Cheesy Shrimp and Grits is the epitome of Southern comfort food, bringing together creamy, cheesy grits with succulent shrimp in a lightly spiced, rich sauce. The addition of crispy bacon and fresh herbs enhances the dish with layers of savory flavor, making it irresistible. This meal is perfect for both a casual weeknight dinner and an elegant weekend brunch. The beauty of this dish lies in its balance luxuriously creamy grits are the perfect backdrop for the slightly spicy, buttery shrimp, while crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch. Whether you’ve grown up in the South or are just discovering this classic, one bite will transport you to the heart of Lowcountry cuisine.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the 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
For the Shrimp & Sauce:
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1½ pounds shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 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 for spice preference)
- 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
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Prepare the Grits:
- In a large pot over medium heat, combine milk, water, and salt. Bring to a simmer.
- Whisk in the grits and continue whisking until they begin to thicken.
- Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Stir in the butter and cheese. Cover and set aside.
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Prepare the Shrimp & Sauce:
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium-high heat until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
- In the same skillet, add shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
- Add onions to the skillet and cook until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Sprinkle cornstarch over onions and cook for an additional minute.
- Whisk in chicken broth and cook until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in heavy cream, butter, cayenne, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer until the sauce thickens further.
- Return shrimp to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes. Stir in bacon, green onions, and parsley.
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Serve:
- Spoon about 1 cup of grits onto a plate, top with shrimp, and drizzle sauce over. Serve immediately.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes Kcal: 931 kcal | Servings: 4
A Brief History of Shrimp and Grits
Shrimp and Grits has deep roots in Southern culinary traditions, particularly in the Lowcountry region of South Carolina and Georgia. The dish originated as a simple, hearty breakfast for fishermen and laborers along the coastal waters, where fresh shrimp was readily available. Grits made from ground corn were a staple for many Southerners, offering an inexpensive and filling base for meals. Originally known as “breakfast shrimp,” the dish was a common morning meal that provided sustenance for a long day of work.
As the years passed, Shrimp and Grits began to gain popularity outside of the working-class kitchens and into fine dining establishments. Chefs started experimenting with new flavors, incorporating ingredients such as butter, cream, bacon, and various spices to elevate the dish. Today, it is considered a quintessential Southern comfort food, often featured on brunch menus and celebrated as a dish that perfectly represents the flavors and traditions of the South.
What Makes Cheesy Shrimp and Grits Special?
What sets this version of Shrimp and Grits apart is the addition of cheese, which transforms the grits into a luscious, velvety foundation for the shrimp and sauce. The combination of rich, melted cheddar with the smooth texture of grits creates an indulgent base that enhances every bite.
The shrimp are cooked in a flavorful sauce made with bacon, onions, garlic, and a touch of heat from cayenne pepper and hot sauce. This results in a dish that is both creamy and spicy, hearty yet light, with each ingredient playing a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors. The smoky, crispy bacon adds depth to the dish, while the fresh herbs and green onions provide a bright contrast to the richness.
For those who enjoy a little spice, adding extra hot sauce or cayenne pepper can give the dish a bold kick. Conversely, for a milder version, reducing the spice levels or substituting with milder seasonings ensures that even those with a sensitive palate can enjoy it.
Popular Variations of Shrimp and Grits
One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. There are countless variations of Shrimp and Grits that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Some popular adaptations include:
1. Cajun-Style Shrimp and Grits
For those who love bold, spicy flavors, Cajun-style Shrimp and Grits incorporates traditional Cajun seasonings like paprika, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper. The shrimp are often blackened or cooked with Andouille sausage, adding a smoky and spicy dimension to the dish.
2. Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits
Staying true to its roots, this version is a simpler, more rustic take on the dish. It often includes a light, butter-based sauce instead of a heavy cream sauce and focuses on fresh, local ingredients such as wild-caught shrimp and stone-ground grits.
3. Garlic Butter Shrimp and Grits
For those who love a rich, garlicky flavor, this version includes a buttery garlic sauce with fresh lemon juice. The combination of lemon, butter, and garlic creates a vibrant, fresh contrast to the creamy, cheesy grits.
4. Tomato-Based Shrimp and Grits
Some versions of the dish incorporate a savory tomato sauce, adding acidity and brightness to the rich flavors. This variation often includes diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and Worcestershire sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
5. Vegetarian or Vegan Shrimp and Grits
For a plant-based twist, some cooks replace shrimp with mushrooms, jackfruit, or tofu, and use dairy-free cheese and plant-based butter to create a vegan-friendly version. This keeps the dish creamy and flavorful while catering to dietary restrictions.
Tips for Making the Best Cheesy Shrimp and Grits
1. Use High-Quality Grits
Opt for stone-ground grits instead of instant grits for the best texture and flavor. Stone-ground grits take longer to cook, but their rich, hearty texture is well worth the effort.
2. Choose Fresh, High-Quality Shrimp
Since shrimp is the star of this dish, using fresh, wild-caught shrimp will enhance the overall flavor. If fresh shrimp isn’t available, frozen shrimp can be used just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.
3. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp
Shrimp cook quickly, and overcooking them can make them rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque, then remove them from the heat to avoid toughness.
4. Season the Grits Well
Grits have a mild flavor on their own, so be sure to season them properly with salt, butter, and cheese. Adding a little extra seasoning to the grits ensures they complement the shrimp and sauce perfectly.
5. Balance the Flavors
The key to the best Shrimp and Grits is balancing creaminess, spice, and smokiness. Taste as you cook and adjust the seasonings accordingly whether that means adding extra hot sauce for heat or more butter for richness.
Why You Should Try Cheesy Shrimp and Grits
Cheesy Shrimp and Grits is the ultimate comfort food warm, creamy, and deeply satisfying. It’s a dish that brings together the best of Southern cooking traditions, offering a rich history and a complex layering of flavors. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting a dinner party, or simply looking for a delicious and comforting meal, this dish delivers every time.
Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced cooks. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Shrimp and Grits is more than just a meal it’s an experience. With its Southern heritage, rich flavors, and satisfying textures, it’s no wonder that this dish has stood the test of time and remains a favorite for so many. Whether you enjoy the classic version or experiment with one of the many variations, this dish is sure to become a go-to in your recipe collection.
So, the next time you’re craving something comforting yet indulgent, give Cheesy Shrimp and Grits a try. It’s a true Southern classic that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of the Lowcountry with every bite!