Shrimp and Grits is the ultimate Southern comfort food. Silky, cheesy grits topped with perfectly seasoned, garlicky shrimp in a rich, savory sauce — this dish originated in the Lowcountry of South Carolina and has become a beloved classic across the entire South.
This recipe delivers restaurant-quality results at home. Creamy stone-ground grits, juicy shrimp, smoky bacon, and just the right amount of heat make this the best Shrimp and Grits you’ll ever make.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 35 minutes Total Time: 50 minutes Servings: 4
Why This Recipe Works
- Stone-ground grits give the best creamy texture and authentic flavor
- Shrimp cooked in bacon fat + butter = incredible richness
- Balanced seasoning with Cajun spices and fresh lemon
- Ready in under an hour but tastes like it took all day
Ingredients
For the Creamy Grits:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits (not instant)
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Grits In a large saucepan, bring milk, chicken broth, salt, and pepper to a gentle boil over medium heat. Slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once thick and creamy, stir in butter, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan until fully melted and smooth. Cover and keep warm.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon While grits are cooking, cook chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp Add butter to the skillet with the bacon grease. Add diced onion and bell pepper (if using) and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Season shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
Step 4: Make the Sauce Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir the cooked bacon back into the skillet.
Step 5: Serve Spoon generous portions of creamy grits into bowls. Top with the shrimp mixture, sauce, green onions, and parsley. Serve immediately while hot.
Pro Tips for the Best Shrimp and Grits
- Use stone-ground grits — instant grits won’t give the same creamy texture.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp — they become tough quickly.
- Freshly grated cheese melts better and gives smoother grits.
- For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream to the grits at the end.
- Make it spicier with extra cayenne or hot sauce at the table.
What to Serve with Southern Shrimp and Grits
- Southern Buttermilk Biscuits
- Fresh green salad with vinaigrette
- Collard greens or sautéed spinach
- Ice-cold sweet tea or a crisp white wine
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store grits and shrimp separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Warm grits on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen them. Reheat shrimp gently in a skillet to avoid overcooking.
- Not recommended for freezing due to texture changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant grits? You can in a pinch, but the texture and flavor won’t be as authentic or creamy. Reduce cooking time significantly.
Is this recipe spicy? It has a gentle kick. You can reduce or remove cayenne for a milder version.
Can I make it ahead? Cook the grits and bacon ahead. Prepare the shrimp just before serving for best results.
This Authentic Southern Shrimp and Grits recipe brings the taste of Charleston and Savannah straight to your kitchen. Rich, comforting, and packed with flavor — it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
