Nothing says Southern comfort like a bowl of Cheesy Shrimp and Grits. Creamy, buttery grits provide the perfect base for succulent shrimp cooked in a rich, slightly spicy sauce. The addition of crispy bacon, fresh green onions, and parsley takes the flavors to the next level, making every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This dish is an ideal blend of textures and flavors silky smooth grits, tender shrimp, crispy bacon, and a creamy, well-balanced sauce. It’s the kind of meal that warms your soul and transports you straight to the heart of the South. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, this recipe will become a go-to in your home cooking rotation.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
Grits:
- 2 cups low-fat milk
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal grits
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
Shrimp & Sauce:
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1½ pounds shrimp, peeled & de-veined
- 1½ cups chopped onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ cup chopped green onions
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Directions:
- Prepare the Grits: In a large pot over medium heat, combine the milk, water, and salt. Bring to a simmer.
- Whisk in the grits and continue whisking until they begin to thicken to avoid lumps.
- Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Stir in butter and cheese. Cover and set aside.
- Prepare the Shrimp & Sauce: In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium-high heat until crisp. Remove and drain on a paper towel.
- Return the skillet to the heat and add the shrimp. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, then remove and set aside.
- Add onions to the skillet and cook until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Sprinkle cornstarch over the onions and garlic. Cook for another minute.
- Whisk in chicken broth and cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add cream, butter, cayenne pepper, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens further.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes. Avoid overcooking.
- Stir in bacon, green onions, and parsley.
- Serve: Spoon grits onto plates, top with shrimp, and pour sauce over everything. Serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 931 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
A Taste of Southern Tradition
Grits have been a fundamental part of Southern cuisine for centuries, with their origins tracing back to Native American tribes who ground dried corn into a coarse meal and cooked it into a porridge-like consistency. When European settlers arrived in the South, they adopted this technique and began incorporating grits into their diets. Over time, grits became a popular breakfast staple, particularly in coastal communities where fresh seafood, including shrimp, was readily available.
Shrimp and Grits, as we know it today, was traditionally a simple dish prepared by fishermen in the Carolinas. Freshly caught shrimp were sautéed with bacon or butter and served over a steaming bowl of grits for a hearty, filling meal. As the dish gained popularity, chefs began adding their own twists, incorporating ingredients like cheese, garlic, spices, and creamy sauces to enhance its flavor. Today, Cheesy Shrimp and Grits is considered a quintessential Southern comfort food that represents the heart and soul of Lowcountry cooking.
What Makes This Dish Special?
One of the reasons Cheesy Shrimp and Grits remains so popular is its versatility. This dish can be adapted to suit different tastes and preferences, whether you prefer a mild and creamy version or a spicier, Cajun-inspired take. The combination of cheese and grits creates a rich and satisfying texture, while the shrimp adds a light, delicate contrast. The sauce, made with cream, chicken broth, and a touch of cayenne pepper, ties everything together, delivering a comforting yet complex depth of flavor.
Here are a few elements that make this dish stand out:
-
Creamy, Cheesy Grits: The grits are cooked to perfection with milk, butter, and cheddar cheese, creating a velvety smooth texture that pairs beautifully with the shrimp and sauce. White cheddar is often used for its sharp yet creamy flavor, though variations with smoked gouda or Parmesan can also be delicious.
-
Savory, Spiced Shrimp: The shrimp are quickly cooked in a blend of bacon, onions, garlic, and spices, creating a slightly smoky and savory flavor profile. The touch of cayenne pepper and hot sauce adds just the right amount of heat to balance the richness of the cheese and cream.
-
Crispy Bacon and Fresh Herbs: The addition of crispy bacon provides a crunchy texture and a deep, smoky taste, while fresh green onions and parsley bring a burst of freshness that lightens up the dish.
-
A Perfectly Balanced Sauce: The sauce is rich yet not too heavy, with a creamy consistency that coats the shrimp without overpowering the delicate seafood flavors. The combination of chicken broth and heavy cream ensures a smooth and luxurious finish.
When to Serve Cheesy Shrimp and Grits
One of the best things about Cheesy Shrimp and Grits is that it can be enjoyed at any time of day. While traditionally served as a breakfast or brunch dish in the South, it has become a popular dinner option in many households and restaurants. The dish is hearty enough to be a filling main course, yet light enough to be paired with a simple salad or vegetable side for a well-rounded meal.
Here are a few occasions when Cheesy Shrimp and Grits is a perfect choice:
- Brunch with Friends and Family: Serve this dish for a weekend brunch, pairing it with fresh fruit, biscuits, or mimosas for a true Southern-style feast.
- Date Night at Home: Impress your partner with a homemade version of this restaurant-worthy dish, adding a glass of wine for an elegant touch.
- Holiday Gatherings: Shrimp and Grits is a great addition to special occasions, such as Easter, Christmas, or Thanksgiving brunch.
- Quick Weeknight Dinner: With a preparation time of just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for a fast yet indulgent dinner on busy evenings.
Pairing Suggestions
While Cheesy Shrimp and Grits is a complete meal on its own, it can be complemented by a variety of side dishes and beverages to enhance the overall dining experience. Here are a few great pairings:
- Vegetable Sides: A side of sautéed greens, such as collard greens, kale, or spinach, provides a fresh and slightly bitter contrast to the rich, creamy grits.
- Cornbread or Biscuits: A warm, buttery biscuit or a slice of sweet cornbread makes an excellent companion to the dish.
- Fresh Salad: A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the cheese and cream.
- Beverage Pairings: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs beautifully with the creamy, cheesy flavors of the dish. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing iced tea or citrus-infused water is a great choice.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Shrimp and Grits is more than just a dish it’s a symbol of Southern hospitality, comfort, and tradition. With its creamy, cheesy grits, savory shrimp, crispy bacon, and perfectly balanced sauce, it delivers a rich and indulgent experience with every bite. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. You can customize the level of spice, experiment with different types of cheese, or even add extra ingredients like bell peppers, mushrooms, or andouille sausage for a unique twist. No matter how you prepare it, Cheesy Shrimp and Grits is a satisfying meal that brings warmth and joy to the table.
So, if you’ve never tried this classic Southern dish before, now is the perfect time to give it a go. Once you take that first bite of creamy, cheesy grits topped with perfectly seasoned shrimp and a luscious sauce, you’ll understand why this dish has stood the test of time. Enjoy!