Shrimp and Grits Recipe (with Video)

Shrimp and Grits Recipe: Shrimp and grits is a classic Southern dish that’s become a staple on tables across the U.S., blending creamy, buttery grits with seasoned shrimp for a rich and flavorful experience.

This beloved comfort food has roots in the South Carolina Lowcountry, where it started as a humble breakfast meal for fishermen. Over time, shrimp and grits evolved into a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, with endless variations and flavors that suit a range of tastes.

In this guide, we’ll walk through each step of creating a delicious, homemade version of shrimp and grits, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy meal at home.

Ingredients for Shrimp and Grits

To make a perfect batch of shrimp and grits, it’s essential to gather high-quality ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

Grits Base:

• 1 cup of stone-ground grits
• 4 cups of water or chicken broth
• 1 cup of heavy cream (for extra creaminess)
• 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Shrimp Topping:

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 4 strips of bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper (optional for added flavor)
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning or smoked paprika
• Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
• Lemon wedges (optional)

Optional Add-Ons:

• Hot sauce, for added spice
• Chopped tomatoes for added texture
• Worcestershire sauce for depth

Choosing the Right Grits

Choosing the right grits is an essential first step. Grits come in several forms, including:

• Instant Grits: Quick and convenient but lack the full flavor of traditional grits.
• Quick-Cooking Grits: A middle ground, cooking in 5-10 minutes.
• Stone-Ground Grits: The traditional, coarse version with a richer, nutty taste but requires longer cooking (around 30-40 minutes).

For this recipe, stone-ground grits are recommended because they have a deep, earthy flavor and creamy texture. While they do require a bit more time, the results are worth the wait!

Preparing the Grits Base

To achieve the perfect consistency in your grits, follow these steps closely:

1. Bring the Liquid to a Boil: In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water or chicken broth to a gentle boil. Season with a pinch of salt to infuse flavor.
2. Add the Grits Slowly: Gradually stir in 1 cup of grits, reducing the heat to low immediately after.
3. Simmer and Stir: Stir frequently as the grits cook to prevent clumping or sticking. For stone-ground grits, let them cook for about 30-40 minutes, stirring every few minutes to keep them creamy and prevent sticking.
4. Incorporate Cream and Butter: Once the grits have softened, add 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir well to combine.
5. Add Cheese (Optional): If you like your grits extra creamy, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted. This will give a rich, savory taste.
6. Season to Taste: Finally, add salt and pepper to taste. Your grits should be smooth, creamy, and well-seasoned.

Adding Flavor to Your Grits

Making your grits flavorful is key to a satisfying shrimp and grits dish. Here are a few options to elevate the flavor:

• Cheesy Grits: Adding cheddar or gouda brings a deliciously sharp, creamy taste.
• Creamy Grits: Extra heavy cream or even half-and-half will make your grits luxurious and silky.
• Butter for Richness: A generous helping of butter at the end of cooking enhances the texture and adds a mellow flavor that pairs beautifully with shrimp.

Feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors or keep it simple with just salt and pepper.

Seasoning and Preparing the Shrimp

Now that the grits are ready, let’s move on to the shrimp:

1. Season the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a bowl and toss with Cajun seasoning or smoked paprika, adding salt and pepper to taste. This seasoning will give the shrimp a smoky, savory profile that contrasts well with the creamy grits.
2. Prepare the Bacon: Chop 4 strips of bacon into small pieces. Bacon adds a crispy, salty element to the dish.
3. Prep the Vegetables: Dice a small onion, and if you’re adding a bell pepper, dice that too. Mince two cloves of garlic for a fragrant, savory flavor.

Prepping all ingredients beforehand ensures a smooth cooking process without delays.

Cooking the Shrimp

To cook the shrimp properly:

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper (if using), cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, around 1 minute.
3. Cook the Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Sear the shrimp for about 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Making a Savory Sauce

To tie the dish together with a savory sauce:

1. Deglaze the Pan: Add 1/2 cup of chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits left from the bacon and shrimp. This adds depth and a concentrated flavor.
2. Reduce and Season: Let the broth reduce for a couple of minutes, adding a dash of hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Adjust seasoning as needed with salt and pepper.
3. Combine Shrimp and Bacon: Return the shrimp and bacon to the skillet, tossing everything together until coated in the sauce.

Combining Shrimp and Grits

For a perfect presentation:

1. Spoon Grits onto Plates: Serve a generous scoop of grits onto each plate or bowl.
2. Top with Shrimp and Sauce: Add a portion of shrimp on top of the grits, drizzling the sauce from the skillet over everything.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or chopped green onions, and add a dash of hot sauce if you prefer some extra spice.

Adding Toppings and Garnishes

Some additional garnishes can enhance the flavor and visual appeal:

• Green Onions: For a fresh, mild onion flavor.
• Chopped Parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Crispy Bacon Bits: Sprinkle any leftover bacon for extra crunch.
• Hot Sauce or Lemon Zest: For added tang and spice.

Serving Suggestions

Shrimp and grits is often served as a standalone dish, but you can pair it with:

• Green Salad: A light salad complements the richness.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for mopping up extra sauce.
• Refreshing Beverages: Sweet tea or a crisp white wine work beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls for a perfect dish:

• Overcooking Shrimp: They cook quickly, so watch closely.
• Undercooking Grits: Take the time needed to achieve creamy consistency.
• Oversalting: Balance seasoning in the grits, shrimp, and sauce carefully.

FAQs about Shrimp and Grits Recipe

1. What is Shrimp and Grits?

Shrimp and Grits is a classic Southern dish that combines tender shrimp with creamy, buttery grits. Often served as a comforting breakfast or dinner, the dish typically includes flavorful spices, garlic, and sometimes a hint of smoky bacon for added depth.

2. What type of shrimp is best for Shrimp and Grits?

Fresh or frozen large shrimp, peeled and deveined, works best for this recipe. Choose shrimp with the tail removed to make eating easier and ensure they’re fresh or quickly thawed from frozen.

3. Can I use instant grits instead of regular grits?

Yes, you can use instant grits for convenience. However, for a creamier texture and richer flavor, traditional stone-ground grits are ideal, as they offer a heartier texture that pairs beautifully with the shrimp.

4. How do I add extra flavor to Shrimp and Grits?

Adding ingredients like garlic, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper enhances the flavors. Some recipes include chicken broth in the grits for added depth, while others may add bacon, green onions, or a splash of lemon juice for a touch of acidity.

5. What sides go well with Shrimp and Grits?

Shrimp and Grits is often enjoyed as a stand-alone dish, but it pairs well with cornbread, collard greens, or a simple side salad for a complete Southern-style meal.

6. Can I make Shrimp and Grits ahead of time?

While you can prepare the grits ahead of time, it’s best to cook the shrimp right before serving to keep them tender and fresh.

Conclusion

Shrimp and grits is a dish full of Southern charm and soul. With creamy, cheesy grits as a base, the savory, seasoned shrimp topping creates a balanced and satisfying meal. By following this guide, you can create a comforting and elegant meal that brings the flavors of the South straight to your table.