Description
Authentic Southern Shrimp and Grits is a classic comfort food dish featuring creamy, buttery grits topped with juicy, seasoned shrimp cooked in a savory garlic sauce. This easy shrimp and grits recipe delivers rich flavor, smooth texture, and a perfect balance of Southern tradition and indulgence.
Ingredients
- Raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- Stone-ground grits
- Water or chicken broth
- Milk or cream
- Butter
- Cheddar cheese (optional)
- Garlic (minced)
- Onion (finely chopped)
- Bell pepper (optional)
- Lemon juice
- Paprika
- Cayenne pepper
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Green onions (sliced)
- Parsley (optional)
Instructions
- In a saucepan, bring water or broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in grits.
- Reduce heat and cook, stirring frequently, until thick and creamy.
- Stir in butter, milk or cream, and cheese (if using). Season with salt and pepper and keep warm.
- In a skillet, sauté chopped onion and bell pepper until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
- Add shrimp and season with paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook until pink and opaque (about 2–3 minutes per side).
- Stir in lemon juice.
- Spoon grits into bowls and top with shrimp mixture.
- Garnish with green onions and parsley before serving.
Notes
Use stone-ground grits for the best texture and flavor.Add extra liquid to keep grits smooth and creamy.Do not overcook shrimp—they cook quickly.Cheese is optional but adds richness.
