There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of Southern Shrimp and Grits. The first time I tasted this dish, it was like being wrapped in a warm blanket on a chilly evening. The mingling aromas of crispy bacon and succulent shrimp wafting through the kitchen instantly made my mouth water. Perfect for sharing with loved ones, this dish combines the creaminess of stone-ground grits with the flavorful punch of spices and rich cheese, creating a meal that feels both indulgent and heartwarming.

After a hectic day, I found myself yearning for a dish that would not only satisfy my cravings but also provide a soothing moment of culinary bliss. Southern Shrimp and Grits became my go-to recipe, transforming a simple weeknight into an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone who just wants to avoid takeout, this quick and delicious meal brings Southern hospitality right to your table, leaving everyone asking for seconds—and the recipe! Join me as I take you through the steps of creating this delightful classic that is sure to impress.

Why Choose Southern Shrimp Grits Tonight?

Deliciously addictive: This dish combines creamy, cheesy grits with succulent shrimp for a comforting meal that will have everyone raving.
Quick and easy: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a fantastic dinner in no time.
Flavor explosion: The blend of spices, bacon, and lemon juice elevates every bite, ensuring a well-rounded flavor profile.
Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste—add more heat or throw in some veggies for extra nutrition!
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this dish marries Southern elegance with heartfelt comfort food, guaranteeing your guests will go home satisfied.
Transform your weeknight dinners with these scrumptious Southern Shrimp and Grits—it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again!

Southern Shrimp Grits Ingredients

To create this comforting dish, gather these simple yet delightful ingredients.

For the Shrimp
• 1 lb fresh large shrimp, deveined – Opt for wild-caught shrimp for superior flavor.

For the Grits
• 1 cup stone-ground grits – Stone-ground grits lend a delightful rustic texture and rich taste.
• 4 cups water or broth – Using broth adds an extra layer of flavor to the grits.
• ½ cup heavy cream – This enriches the grits, making them decadently creamy.
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter – For silkiness and depth in flavor.
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese – Choose a high-quality cheese for a deliciously cheesy finish.

For the Flavor
• 4 slices bacon, chopped – The crispy bacon adds a savory crunch and smoky richness.
• 2 green onions, chopped – Fresh green onions provide a mild tang and bright color.
• Juice of ½ lemon – The acidity from lemon juice balances the richness of the dish.
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper – Adjust this to suit your heat preference for that perfect kick.
• 1 tsp paprika – Adds warmth and a subtle smoky flavor to the mix.

With these ingredients, your Southern Shrimp Grits will be a heartwarming dish that brings everyone to the table!

How to Make Southern Shrimp Grits

Cook the bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it turns crispy and golden brown. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet, leaving the drippings behind for added flavor.
Sauté the shrimp: In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add the fresh shrimp. Cook them until they are pink and opaque, approximately 3-4 minutes. Once done, remove the shrimp and set them aside to keep them tender.
Prepare the grits: In a pot, bring the water or broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in the stone-ground grits, reducing the heat afterward. Cook them according to the package instructions until they are creamy and thick, usually about 15-20 minutes.
Incorporate cream and cheese: Stir in the heavy cream, unsalted butter, and shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the cooked grits. Mix well until everything is smoothly incorporated and creamy.
Combine flavors: Gently fold in the cooked shrimp, crispy bacon, chopped green onions, lemon juice, cayenne pepper, and paprika into the grits. Mix until combined, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Serve hot: Scoop generous portions of the creamy shrimp and grits onto plates and enjoy immediately, savoring each heartwarming bite.

Optional: Garnish with additional green onions for a fresh touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Southern Shrimp Grits

Fridge: Store leftover Southern Shrimp Grits in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth for creaminess.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating: When reheating, add a little cream or broth to revive the original consistency, and warm over low heat until heated through.

Freshness Tip: For best results, freeze before incorporating shrimp and bacon, adding them in when reheating for a fresher taste.

What to Serve with Southern Shrimp Grits?

There’s nothing like a comforting bowl of creamy grits topped with succulent shrimp to warm your heart and satisfy your appetite.

