Shrimp and Grits is a classic Southern dish that epitomizes comfort food at its finest. Originating in the Lowcountry coastal regions of South Carolina and Georgia, this dish has grown in popularity and is now enjoyed across the United States.

Shrimp and Grits combines the briny, slightly sweet flavor of shrimp with the creamy, savory goodness of grits, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

Traditionally served for breakfast, it has evolved into a versatile dish suitable for any meal of the day.

This recipe showcases the perfect balance of flavors and textures, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.

Ingredients

For this delicious Shrimp and Grits recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Grits:

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make Shrimp and Grits

Step 1: Preparing the Grits

Boil the Liquid: In a medium-sized pot, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. You can use either, but chicken broth will add more flavor to the grits.

Add Grits: Gradually whisk in the stone-ground grits to prevent lumps. Reduce the heat to low and let the grits cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes or until they are thick and creamy.

Incorporate Dairy: Stir in the heavy cream and butter, allowing them to melt and blend into the grits. This will make them extra creamy and rich.

Add Cheese: Mix in the grated cheddar cheese until it’s completely melted and well combined. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Keep the grits warm while you prepare the shrimp.

Step 2: Preparing the Shrimp

Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.

Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and the onion is translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Cook the Shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and smoked paprika. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp as they can become tough and rubbery.

Create the Sauce: Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and hot sauce (if using) to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Combine Ingredients: Stir the crispy bacon back into the skillet and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Mix everything together so the shrimp and vegetables are evenly coated in the flavorful sauce.

Step 3: Serving the Dish

Plate the Grits: Spoon a generous portion of the creamy, cheesy grits onto each plate or shallow bowl.

Top with Shrimp: Arrange the shrimp and vegetable mixture on top of the grits, ensuring each serving gets a bit of everything.

Garnish and Serve: Garnish with additional chopped parsley and serve immediately. Shrimp and Grits is best enjoyed hot, right off the stove.

Chef’s Notes

Grits: Stone-ground grits have a coarser texture and more flavor compared to instant grits. They take longer to cook but the end result is worth it.

Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is ideal, but if you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a great depth of flavor to the grits, but you can experiment with other cheeses like Gouda or Parmesan for a different taste.

Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky, salty flavor that complements the shrimp perfectly. If you prefer, you can use pancetta or even andouille sausage.

Hot Sauce: The hot sauce is optional but recommended for an extra kick. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.

Grits Consistency: If the grits become too thick, you can thin them out with a bit more cream or broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Nutrition Value

The nutritional values for Shrimp and Grits can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on a 4-serving recipe):

Calories: 500-600 kcal

• Protein: 30-35g
• Fat: 30-35g
• Saturated Fat: 15-18g
• Carbohydrates: 35-40g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugars: 2-4g
• Cholesterol: 250-300mg
• Sodium: 800-1000mg
• Vitamin A: 20-25% DV
• Vitamin C: 20-25% DV
• Calcium: 20-25% DV
• Iron: 15-20% DV

Conclusion

Shrimp and Grits is a hearty and flavorful dish that showcases the best of Southern cuisine. The combination of creamy, cheesy grits with tender, succulent shrimp and crispy bacon is truly irresistible. This recipe is perfect for a cozy brunch, a comforting dinner, or any occasion where you want to enjoy a taste of the South.

With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can bring the rich traditions of Southern cooking to your kitchen. Enjoy the delightful textures and harmonious flavors of Shrimp and Grits, and savor the comfort it brings. Happy cooking!

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