Delightful Shrimp and Grits Recipe for Every Occasion

Name: Delightful Shrimp and Grits Recipe for Every Occasion
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup stone-ground grits; 4 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 3 tbsp unsalted butter (2 for grits, 1 for sautéing); 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 green onions, sliced; 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning; Juice of 1 lemon

Recipe By:

Lily Hartwell

Posted:

November 12, 2025

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The aroma of sizzling shrimp mingling with the buttery creaminess of grits dances through the air, instantly igniting your taste buds. Each bite transports you to a cozy Southern kitchen where comfort food reigns supreme, making this dish a celebration of flavor and warmth.

It’s Sunday brunch at Grandma’s house, laughter echoing as she serves up her famous shrimp and grits. It’s a dish that not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart. Now imagine recreating that joy in your own home—trust me, it’s easier than it sounds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful dish is surprisingly easy to prepare while delivering big flavors that will impress your family and friends.
The creamy texture of the grits perfectly complements the succulent shrimp, creating a visual feast on your plate.
Ideal for weekend brunches or casual weeknight dinners, this meal is versatile enough for any occasion.
You can customize it easily by adding your favorite spices or veggies!

I vividly remember my first attempt at cooking shrimp and grits; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it. The happiness on their faces was priceless.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Medium Shrimp: Fresh or frozen works well; just ensure they’re peeled and deveined for easy cooking.
Stone-Ground Grits: Opt for stone-ground for that authentic Southern flavor; they yield a creamier texture.
Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the salt level while adding richness to your dish.
Heavy Cream: Adds a velvety smoothness to the grits; feel free to substitute with half-and-half if desired.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring robust flavor; finely chop them for maximum impact in every bite.
Green Onions: These provide a fresh crunch; slice them thinly for garnish or mix them into the dish.
Old Bay Seasoning: A classic seafood spice blend that enhances the flavor of shrimp beautifully.
Lemon Juice: A splash adds brightness; use freshly squeezed juice for the best flavor.
Chicken Broth: For cooking the grits; it infuses them with additional savory goodness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare the Grits: Start by bringing four cups of chicken broth to a gentle boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in one cup of stone-ground grits until smooth.

Simmer Until Thickened: Reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally until the mixture thickens into creamy goodness that clings lovingly to your spoon.

Add Creamy Goodness: Stir in half a cup of heavy cream along with two tablespoons of butter once the grits are cooked through. This transforms them into dreamy clouds of comfort.

Sauté the Shrimp: In another pan over medium heat, melt a tablespoon of butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant before adding one pound of medium shrimp seasoned with Old Bay seasoning.

Cook Until Pink: Cook the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them because no one likes rubbery shrimp!

Add Final Touches: Remove from heat and drizzle some lemon juice over the cooked shrimp while stirring in sliced green onions for a burst of freshness before serving atop those luscious grits.

Enjoy this delicious meal warm right away or serve alongside your favorite sides!

You Must Know

Choosing fresh shrimp can elevate the dish’s taste and texture remarkably.
The grits should be creamy but not gluey for that perfect mouthfeel.
Using homemade stock instead of water adds depth to your grits, enhancing their flavor significantly.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the grits while you sauté the shrimp to maximize flavor and minimize cooking time. This efficient sequence ensures everything is ready at the same time.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out traditional cheese for nutritional yeast for a vegan twist or add sautéed vegetables for extra color and nutrition. Customizing keeps things exciting!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or stock to revive their creamy texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

The best shrimp are those with a slight snap; avoid mushy ones for better texture.
Always rinse grits thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch, ensuring creaminess.
Stir often while cooking to prevent clumping and achieve that perfect smooth consistency.

I remember serving this dish at a family gathering, and everyone fought over the last bowl of grits! Their delighted faces were priceless; it’s moments like these that make cooking worthwhile.

FAQ

What type of shrimp is best for shrimp and grits?

Fresh, large shrimp are ideal for their juicy flavor and satisfying bite.

Can I make shrimp and grits ahead of time?

Yes, prepare components separately, then reheat when ready to serve.

Are there vegetarian alternatives to shrimp?

Consider using mushrooms or tofu seasoned well as delicious substitutes in this recipe.

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