Creamy Shrimp and Grits Recipe: A Southern Comfort Classic

Estimated reading time: 9 minutes

Shrimp and Grits isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary experience, a hug in a bowl, and a beloved tradition of Southern comfort food. This classic dish, known for its rich, creamy grits topped with succulent-shrimp simmered in a savory, aromatic sauce, has graced tables for generations. Whether you’re new to Southern cooking or looking to perfect your favorite recipe, this comprehensive guide will walk you through creating an unforgettable, deeply flavorful Shrimp and Grits recipe that will transport your taste buds-straight to the heart of the Lowcountry.

We’re going to dive deep into perfecting every element, from achieving the ideal creamy consistency for your grits to crafting a vibrant, complex sauce that complements the delicate sweetness of the shrimp. Get ready to master this iconic dish and impress everyone at your table!

What is Shrimp and Grits Recipe? A Culinary Journey

At its core, Shrimp and Grits is a deceptively simple dish built on two humble ingredients: corn grits and fresh shrimp. Yet, its history is as rich and layered as its flavor profile. Originating as a staple breakfast for fishermen in the coastal Lowcountry regions of South Carolina and Georgia, it has evolved into a celebrated entrée served in fine dining restaurants and cozy home kitchens alike.

This dish shows what Southern cooking is all about—being clever, filling, and full of heart. It proves that simple ingredients, when cooked with love and flavor, can turn into something really special. While there are different versions found in the South, the main idea is always the same: a warm and tasty mix that not only fills your stomach but also satisfies your desire for good, real food.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Shrimp and Grits Recipe

This easy Shrimp and Grits recipe is designed to deliver maximum flavor with straightforward steps, making it accessible for home-cooks of all skill levels. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

• Unbelievably Creamy Grits: Our method ensures your grits are velvety smooth, never lumpy, and perfectly seasoned.
• Flavor-Packed Shrimp Sauce: Without using traditional-meat additives, we build a rich, umami-rich sauce from aromatic vegetables and thoughtful seasoning.
• Quick Cooking Time: The shrimp cooks in mere minutes, making this a fantastic option for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the flavors and ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Authentic Taste: Capture the essence of Southern comfort food with genuine flavors and textures.
• Impressive Presentation: It looks as good-as it tastes, perfect for entertaining or a cozy family dinner.

Essential Ingredients for the Best Shrimp and Grits

Crafting the best Shrimp and Grits begins with selecting quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Creamy Grits:

• 1 cup stone-ground grits (see “Expert Tips” for why these are preferred)
• 4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar-cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra-creaminess)
• Salt and freshly ground black-pepper to taste

For the Savory Shrimp and Sauce:

• 1.5 pounds large-shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on or off
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for depth and a hint of smoky flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 cup vegetable broth or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and freshly ground black-pepper to taste

How to Make Shrimp and Grits: A Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed steps to create a truly memorable Shrimp and Grits dish.

1: Prepare the Creamy Grits

The grits are the foundation, so getting them right is crucial.

1. Combine Liquids: In a medium-saucepan, combine the vegetable or chicken broth and water. Bring the mixture to a boil-over medium-high heat.
2. Add Grits Slowly: Once boiling, slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits. Reduce the heat immediately to low, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
3. Simmer and Stir: Cover the saucepan and simmer on low heat for 30-45 minutes, stirring every 5-7 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. If the grits become too-thick, add a splash more hot broth or water.
4. Finish Grits: When the grits are tender and creamy, remove them from the heat. Stir in the butter, cheddar cheese, and heavy cream (if using) until melted and fully incorporated. Season generously with salt and pepper. Cover to keep warm while you prepare the shrimp.

2: Prepare the Shrimp and Aromatics

This step focuses on building the rich flavor base for your shrimp sauce.

1. Season Shrimp: Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large-skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over-medium heat. Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 08-10 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and translucent.
3. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, smoked-paprika, garlic-powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another 01-02 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

3: Cook the Shrimp and Create the Sauce

The final steps bring all the flavors together for a truly delectable sauce.

1. Deglaze with Broth: Pour in the 1 cup of vegetable or chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned-bits from the bottom of the-pan this adds incredible depth of flavor.
2. Add Cream: Stir in the heavy-cream and lemon juice. Continue to simmer for 02-03 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Cook Shrimp: Add the seasoned-shrimp to the simmering sauce. Cook for only 2-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn-pink and opaque. Be careful not to-overcook them, as they can become rubbery.
4. Serve: Ladle a generous portion of the creamy grits into shallow bowls. Spoon the shrimp and plenty of the flavorful sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

Expert Tips for Perfect Shrimp and Grits

Achieving restaurant-quality Shrimp and Grits at home is easier than you think with these expert tips:

