The Best Homemade Shrimp and Grits Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This shrimp and grits recipe brings comfort and flavor together in one delicious dish. Perfect for any meal, it’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

• Rich and creamy grits that are smooth and full of flavor.
• Juicy, flavorful shrimp seasoned just right for that perfect bite.
• A satisfying combo that feels fancy but is simple enough for weeknight dinners.

Recipe

This classic Southern dish combines creamy, cheesy grits with succulent shrimp in a flavorful sauce, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

*For the grits:*

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce the heat to low. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 20-25 minutes, until thickened.
2. Stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and butter. Season with salt and black pepper. Keep warm.
3. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
4. Add the onion and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside.
6. Pour the chicken broth, lemon juice, and hot sauce into the skillet. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits. Return the shrimp and bacon to the skillet, stirring to coat. Cook for 2 minutes.
7. Serve the shrimp mixture over the prepared grits. Garnish with parsley.

Notes:

For a spicier kick, increase the amount of hot sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Equipment:

Medium saucepan, large skillet, whisk

Time:

Prep time: 15 minutes, Cooking time: 30 minutes

Cuisine:

Southern

Serving:

4 servings

Nutrition

Shrimp and grits is a classic Southern dish that’s both hearty and flavorful. Here’s the nutritional breakdown for a serving of this delicious recipe.

What To Serve With It

I love serving my shrimp and grits with simple sides that don’t steal the spotlight, like a crisp green salad or buttery cornbread. A chilled glass of sweet tea or a light white wine pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy dish. Trust me, these combos make the meal feel complete without any extra fuss.

Side Dishes

When you’re diving into a hearty plate of shrimp and grits, it’s always nice to have a few side dishes that complement the bold flavors. I love serving it with a simple green salad, tossed with lemon vinaigrette, to add a fresh crunch. Garlicky sautéed greens, like collards or spinach, are another favorite of mine—they balance the richness perfectly. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll roast some veggies, like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, with olive oil and a pinch of salt. Cornbread is a classic choice, too, and its sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory shrimp and creamy grits.

Beverage Pairings

A great meal isn’t complete without the right drink to go with it. When I’m serving shrimp and grits, I love pairing it with something invigorating, like a crisp white wine. A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the dish’s rich, savory flavors without overpowering them. If you’re not into wine, a cold beer, like a light lager or pilsner, works just as well—it’s a classic Southern combo. For a non-alcoholic option, I go with iced sweet tea or lemonade; their sweetness balances the spiciness of the shrimp. Whatever you choose, make sure it feels as comforting as the meal itself.