Shrimp and Grits is one of the South's most iconic dishes. Creamy stone-ground grits are topped with juicy Cajun-seasoned shrimp, crispy bacon, and a rich savory sauce for a meal that's comforting, flavorful, and unforgettable.
Perfect for brunch, lunch, dinner, holidays, and special occasions, this restaurant-quality recipe comes together surprisingly easily at home.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Classic Southern comfort food
- Creamy cheesy grits
- Juicy Cajun shrimp
- Easy enough for weeknights
- Perfect brunch recipe
- Restaurant-quality flavor
Ingredients
For The Grits
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For The Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
Step 1: Cook The Grits
In a large saucepan bring chicken broth to a boil.
Slowly whisk in grits.
Reduce heat to low.
Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently.
Stir in:
- Heavy cream
- Butter
- Cheddar cheese
- Salt
- Pepper
Keep warm.
Step 2: Cook The Bacon
In a large skillet cook bacon until crispy.
Remove bacon and set aside.
Leave about 1 tablespoon bacon grease in the skillet.
Step 3: Season The Shrimp
Toss shrimp with:
- Cajun seasoning
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Black pepper
Step 4: Cook The Shrimp
Add olive oil to skillet.
Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side.
Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Stir in lemon juice.
Remove from heat.
Step 5: Assemble
Spoon cheesy grits into bowls.
Top with shrimp.
Sprinkle with:
- Crispy bacon
- Green onions
Serve immediately.
Tips For The Best Shrimp and Grits
- Use stone-ground grits for the best texture.
- Don't overcook the shrimp.
- Freshly grated cheese melts better.
- Save some bacon grease for extra flavor.
What To Serve With Shrimp and Grits
- Southern Cornbread
- Collard Greens
- Candied Yams
- Fried Green Tomatoes
- Sweet Tea
Storage
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
More Southern Recipes You'll Love
- Southern Cornbread
- Collard Greens
- Candied Yams
- Fried Chicken
- Chicken and Dumplings
- Sweet Potato Pie
Final Thoughts
This Southern Shrimp and Grits recipe combines creamy cheese grits, Cajun shrimp, crispy bacon, and savory Southern flavor into one unforgettable meal. It's comfort food at its finest.