Southern Shrimp and Grits : Comfort Food with Bold Flavor

There’s no dish that says “Southern comfort” quite like a bowl of Southern Shrimp and Grits. This classic recipe brings together buttery, cheesy grits and juicy, seasoned shrimp, all topped with a savory sauce that pulls everything together. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or weekend brunch, this dish is warm, filling, and full of bold flavor.

If you’re craving more warm and cozy dinner ideas, check out our Creamy Steak and Mushroom Soup or Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup.

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Why This Shrimp and Grits Recipe Is So Popular

The beauty of shrimp and grits lies in its simplicity—yet every bite is layered with flavor and texture. Creamy, stone-ground grits form the base, enhanced with sharp cheddar cheese. The shrimp are pan-seared with paprika and garlic, and the sauce is made with the flavorful bits left in the skillet.

This simple shrimp and grits recipe delivers:

• Comfort food flavor without complicated steps
• A balanced dish with creamy, cheesy, and spicy elements
• The perfect shrimp and grits sauce that ties it all together
• Easy prep that comes together in under an hour

Looking for a lighter dish? Try our flavorful Miso Soup for a healthy Japanese option.

Ingredients for Shrimp and Cheese Grits Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need for this hearty dish:

For the Grits:

• 4 cups water
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

For the Shrimp and Sauce:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Want something equally cheesy? Try our Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers for a high-protein twist.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To make this shrimp and grits recipe easy and mess-free, you’ll need:

• Medium saucepan (for grits)
• Large skillet (for shrimp)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Ladle or serving spoon

Optional: cast iron skillet for a deeper sear on the shrimp.

How to Make Simple Shrimp and Grits Recipe (Step-by-Step)

Here’s how to bring it all together:

1. Cook the Grits
In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt. Stir in the grits, reduce heat to low, and cover. Simmer for 20–25 minutes, whisking occasionally to prevent clumping.

2. Add Cheese and Butter
Once the grits are tender and thickened, stir in the shredded cheddar and butter. Season with black pepper and more salt if needed. Cover and keep warm.

3. Season the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper.

4. Sear the Shrimp
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.

5. Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Add lemon juice and scrape up any browned bits from the pan—this is the base of your shrimp and grits sauce. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes.

6. Assemble
Spoon cheesy grits into bowls. Top with shrimp, then drizzle with sauce. Finish with chopped parsley if desired.

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Tips for the Best Grits and Shrimp Recipes at Home

• Use stone-ground grits for the best texture—instant grits won’t hold the same flavor.
• Don’t skip the cheese—sharp cheddar gives the grits richness and depth.
• Cook shrimp quickly—overcooking leads to rubbery texture.
• Make sauce in the same skillet to capture all that shrimp flavor.

For more shrimp ideas, try our Honey Walnut Shrimp—a delicious Asian fusion alternative.

Shrimp and Grits Sauce Recipe – The Secret to Full Flavor

A great sauce for shrimp and grits doesn’t need to be complicated. The key is building flavor from the pan. Here’s how to elevate yours:

• Deglaze the pan with lemon juice or a splash of broth
• Add butter for richness
• Infuse flavor from garlic, herbs, or red pepper flakes for heat
• Keep it light to complement (not overpower) the creamy grits

Want to spice it up? Add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce for a bold spicy shrimp and grits finish.

Variations: Spicy Shrimp and Grits, Cajun Style, or Cheesy Grits Only

Customize your bowl with these tasty twists:

• Spicy Shrimp and Grits – Add cayenne or hot sauce to both shrimp and sauce
• Cajun-Style – Season shrimp with Cajun blend and include bell peppers and scallions in the skillet
• Cheesy Grits Only – Skip the shrimp and serve grits with Honey Roasted Carrots
• Add greens – Pair with Ultimate Green Bean Casserole or sautéed kale

What to Serve with Shrimp and Grits

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone but pairs beautifully with:

• Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots
• Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls
• Garlic Herb Beer Bread
• Creamy Mushroom Soup
• Pumpkin Maple Cream Trifle for dessert

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

To store:
Refrigerate leftover grits and shrimp in separate containers for up to 3 days.

To reheat grits:
Add a splash of water or broth and warm over low heat, stirring to restore creaminess.

To reheat shrimp:
Quickly warm in a skillet over low heat. Avoid microwaving for best texture.

Freezing is not recommended for the shrimp, but grits freeze well in airtight containers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Grits and Shrimp Recipes

• Lumpy grits: Whisk often and add liquid slowly.
• Overcooked shrimp: Cook just until opaque, then remove from heat.
• Bland sauce: Don’t forget salt, lemon, or pepper to bring the sauce to life.
• Using low-quality grits: Go for stone-ground if you can—they make a big difference.

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Shrimp and Grits FAQ

Can I use instant grits?
Yes, but the texture and flavor won’t be as rich as stone-ground.

What cheese is best for grits?
Sharp cheddar is most traditional, but gouda or fontina can also work.

Can I make this dish ahead?
You can make the grits and sauce ahead, but cook the shrimp fresh for the best results.

What type of shrimp should I use?
Large or jumbo peeled and deveined shrimp work best.

Final Thoughts: Southern Shrimp and Grits That Feels Like Home

This Southern Shrimp and Grits recipe is comfort food at its finest. Creamy, cheesy, and just a little bit spicy, it’s the kind of meal that brings people together—whether it’s Sunday supper or a quiet night in.

It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and undeniably satisfying. Try it once, and it might just become your new favorite way to enjoy shrimp.

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