies like spinach or tomatoes for added flavor. shrimp spinach stuffed pasta Experimenting can lead to delightful surprises that suit your palate.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of water to keep the grits creamy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve perfect grits, use a combination of chicken broth and milk for creaminess
Avoid overcooking shrimp; they should be just pink and tender
Fresh herbs can add vibrant flavor without overpowering the dish

Sharing this recipe brings back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, where laughter mingled with delicious aromas. Her secret ingredient was love, which always made every meal special.