Name: Shrimp and Grits
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 1 cup stone-ground grits; 4 cups water or chicken broth; 1 cup milk; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 slices beef, chopped; 1 small onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish); Lemon wedges for serving

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Shrimp and Grits is a beloved Southern comfort dish that pairs tender, juicy shrimp with creamy, buttery grits. Enhanced with savory spices, onions, this dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines creamy grits with perfectly cooked shrimp in a flavorful sauce, creating a balance of textures and tastes that’s rich, satisfying, and full of Southern charm. It’s relatively quick to prepare and can be customized with your favorite spices, herbs, and toppings.

Shrimp and Grits

Ingredients

For the Grits:

1 cup (170 g) stone-ground grits
4 cups (960 ml) water or chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup (50 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)

For the Shrimp:

1 pound (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 small onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup (60 ml) chicken broth
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Optional: crumbled cooked beef or sliced green onions for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the grits:
In a medium saucepan, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Add salt and gradually whisk in the grits. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20–25 minutes until thick and creamy. Stir in butter and cheese (if using).
Prepare the shrimp:
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil or butter. Season shrimp with smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Make the sauce:
In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic and onion until fragrant and translucent. Add chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.
Combine shrimp and sauce:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Serve:
Spoon creamy grits onto plates and top with the shrimp and sauce mixture. Garnish with beef, green onions, or extra parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Spicy Shrimp and Grits: Add more cayenne, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to the shrimp.
Cheesy Grits: Stir in extra sharp cheddar or Parmesan for creamier, richer grits.
Southern Style: Add crumbled beef or andouille sausage to the shrimp for a deeper flavor.
Herb Variation: Mix in fresh thyme or tarragon with the sauce for extra aroma.
Low-Fat Version: Use water or low-sodium broth for grits and sauté shrimp in olive oil instead of butter.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat grits gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to restore creaminess. Reheat shrimp briefly in a skillet to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Can I use instant grits?

Yes, but cooking time will be shorter and texture slightly different—follow package instructions.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare grits ahead and reheat, but shrimp should be cooked fresh to maintain tenderness.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or seasoned tofu and use vegetable broth for the grits.

Can I use milk instead of water for grits?

Yes, milk can be used alone or combined with water/broth for creamier grits.

Can I freeze leftovers?

It’s not recommended to freeze shrimp and grits as the shrimp texture may become rubbery.

How do I make it spicier?

Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to the shrimp while cooking.

What type of grits should I use?

Stone-ground grits are preferred for a creamy texture, but quick-cooking grits can be used for convenience.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, bell peppers, tomatoes, or spinach can be added to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, grits are naturally gluten-free. Ensure any broth or seasonings used are also gluten-free.

Conclusion

Shrimp and Grits is a flavorful, comforting Southern classic that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. With creamy grits, succulent shrimp, and a savory sauce, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, and can be customized to suit your taste.

Chef MARTHA