Southern Shrimp and Grits Recipe

Shrimp and grits is a beloved Southern dish that perfectly combines creamy, cheesy grits with flavorful shrimp cooked in a savory sauce. This recipe is hearty, comforting, and surprisingly easy to prepare! Follow this guide to create the ultimate Southern Shrimp and Grits at home.

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Ingredients

For the Grits:

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water or chicken broth (for added flavor)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Grits

1. In a medium pot, bring water (or chicken broth) to a boil. Add salt.
2. Gradually whisk in the grits to prevent lumps. Reduce heat to low and cover.
3. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking, and cook for about 20-25 minutes until the grits are tender.
4. Add milk, butter, and shredded cheese. Stir until creamy. Pro Tip: If your grits are too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to achieve your desired consistency.

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2. Prepare the Shrimp

1. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel and season lightly with salt, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the shrimp to the skillet, cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
5. Deglaze the pan with chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the pan. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.

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3. Assemble the Dish

1. Spoon the creamy grits onto a serving plate or bowl.
2. Top with the cooked shrimp and vegetables.
3. Drizzle with the pan sauce for extra flavor.
4. Garnish with crumbled bacon and fresh parsley.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair this dish with a side of sautéed greens, like collard greens or spinach, for a complete meal.
• For a special occasion, serve with a glass of chilled white .

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Pro Tips for Perfect Shrimp and Grits

1. Use fresh shrimp: The fresher the shrimp, the better the dish. If fresh isn’t available, frozen shrimp works just as well—just thaw them completely before cooking.
2. Don’t rush the grits: Slow cooking is key to creamy grits. Stir often to prevent clumps.
3. Customize the heat: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. For more spice, add a dash of hot sauce to the shrimp while cooking.

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Enjoy Your Southern Classic!

This Southern Shrimp and Grits recipe is perfect for brunch, dinner, or any time you’re craving a taste of the South. With its rich, creamy grits and savory shrimp, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!