Best Easy Shrimp and Grits Recipe

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.

Cook 40 min Difficulty NORMAL 410 kcal
#high protein #southern classic #comfort food #family dinner
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • stone-ground grits 1 cup
  • large shrimp (peeled and deveined) 1 lb
  • whole milk 1 cup
  • water 3 cups
  • unsalted butter 4 tbsp
  • shredded cheddar cheese 1 cup
  • thick-cut bacon 4 slices
  • green onion (sliced) 2 pieces
Seasonings/Sauce
  • kosher salt 1.25 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
  • paprika 0.5 tsp
  • garlic powder 0.5 tsp
  • hot sauce 2 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 37 g 36%
Protein 26 g 25%
Fat 16 g 39%
Serving size 350g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    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.

  2. 2

    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.

  3. 3

    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.

  4. 4

    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.

  5. 5

    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.

  6. 6

    To serve, scoop creamy grits into bowls, top with sautéed shrimp and pan sauce, then sprinkle with bacon and extra green onions.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The key ingredients that define Shrimp and Grits are the stone-ground grits for a creamy base and the succulent large shrimp, which provide the signature savory flavor and texture. The cheddar cheese and bacon also enrich the dish, creating its classic Southern taste.
Q. How should I control the heat when cooking the grits and shrimp?
For the creamiest grits, simmer gently on low heat and stir often to prevent sticking. For shrimp, use medium-high heat for quick, even cooking—just 1-2 minutes per side—then reduce to medium to finish in the pan sauce. This helps keep the shrimp tender and juicy.
Q. How can I prevent my shrimp from becoming rubbery?
To avoid rubbery shrimp, cook them over medium-high heat in a single layer for just 1 to 2 minutes per side. Once shrimp turn pink and opaque, remove them from heat promptly. Overcooking is the main cause of tough texture, so watch shrimp carefully during this step.
Q. How many calories and how much protein does this Shrimp and Grits recipe provide?
Each serving of this recipe is approximately 350g and contains about 410 kcal. Protein comes in at 26g per serving, making it a high-protein comfort food option. The protein-to-carb ratio also supports a satisfying, balanced meal.
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