• Choose the Right Grits: For the most authentic and creamy texture, opt for stone-ground grits. They take longer to cook but yield a superior, more substantial consistency compared to quick-cooking or instant grits, which tend to be finer and mushier. If you can’t find stone-ground, regular quick-cooking grits are an acceptable alternative, but adjust cooking time as per package directions.
• Whisk Constantly (at first!): When adding grits to boiling liquid, whisk continuously for the first minute or two to prevent lumps from forming. Once well combined, you can reduce whisking but still stir frequently during simmering.
• Patience with Grits: Don’t rush the grits. Low and slow cooking allows them to properly absorb the liquid and become-tender and creamy.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly, usually in just 2-4 minutes. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp will be rubbery and tough.
• Build Flavor Layers: Our recipe emphasizes building flavor from the ground up:
  • Aromatics: Cook the onions, bell pepper, and celery until truly softened and fragrant.
  • Spices: Toasting the smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder for a minute with the aromatics helps release their full flavor.
  • Deglazing: Scraping up the browned-bits from the pan after adding broth is critical for a rich, savory sauce.
• Quality Ingredients: Fresh, large shrimp make a significant difference. Use good quality broth and cheese for the best results.
• Season as You Go: Taste and adjust seasoning at every major step—season the shrimp, the grits, and the sauce. This ensures well-balanced flavors throughout the dish.
• Serve Immediately: Shrimp and Grits are best enjoyed fresh off the stove. The grits will thicken as they cool, and the shrimp can dry out.

Delicious Variations & Customizations

This Southern Shrimp and Grits recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

• Cheesy Grits Variations: Instead of or in addition to cheddar, try Gruyère, Parmesan, smoked gouda, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for the grits.
• Add More Vegetables: Sauté mushrooms, spinach, corn, or diced tomatoes along with the bell peppers and onions for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spice It Up: If you love heat, increase the cayenne-pepper or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce. A pinch of red-pepper flakes can also provide a nice kick.
• Herb Power: Experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme or oregano, adding them in the last few minutes of cooking the sauce.
• Smoky Flavor (without meat): A very small amount of liquid-smoke (just a few drops) can add a deep, smoky undertone to the sauce if you’re looking for that specific profile without meat. Use sparingly!
• Lemon Zest: A little lemon-zest added to the sauce at the very end can brighten all the flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Embrace the Flavor of Southern Tradition

This Shrimp and Grits recipe is more than just instructions; it’s an invitation to experience the warmth and richness of Southern culinary heritage. By following these detailed steps and incorporating our expert tips, you’re not just making a meal – you’re crafting a comforting masterpiece that embodies deep flavor and cherished tradition. Get ready to savor every bite of this truly special dish, proving that classic comfort food never goes out of style.

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Shrimp and Grits Recipe

Bitty

A beloved Southern comfort food classic featuring succulent shrimp in a savory, aromatic sauce served over rich, creamy stone-ground grits. This comprehensive guide ensures a deeply flavorful and authentic dish.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

• Medium saucepan (for grits)
• Large skillet or Dutch oven (for shrimp and sauce)
• Whisk
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Chopping board
• Sharp knife

Ingredients

  

Section 1: For the Creamy Grits

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups vegetable broth OR chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup heavy cream optional, for extra creaminess
• to taste Salt
• to taste freshly ground black pepper

Section 2: For the Savory Shrimp and Sauce

• 1.5 pounds large shrimp peeled and deveined, tails on or off
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large onion chopped
• 1 large red bell pepper chopped
• 1 celery stalk chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to your spice preference
• 1 cup vegetable broth OR chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
• to taste Salt
• to taste freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

 

Instruction Group 1: Prepare the Creamy Grits

• Combine Liquids: In a medium saucepan, combine the vegetable or chicken broth and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
• Add Grits Slowly: Once boiling, slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits. Reduce the heat immediately to low, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
  
• Simmer and Stir: Cover the saucepan and simmer on low heat for 30-45 minutes, stirring every 5-7 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. If the grits become too thick, add a splash more hot broth or water.
• Finish Grits: When the grits are tender and creamy, remove them from the heat. Stir in the butter, cheddar cheese, and heavy cream (if using) until melted and fully incorporated. Season generously with salt and pepper. Cover to keep warm while you prepare the shrimp.

Instruction Group 2: Prepare the Shrimp and Aromatics

• Season Shrimp: Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  
• Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and translucent.
• Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Instruction Group 3: Cook the Shrimp and Create the Sauce

• Deglaze with Broth: Pour in the 1 cup of vegetable or chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan – this adds incredible depth of flavor.
• Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice. Continue to simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  
• Cook Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the simmering sauce. Cook for only 2-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.
• Serve: Ladle a generous portion of the creamy grits into shallow bowls. Spoon the shrimp and plenty of the flavorful sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

Notes

Grits Choice: For the most authentic and creamy grits, use stone-ground grits. They take longer to cook but offer a superior texture compared to quick-cooking or instant varieties.
Shrimp Doneness: Do not overcook the shrimp! They cook very quickly (2-4 minutes) and can become rubbery if left on the heat for too long.
Leftovers: Leftover grits can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk until creamy again. Reheat shrimp and sauce gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Seasoning: Remember to taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process, from the grits to the shrimp sauce, for the best-balanced flavor.

Keyword Creamy Grits, Shrimp and Grits, Southern Recipe