Creamy Southern shrimp and grits features succulent shrimp in a savory sauce over buttery stone-ground grits. This high protein, family-favorite dish brings authentic Southern comfort to your table.
In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups water and 1 cup whole milk to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits; reduce heat to low.
Cover and cook grits, stirring often, for about 20 minutes until thick and creamy. Stir in 2 tbsp butter, cheddar cheese, and 0.5 tsp salt. Taste and adjust seasoning; keep warm over low heat with occasional stirring.
While grits cook, chop bacon into bite-sized pieces. Place in a cold skillet and cook over medium heat until crisp. Transfer bacon with a slotted spoon to a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve 2 tbsp bacon fat in the skillet.
Pat shrimp dry and season evenly with remaining 0.75 tsp salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Add shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer over medium-high heat. Sauté for 1 minute, flip, and cook another minute until just pink.
Reduce skillet to medium, add remaining 2 tbsp butter, hot sauce, and green onions. Stir to coat shrimp and create a quick pan sauce, about 1 minute. Remove from heat promptly to prevent overcooking.
To serve, scoop creamy grits into bowls, top with sautéed shrimp and pan sauce, then sprinkle with bacon and extra green onions.