🇺🇸 USA · Food
Savory Southern Shrimp and Grits
By eatmundo · July 3, 2026
A beloved Lowcountry staple, Shrimp and Grits marries creamy, stone-ground grits with succulent, sautéed shrimp, often bathed in a rich, savory sauce featuring bacon or sausage, bell peppers, and onions. This comforting dish is a testament to Southern hospitality and flavor.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Prepare the grits: In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups chicken broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in 1 cup quick-cooking grits. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and creamy. Stir in 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 2 tbsp butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm.
- 2
For the shrimp: In a large skillet, cook 4 slices bacon until crispy. Remove bacon, reserving 1 tbsp grease in the skillet. Crumble bacon and set aside.
- 3
Add 1 diced small onion, 1/2 diced green bell pepper, and 2 minced garlic cloves to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- 4
Stir in 1 lb peeled and deveined shrimp, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, and 1/4 tsp salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until shrimp are pink and opaque.
- 5
Pour in 1/2 cup chicken broth and 1/4 cup heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir in 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley.
- 6
Serve grits hot in shallow bowls, topped generously with the shrimp and sauce. Garnish with crumbled bacon and extra parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is shrimp and grits?+
Shrimp and grits is a savory dish originating from the Southern United States. It consists of sautéed shrimp served over a bed of creamy, cooked corn grits, seasoned with garlic, onions, and broth. It is traditionally consumed as a hearty breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Which type of pork is best suited for the Savory Southern Shrimp and Grits recipe?+
For an authentic depth of flavor in Savory Southern Shrimp and Grits, use thick-cut bacon or a smoked pork product like tasso ham. These choices render flavorful fat and provide a smoky, savory backbone to the dish.
What kind of grits should I use and how do I ensure they are cooked to the perfect creamy consistency?+
Choose stone-ground or regular (not instant) grits for the best creamy texture. Cook them low and slow, stirring frequently until they are smooth, thick, and all liquid is absorbed, typically 20-30 minutes.
How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp in Savory Southern Shrimp and Grits, and what does perfect doneness look like?+
Shrimp cook very quickly, usually within 2-3 minutes per side. They are perfectly done when they turn opaque pink and curl into a 'C' shape; overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery.
What's the best cheese and cream to use for the grits component, and how do they impact the overall flavor?+
Sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese combined with heavy cream or half-and-half will yield rich, indulgent grits. These ingredients melt into a velvety texture and add a critical tangy, savory counterpoint to the shrimp.
Mundo Match
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