Garlicky Green Beans: The bright crunch of sautéed green beans with garlic adds freshness and a vibrant color to your plate.
Collard Greens: These savory, tender greens offer a hearty complement, soaking up the flavors of the shrimp and enhancing the Southern charm.
Cornbread: A warm slice of cornbread provides a slightly sweet, crumbly texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy dish, perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce.
Crispy Fried Catfish: The flaky, crispy texture of fried catfish meshes wonderfully with shrimp, creating a Southern feast that anyone would enjoy.
Homemade Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw balances the richness of the grits, adding a refreshing bite with each forkful.
Peach Iced Tea: Sip on this sweet, chilled drink as it complements the savory flavors while providing a refreshing break between bites.
Chocolate Pecan Pie: Finish off your meal with a slice of this indulgent Southern dessert; its rich, nutty flavor pairs delightfully after the savory shrimp and grits.
Grilled Asparagus: The charred, smoky flavor of grilled asparagus provides a lovely rustic elegance, while the asparagus’ tender yet crisp bite keeps the meal interesting.
Lemonade: This zesty drink cuts through the richness of the dish, brightening your palate and enhancing the overall dining experience.

Expert Tips for Southern Shrimp Grits

Choose Quality Shrimp: Opt for wild-caught shrimp for the best flavor. Farmed shrimp can lack the same sweetness and texture.
Perfect Grits: Use stone-ground grits and slow-cook them for a creamy consistency. Avoid instant grits to ensure a rich texture.
Bacon Drippings: Don’t skip saving the bacon drippings. They add wonderful flavor to your shrimp and grits, enhancing the dish’s deliciousness.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust the cayenne pepper and paprika to suit your preference, keeping the flavor balanced without overwhelming heat.
Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Cook the shrimp just until pink to avoid a rubbery texture. They’ll continue to cook slightly after being mixed into the grits.
Serve Immediately: Southern Shrimp Grits are best served hot and fresh. Letting them sit can change the texture and flavor, so dig in right away!

Make Ahead Options

You can easily prepare components of these Southern Shrimp Grits ahead of time, making it a perfect meal prep choice for busy weeknights! The grits can be cooked and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the grits on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore their creamy texture. You can also cook the bacon and shrimp ahead—cool them completely before refrigerating for up to 24 hours. Combine everything just before serving to enjoy the dish fresh, ensuring the flavors are vibrant and the shrimp remain tender. This way, you’ll have diner-worthy results with minimal last-minute effort!

Southern Shrimp Grits Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists on Southern Shrimp Grits to make this dish your own!

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra layer of heat that will awaken your taste buds. This makes each bite a flavorful adventure!
Veggie Delight: Toss in sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or tomatoes for a nutritious boost. These colorful additions not only taste wonderful but also brighten up the plate.
Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream and cheese with coconut milk and nutritional yeast for a plant-based twist without sacrificing flavor. You’ll savor the creaminess without the dairy!
Herbacious: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the grits for a fresh, vibrant flavor. This gives your dish a lovely aroma that elevates it to gourmet status!
Smoky Flavor: Switch out regular bacon for smoked sausage or turkey bacon to infuse a different smoky profile in your dish. It creates a unique spin that’s simply unforgettable!
Broth Variations: Use seafood stock or vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the grits to boost the umami factor. You’ll enhance the depth of flavors with every spoonful.
Nutty Twist: Mix in a couple of tablespoons of toasted pecans or walnuts for added crunch and heartiness. This unexpected texture will surprise and delight every diner.
Cheese Swap: Try different cheeses like pepper jack for a zesty kick, or crumbled feta for a Mediterranean flair. The possibilities are endless, and so delicious!

Southern Shrimp Grits Recipe FAQs

How do I choose fresh shrimp?
Absolutely! When selecting fresh shrimp, look for a mild, briny smell and a moist appearance. The shells should be firm and free from black spots or a dull texture, which can indicate age. Ideally, opt for wild-caught shrimp for a superior flavor experience.

How do I store leftover Southern Shrimp Grits?
After enjoying your delicious meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently in a saucepan, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the dish’s original creaminess.

Can I freeze Southern Shrimp Grits?
Very! You can freeze portions of Southern Shrimp Grits for up to 3 months. For best results, I recommend freezing the grits without the shrimp and bacon. Simply transfer the cooled grits into airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat, mixing in freshly cooked shrimp and bacon for optimal taste.

What should I do if my grits are too thick?
Don’t worry! If you find your grits become too thick, simply stir in a little additional water, broth, or cream over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. This not only helps restore the texture but can also enrich the flavor.

Are there any dietary considerations for Southern Shrimp Grits?
Certainly! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, always check for allergies. Shellfish allergies can be a concern with shrimp. For a gluten-free option, ensure all your ingredients, such as the broth and cheese, are certified gluten-free. If making it dairy-free, consider alternative cheeses and cream substitutes!

How can I adjust the spiciness of my Southern Shrimp Grits?
The more the merrier! If you prefer a milder flavor, start with less cayenne pepper, maybe try just ½ teaspoon. You can always add a touch more as you taste! For those who enjoy heat, consider adding a sprinkle of hot sauce or additional paprika while cooking to elevate the kick in every spoonful.