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shrimp and grits recipe

shrimp and grits recipe

Shrimp and grits is a classic Southern dish that combines creamy, buttery grits with sautéed shrimp seasoned with spices. This comforting dish is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and brings together bold flavors in a satisfying way.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Southern
Servings 4 People
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Medium pot
  • 1 Large skillet
  • 1 Wooden spoon
  • 1 Serving dishes
  • 1 Measuring cups and spoons
  • 1 Whisk

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup stone-ground grits Stone-ground grits give the best texture and taste; avoid instant grits for this recipe.
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning Adjust amount to taste for spiciness.
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional, adjust to taste for spiciness.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 green onions, chopped for garnish

Instructions
 

  • In a medium pot, bring the water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits. Reduce the heat to low and cover. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grits are thick and creamy.
  • Stir in the milk, butter, and shredded cheddar cheese into the cooked grits until well combined. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Keep warm while preparing the shrimp.
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add the shrimp to the skillet, cooking for 2-3 minutes on one side until they begin to change color. Sprinkle the smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt over the shrimp.
  • Flip the shrimp and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until fully cooked and pink. Drizzle with lemon juice and remove from heat.
  • To serve, spoon the creamy grits into serving dishes and top with the sautéed shrimp. Garnish with chopped green onions.

Notes

For added flavor, you can incorporate cooked bacon or sausage with the shrimp.
Adjust the spiciness by modifying the amount of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes.
Stone-ground grits give the best texture and taste; avoid instant grits for this recipe.