Authentic Southern Shrimp and Grits Recipe

Southern Shrimp and Grits Recipe

Southern cuisine is rich in flavor, tradition, and heart and few dishes capture that soulful essence quite like a Southern Shrimp and Grits Recipe. Originally rooted in the Lowcountry of South Carolina and Georgia, this dish has evolved from a humble fisherman's breakfast into a celebrated comfort food enjoyed across the United States.

At its core, this dish features creamy, buttery grits topped with plump, seasoned shrimp and often enriched with smoky bacon, sautéed peppers, garlic, onions, and a rich pan sauce. Whether served for brunch, lunch, or dinner, shrimp and grits is a celebration of bold Southern flavors, tradition, and hospitality. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to make the perfect shrimp and grits Southern style step by step.

Get ready for a bowl full of warmth, soul, and Southern charm!

🍳 Recipe Preparation Equipment

To prepare this Southern shrimp and grits recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand will make cooking easier and ensure the perfect texture for both shrimp and grits.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need:

🧂 What You Need to Prepare Southern Shrimp and Grits

Here’s everything you’ll need to make an authentic Southern shrimp and grits recipe at home.

For the Grits:

For the Shrimp:

🍤 How to Make Southern Shrimp and Grits – Step-by-Step

Follow these steps to create the ultimate bowl of creamy, cheesy grits topped with perfectly seasoned shrimp. Let’s get cookin’!

Southern Shrimp and Grits Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Grits

In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a gentle boil. Slowly whisk in the grits, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once thick and creamy, stir in butter, shredded cheese, salt, and pepper. Add a splash of heavy cream for extra richness if desired.

Step 2: Prepare and Season the Shrimp

While the grits are cooking, rinse and pat the shrimp dry. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), Old Bay or Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Set aside to let the flavors soak in.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan for flavor.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Squeeze lemon juice over the shrimp and stir in the crispy bacon. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top.

🔄 Variations

There’s no one “right” way to make shrimp and grits—Southern cooking celebrates creativity and resourcefulness. Here are some delicious twists to try:

With every version, the heart of the dish remains the same: rich, creamy grits paired with something savory, spicy, or smoky on top.

🍽️ Cooking Notes

When making Southern shrimp and grits, timing and ingredients matter. Use stone-ground grits for authentic texture and flavor—they take longer to cook but the payoff is worth it. Avoid instant or quick-cooking grits if possible, as they can become pasty.

The shrimp should be fresh or well-thawed if frozen. Overcooking shrimp is one of the most common mistakes—cook just until opaque and slightly curled. As for the bacon, let it get golden and crispy before removing it, and leave enough rendered fat to flavor the veggies and shrimp.

You can make the grits ahead of time and reheat them gently with a splash of water or milk. If you're cooking for a crowd, double the ingredients and keep the shrimp warm in the oven while preparing multiple servings.

🥄 Serving Suggestions

Southern shrimp and grits is a hearty dish that stands well on its own, but here are some ideas for rounding out your meal:

No matter how you plate it, this dish brings a warm Southern welcome to any table.

💡 Helpful Tips

🌟 Tips for the Best Shrimp and Grits Recipe

⏱️ Timing Overview

🧾 Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Estimated)

❓ FAQs

Q: Can I use quick grits instead of stone-ground grits?
A: You can, but the flavor and texture won’t be as rich. Stone-ground grits are highly recommended for authenticity.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat shrimp and grits?
A: Reheat grits with a splash of water or milk on the stove. Shrimp should be reheated gently to avoid overcooking—use a skillet over low heat.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes! Both shrimp and grits are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check seasoning blends to ensure no hidden gluten.

Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: You can make the grits ahead and reheat, but it’s best to cook the shrimp fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Q: What proteins can I substitute for shrimp?
A: Try scallops, catfish, or chicken sausage if shrimp isn’t your thing.

🏁 Conclusion

There’s something special about a warm bowl of Southern shrimp and grits—it’s soulful, comforting, and deeply satisfying. From the creamy cheddar grits to the juicy, seasoned shrimp topped with smoky bacon and vibrant veggies, this dish is packed with flavor and history. Whether you’re cooking for brunch guests or craving comfort food for dinner, this Southern classic delivers every time.

With the tips and detailed steps in this guide, you’re ready to master a dish that’s been a beloved staple in Southern kitchens for generations. Grab your skillet and let the magic begin!