Post Workout High Calorie Dinner: Shrimp and Grits with Bacon Recipe

Creamy grits, plump shrimp, crispy bacon — Southern post workout comfort food that delivers carbs, protein, and the kind of satisfaction no protein shake can match.

Cook 45 min Difficulty NORMAL 620 kcal
#high protein
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • raw shrimp, peeled and deveined 1.5 lbs
  • quick-cooking grits 1 cup
  • whole milk 2 cups
  • water 2 cups
  • thick-cut bacon 6 slices
  • sharp cheddar cheese, shredded 1 cup
  • unsalted butter 4 tbsp
  • scallions, sliced 2 pieces
Seasonings/Sauce
  • kosher salt 2 tsp
  • black pepper 1 tsp
  • paprika 1 tsp
  • garlic powder 0.5 tsp
  • lemon juice 1 tbsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 58 g 37%
Protein 32 g 21%
Fat 28 g 41%
Serving size 375g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    1. Crisp bacon in a large skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally, until golden and crunchy, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate; reserve 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet for the shrimp.

  2. 2

    2. In a saucepan, bring water and milk to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the grits, then lower heat and cook, stirring frequently, until thick and creamy, 12-15 minutes. Monitor closely to prevent scorching.

  3. 3

    3. Stir butter, shredded cheddar, half of the kosher salt, and a pinch of black pepper into the cooked grits. Adjust consistency with a splash of hot water if needed. Cover to keep warm while preparing shrimp.

  4. 4

    4. Toss peeled shrimp with paprika, garlic powder, remaining salt, and black pepper. Add seasoned shrimp to the reserved bacon fat in the skillet and sauté over medium-high heat until just opaque and curled, 2-3 minutes per side. Do not overcook.

  5. 5

    5. Off heat, add lemon juice to the skillet and toss shrimp to coat. Spoon cheese grits onto plates, top with shrimp, crumbled bacon, and sliced scallions. Serve immediately for best texture.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What ingredient gives this Shrimp and Grits with Bacon its signature flavor?
The combination of juicy shrimp, smoky thick-cut bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese defines the dish’s bold Southern flavor. The bacon provides a savory base, while the cheese enriches the grits for creamy comfort.
Q. What’s the key to perfectly cooked shrimp in this recipe?
The shrimp are cooked quickly in the residual bacon fat over medium-high heat—about 2-3 minutes per side—so they stay juicy and tender. Watch the color: remove as soon as the shrimp turn opaque and curl slightly.
Q. How can I keep the grits creamy and prevent clumping or scorching?
Keep the saucepan at a gentle simmer and stir frequently while the grits cook. Adding the liquid gradually and staying attentive prevents sticking or lumps—if the grits get too thick, a splash of hot water restores creaminess.
Q. How many calories and what macronutrient breakdown does each serving provide?
Each serving delivers approximately 620 kcal, with 58g carbohydrates (37% of calories), 32g protein (21%), and 28g fat (41%), supporting both muscle recovery and satiety.
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