Go Back
Shrimp & Grits is not just a dish; it's a celebration of Southern culinary tradition that has captivated food lovers for generations. This classic recipe marries the sweetness of succulent shrimp with the creamy, comforting texture of grits, creating a harmony of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible. The beauty of Shrimp & Grits lies in its versatility; it can be served as a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a sophisticated dinner, making it a staple in Southern homes and restaurants alike.

Classic Shrimp & Grits – A Southern Favorite!

Discover the essence of Southern cuisine with our Shrimp & Grits Delight recipe. This beloved dish combines succulent shrimp and creamy, stone-ground grits for a truly comforting experience. Learn about the rich history, ingredient selection, and step-by-step cooking instructions that will help you create this versatile meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you're a novice or an experienced cook, this guide will make your Shrimp & Grits shine at your dining table.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

For the Grits:

1 cup stone-ground grits

4 cups water (or a mixture of water and chicken broth for added flavor)

1 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated

½ cup heavy cream (optional for creaminess)

For the Shrimp:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

4 slices of bacon, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, diced

1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Hot sauce (optional, for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Grits:

    - In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water (or broth) to a boil and add 1 teaspoon of salt.

      - Gradually stir in the stone-ground grits. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grits are thick and creamy.

        - Once cooked, remove from heat and stir in the butter, cheddar cheese, and heavy cream until fully melted and combined. Keep warm.

          Cook the Shrimp:

            - In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.

              - Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes or until softened. Stir in the garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper; cook for another minute until fragrant.

                - Add the peeled shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until pink and opaque. Stir in the lemon juice and cooked bacon, combining everything evenly.

                  Assemble:

                    - To serve, place a generous scoop of grits on a plate or in a bowl. Top with the shrimp mixture and drizzle any remaining sauce from the skillet over the top.

                      - Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with hot sauce on the side for those who desire a little extra spice.

                        Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                          15 minutes | 40 minutes | Serves 4