Shrimp and Grits is a classic Southern dish that offers the perfect combination of comfort and flavor. Originating from the Lowcountry of the American South, this meal has grown from humble roots as a simple breakfast for fishermen into a beloved staple of Southern cuisine. The creamy, cheesy grits serve as a rich and comforting base, while the Cajun-spiced shrimp and crispy bacon add bold, savory depth. Aromatic vegetables, garlic, and a splash of broth round out the dish with a slightly smoky, tangy finish that brings everything together beautifully.
What makes Shrimp and Grits so irresistible is the balance of textures and flavors. The creaminess of the grits is complemented by the juicy, seasoned shrimp and the crunchy bite of bacon. Add in the sweet bell pepper, zesty lemon, and just the right kick from Cajun spices, and you’ve got a dish that feels indulgent yet deeply satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for a weekend brunch or a cozy dinner, Shrimp and Grits is guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
• Comfort in a Bowl: Rich, creamy grits and spicy shrimp make this dish soul-warming and satisfying.
• Bold Southern Flavors: Cajun spices, bacon, and cheddar cheese create a depth of flavor that’s irresistible.
• Perfect for Any Meal: Ideal for brunch, lunch, or dinner—Shrimp and Grits is always a welcome dish at the table.
Ingredients:
Cheesy Grits
• 1 cup quick-cooking grits
• 4 cups water
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Shrimp
• 6 slices smoked bacon
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• ⅛ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Grits
• Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add ¼ teaspoon of salt.
• Slowly stir in the grits, then reduce heat to low.
• Cover and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until smooth and creamy.
• Remove from heat and stir in the butter, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Set aside and keep warm.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until crispy.
• Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, coarsely chop and set aside.
• Reserve the bacon grease in the skillet for cooking the shrimp.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
• Add the shrimp to the skillet with the reserved bacon grease over medium heat.
• Sprinkle with Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper.
• Sauté the shrimp for about 1 minute on each side, just until pink and opaque. Do not overcook.
• Transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
• Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same skillet over medium heat.
• Add the chopped red bell pepper and cook for 2–3 minutes, until just tender.
• Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the green onions and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute, stirring often to avoid burning the garlic.
Step 5: Make the Sauce and Combine
• Pour in the chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Stir to combine and let simmer for 1–2 minutes.
• Return the cooked shrimp and chopped bacon to the skillet. Stir everything together and heat through for 1 minute, allowing the flavors to blend.
Step 6: Serve
• Spoon a generous serving of cheesy grits into each bowl.
• Top with the shrimp, bacon, and vegetable mixture.
• Serve immediately, garnished with extra green onions if desired.
Tips:
• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp (thawed properly) will provide the best texture and flavor.
• Spice It Your Way: Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat. For a milder version, omit it entirely.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly—overcooking makes them rubbery.
• Choose the Right Grits: Quick-cooking grits save time, but stone-ground grits can be used for an even richer texture—just adjust the cooking time.
Storage Options:
• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in separate airtight containers for grits and shrimp. They will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Reheat: Grits may thicken in the fridge. Reheat them on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the consistency. Shrimp should be gently reheated in a skillet over low heat.
• Freezing Not Recommended: Due to the texture of the grits and shrimp, freezing isn’t ideal. The grits may become grainy, and the shrimp can turn rubbery after thawing.
Shrimp and Grits is a dish that delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. With creamy, cheesy grits and bold Cajun shrimp topped with crisp bacon and sautéed vegetables, this Southern favorite is hearty, vibrant, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for brunch or dinner, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
