What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade shrimp and grits recipe is a cozy, Southern classic that’s packed with flavor and easy to whip up. It’s perfect for a comforting breakfast or a hearty dinner that feels like a hug in a bowl. You’ll love how creamy the grits turn out, with just the right amount of cheesy richness. The shrimp are juicy and perfectly seasoned, adding a flavorful punch to every bite. Plus, the whole dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy days.
Recipe
Shrimp and grits is a classic Southern dish that combines creamy, buttery grits with succulent shrimp in a flavorful sauce. This homemade version brings together simple ingredients to create a comforting and delicious meal that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits, salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 20–25 minutes or until thickened. Stir in butter and cheddar cheese until melted. Keep warm.
- In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
- In the same skillet, add onion and bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using), and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Stir in lemon juice and cooked bacon.
- Serve shrimp mixture over warm grits and garnish with chopped green onions.
Notes:
- For extra creaminess, substitute half-and-half or milk for some of the water when cooking the grits.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the spice level.
Equipment:
- Medium saucepan
- Large skillet
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: Southern
Serving: 4
Nutrition
Shrimp and grits is a classic Southern dish that combines creamy grits with savory shrimp. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 850mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my shrimp and grits with simple sides like collard greens or a fresh green salad, which balance the richness of the dish perfectly. A crisp white wine or a tangy iced tea makes for a revitalizing beverage choice, complementing the flavors without overpowering them. Don’t forget some crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that creamy grits sauce!
Side Dish Options
When you’re serving up homemade shrimp and grits, you’ll want sides that complement its rich, creamy flavors without stealing the spotlight. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while roasted asparagus adds a crisp, earthy balance. Buttery cornbread is a classic pairing, soaking up every delicious bite. For something heartier, try collard greens simmered with smoked turkey—they bring depth without overpowering. And if you love texture, pickled okra or quick-pickled onions add a bright, crunchy contrast. Each side enhances the dish, making every bite of shrimp and grits even more satisfying.
Beverage Pairings
Though shrimp and grits already feels like a party on a plate, the right drink can take it to the next level. I love pairing it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc—its zesty acidity cuts through the creamy grits perfectly. If wine isn’t your thing, try a light beer or a citrusy IPA; they balance the richness without overpowering the shrimp’s flavors. For a non-alcoholic option, I go for sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or iced sweet tea. Trust me, the right sip makes every bite taste even better. Cheers to the perfect pairing!
