Name: Shrimp and Grits Recipe: Creamy and Savory
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: Grits:; 1 cup stone-ground grits; 4 cups water or chicken broth; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional); Shrimp:; 1 lb large shrimp (peeled, deveined); 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 slices of bacon (chopped); 1 small onion (chopped); 1 green bell pepper (diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning (optional); 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup chicken broth; Salt and black pepper to taste; Optional: Green onions (parsley); Suggested Pairings: Hot sauce (sweet tea)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Shrimp and Grits is a classic, comforting Southern dish, perfect for brunch, dinner, or special gatherings. This hearty meal delivers bold, soul-warming flavors in every bite, featuring creamy, cheesy grits topped with tender shrimp in a rich, savory sauce. Presented in a white ceramic bowl, garnished with chopped green onions or parsley, this Shrimp and Grits offers a vibrant, inviting aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a traditional version, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing dish that brings Southern charm and robust taste to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Grits:

1 cup stone-ground grits (or quick grits)
4 cups water or chicken broth
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

For the Shrimp:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
4 slices of bacon, chopped (or 2 tbsp bacon fat)
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning (optional, for spice)
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1/2 cup chicken broth
Salt and black pepper to taste

Serving:

Optional: Chopped green onions, parsley
Suggested Accompaniments: Hot sauce, crusty bread
Suggested Pairings: Sweet tea, white wine
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic bowl
Suggested Equipment: Medium saucepan, large skillet, wooden spoon, whisk, measuring cups/spoons

Step-by-Step Process

Cook Grits: Bring water or broth and salt to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in grits to prevent lumps. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 20–25 minutes for stone-ground grits (or 5–7 minutes for quick grits), stirring occasionally. Stir in cheese, butter, and cream (if using) until smooth. Keep warm.
Cook Bacon and Vegetables: Heat a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove bacon, leaving fat in skillet (or use olive oil). Add onion and bell pepper; sauté 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic, smoked paprika, and Cajun seasoning (if using); cook 1 minute until fragrant.
Make Sauce: Stir in tomatoes and chicken broth. Simmer 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, black pepper, or an additional pinch of Cajun seasoning for a balanced flavor.
Cook Shrimp: Add shrimp to the sauce. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque (internal temperature of 145°F). Stir in reserved bacon.
Serve: Spoon grits into white ceramic bowls, top with shrimp and sauce. Garnish with green onions or parsley. Serve hot with hot sauce, crusty bread, sweet tea, or white wine.

Tips for Better Shrimp and Grits

Use stone-ground grits for authentic texture; quick grits work for faster prep.
Taste the sauce before adding shrimp to balance savory and spicy flavors, as tomatoes vary.
Pat shrimp dry before cooking to prevent excess liquid in the sauce.
Cook shrimp just until pink to avoid a rubbery texture.
Use a white ceramic bowl for a comforting presentation, highlighting the creamy grits and vibrant sauce.
Make ahead: Prepare grits and sauce separately up to 1 day in advance; reheat grits with extra broth or cream, cook shrimp fresh.
Stir grits frequently to prevent sticking and ensure creaminess.
Enhance aesthetic: Present in a white ceramic bowl with bright green onions or parsley for a vibrant, inviting look.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Shrimp and Grits: Naturally gluten-free; ensure broth and Cajun seasoning are gluten-free certified.
Vegan Shrimp and Grits: Replace shrimp with king oyster mushrooms, bacon with smoked tempeh, and use vegan cheese and butter.
Spicy Shrimp and Grits: Increase Cajun seasoning to 1 tsp or add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper.
Cheesy Shrimp and Grits: Add 1/2 cup grated Parmesan to the grits with the cheddar.
Low-Carb Shrimp and Grits: Replace grits with cauliflower rice; cook with broth and cheese for a similar flavor.
Andouille Shrimp and Grits: Swap bacon for 1/2 cup diced andouille sausage.
Herbed Shrimp and Grits: Add 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme or parsley to the sauce.
Low-Sodium Shrimp and Grits: Use low-sodium broth and reduce salt to 1/4 tsp.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store leftover grits and shrimp separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat grits with 1–2 tbsp broth or cream, shrimp in a skillet over low heat.
Freeze sauce (without shrimp) for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight, reheat, and add fresh shrimp.
Serve hot for the best flavor; avoid keeping at room temperature for over 2 hours due to the shrimp and dairy.
Use leftover grits as a base for fried grit cakes; chill, slice, and pan-fry.
Pair with hot sauce or bread to complement the rich, savory flavor.
Presented in a white ceramic bowl with vibrant garnishes for a comforting, inviting charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 4 servings (1 cup grits + 4–5 shrimp each):

Calories: 450 kcal
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 200mg
Sodium: 900mg
Total Carbohydrates: 35g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 28g
Vitamin A: 25% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 30% Daily Value
Calcium: 20% Daily Value
Iron: 15% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by brand. High in sodium and fat; try the low-sodium version. Pair with greens for balance.

Conclusion

This Shrimp and Grits recipe offers a creamy, savory dish, perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a Southern classic. Its straightforward preparation and vibrant presentation make it a favorite. The cheesy grits and flavorful shrimp delight every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its comforting, versatile appeal.