Craving a dish that captures the essence of Southern comfort food? Look no further than this shrimp and grits recipe. It’s a delightful blend of creamy, cheesy grits topped with succulent shrimp, all smothered in a rich, flavorful sauce. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to transport your taste buds straight to the South.
Imagine tender shrimp sautéed in a garlic and butter sauce, served over a bed of luscious, cheesy grits that melt in your mouth. Each bite is a combination of savory and slightly spicy, making it an unforgettable culinary experience.
Whether you’re hosting a special brunch or want to treat yourself to a gourmet dinner at home, this shrimp and grits recipe is versatile and satisfying. It’s a classic dish that never goes out of style.
The Ultimate Shrimp and Grits Recipe

This shrimp and grits recipe features juicy shrimp cooked to perfection in a flavorful sauce, paired with creamy, cheesy grits that provide the perfect comforting base. It’s a dish that’s both hearty and indulgent, ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup grits (stone-ground preferable)
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Grits: In a large pot, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Slowly stir in the grits, reduce heat to low, and simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
- Add Cheese: Once the grits are cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and 2 tablespoons of butter. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Keep warm.
- Sauté the Shrimp: In a skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp, cayenne pepper, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Serve: Spoon the creamy grits onto plates, top with the sautéed shrimp, and garnish with chopped green onions. Enjoy warm!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g