There’s something truly special about Shrimp and Grits—it’s warm, creamy, and packed with bold flavors. This Southern favorite combines cheesy, buttery grits with spicy, juicy shrimp for a dish that’s comforting yet indulgent. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or a brunch-worthy masterpiece, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp and Grits Recipe
Rich & Creamy – The grits are silky smooth, with a hint of butter and cheese for extra indulgence.
Spicy & Savory – Cajun-seasoned shrimp and crispy beef bacon or smoked turkey give this dish incredible depth.
Easy to Make – A restaurant-quality meal in under an hour with simple ingredients.
Customizable – Adjust the spice level, add veggies, or swap proteins to make it your own.
What Does Shrimp and Grits Taste Like?
Imagine buttery, cheesy grits that melt in your mouth, topped with juicy shrimp seasoned with smoky spices and garlic. The crispy bits of beef bacon or smoked turkey add a savory crunch, while a touch of lemon brightens the dish. Every bite is a perfect balance of comfort and bold flavors.
Ingredients for the Best Shrimp and Grits
For the Grits
4 cups water
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup white grits
½ cup shredded white Cheddar cheese
For the Shrimp
4 strips beef bacon or smoked turkey, cut into ¼-inch pieces
¼ cup water
2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1 dash soy sauce + ½ teaspoon vinegar (instead of Worcestershire sauce)
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 pinch cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon minced jalapeño pepper
2 tablespoons minced green onion
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
A large skillet
A medium saucepan
A whisk
A cutting board and knife
How to Make Shrimp and Grits
Step 1: Cook the Bacon or Smoked Turkey
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the beef bacon or smoked turkey until almost crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Transfer to a plate and leave the flavorful drippings in the pan.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup water, 2 tablespoons heavy cream, 2 teaspoons lemon juice, and a dash of soy sauce with ½ teaspoon vinegar. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Grits
In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water, butter, and salt to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Stir occasionally and cook for 20–25 minutes until creamy. Remove from heat and stir in Cheddar cheese.
Step 4: Season the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Let it sit for a few minutes to soak in the flavors.
Step 5: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat the reserved bacon or turkey drippings over high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 1 minute. Flip them over and add jalapeños, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 6: Make the Sauce
Stir in the prepared sauce, along with the cooked bacon or turkey, green onion, and garlic. Let everything simmer for 3–4 minutes until the shrimp are fully cooked. Add a splash of water if needed to thin out the sauce. Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the creamy grits into bowls and top with the spicy shrimp mixture. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, bold flavors of this Southern classic.
What to Serve with Shrimp and Grits
A fresh green salad – Light and crisp to balance the richness.
Crusty bread – Perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce.
Grilled corn or roasted veggies – Adds a smoky, sweet touch.
A glass of white wine – Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully.
Tips for the Best Shrimp and Grits
Use fresh shrimp – It makes a huge difference in flavor and texture.
Stir the grits often – This keeps them from getting clumpy.
Adjust the spice – Add more or less Cajun seasoning based on your preference.
Make it creamy – If you love extra creamy grits, stir in a splash of heavy cream.
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm the grits in a saucepan with a little water or milk to bring back the creamy texture. The shrimp can be reheated quickly in a skillet.
Freeze: While grits don’t freeze well, you can freeze the shrimp mixture for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant grits instead?
Yes! Instant grits cook much faster but won’t be as creamy as traditional grits.
How do I make it less spicy?
Simply reduce the Cajun seasoning and skip the cayenne and jalapeños.
What other cheeses can I use?
Try Parmesan, Gouda, or Pepper Jack for a fun twist.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the butter for olive oil, use dairy-free cheese, and replace heavy cream with coconut milk.
Final Thoughts – A Southern Dish Worth Savoring
This Shrimp and Grits recipe is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, spicy, and savory. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or impressing guests, this dish is sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out.
Love this recipe? Pin it and share it with friends!
More Southern Comfort Recipes
Cajun Jambalaya
Southern Fried Chicken
Creamy Cornbread Casserole
Happy cooking!