This classic Southern dish features juicy shrimp sautéed with spicy and flavorful seasonings, all served over creamy, comforting grits. It’s a warm hug in a bowl!
I love how easy it is to whip this up for dinner. Plus, who can resist shrimp and grits? It’s like a party in your mouth! Don’t forget to add some hot sauce for an extra kick!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Grits: Stone-ground grits create the best texture and flavor. If unavailable, quick or instant grits can work, but avoid pre-cooked options, as they won’t provide the same authentic taste.
Bacon: For a smokey flavor, I love using bacon, but you can swap it out for turkey bacon or omit it for a lighter dish—just add a dash of liquid smoke to retain the flavor.
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal, but if you’re on a budget, smaller shrimp or even cooked frozen shrimp can be used. Just ensure they are thawed and peeled before cooking.
Cheese: While sharp cheddar is classic, feel free to try Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different taste. Just adjust the quantity to match your preference.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes bring brightness, but canned diced tomatoes save time. Always drain them to prevent excess liquid in your dish. I often use fire-roasted canned tomatoes for extra flavor.
How Do You Make Creamy Grits Without Clumps?
Making creamy grits can be tricky if not done correctly. To avoid clumps and ensure smoothness, start by whisking the grits in gradually. This method helps prevent any clumping that can ruin the texture.
- Bring water (or broth) to a boil.
- Add salt, then slowly whisk in the grits while stirring consistently.
- Reduce heat and cover; stirring occasionally helps achieve a creamy consistency.
Also, if you prefer a velvety finish, don’t skip the butter and cream at the end! They add richness and depth to the grits.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Shrimp Without Overcooking?
Getting the shrimp cooked just right is key to enjoying this dish. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so timing is critical. Here’s how to nail it:
- Cook them in a hot skillet for a short time, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Look for the shrimp to turn pink and opaque throughout without any translucent parts.
- Remove them from heat as soon as they’re cooked; they’ll continue cooking slightly from residual heat.
For extra flavor, adding lemon juice right before finishing can brighten up the dish beautifully!
How to Make Authentic Southern Shrimp and Grits
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grits:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water (or low-sodium chicken broth for richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium tomato, diced (or 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes, drained)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or bacon fat
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Juice of half a lemon (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 35-40 minutes to prepare. Plan for about 10 minutes for prepping ingredients, followed by 20-25 minutes to cook the grits and shrimp. It’s an easy, rewarding dish that promises deep Southern flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grits:
In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Stir in the salt and then slowly whisk in the grits to prevent any clumping. After that, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally until the grits are thickened and tender.
2. Finish the Grits:
Once your grits are cooked, take them off the heat and stir in the butter, shredded cheddar cheese, and heavy cream (if using). Mix until everything is melted and creamy. Keep the grits warm while you prepare the shrimp.
3. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s nice and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Make sure to leave the bacon fat in the skillet for flavor!
4. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it gets soft. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. Your kitchen should smell delightful by now!
5. Cook the Tomatoes and Seasonings:
Next, stir in your diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, plus salt and pepper. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors and soften those juicy tomatoes.
6. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Watch carefully not to overcook them! If you’d like, you can squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the shrimp for extra flavor.
7. Combine and Garnish:
Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and stir everything together until it’s well-mixed. Yum!
8. Serve:
Now it’s time to plate up! Spoon the creamy grits onto plates or shallow bowls. Top with the shrimp and bacon mixture, and don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
9. Enjoy:
Serve this delicious dish immediately while it’s hot. For those who like a kick, add hot sauce or a sprinkle of extra cayenne—and enjoy a taste of Southern comfort!
This recipe beautifully captures the essence of Southern dining, with creamy, cheesy grits paired perfectly with flavorful shrimp cooked in bacon fat. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Can I Use Instant Grits Instead of Stone-Ground Grits?
While you can use instant grits in a pinch, stone-ground grits provide the best texture and flavor that is traditional for this dish. If using instant grits, follow the package instructions for cooking times, as they will be significantly shorter.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like more heat, you can increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the shrimp mixture. You could also include diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce right before serving to amp up the spice level!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version of shrimp and grits, you can skip the shrimp and bacon. Replace them with sautéed mushrooms for a hearty texture. Use vegetable broth instead of water for the grits, and consider adding additional vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You may need to reheat the grits with a splash of water or broth to restore their creaminess. The shrimp mixture can be reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
