Easy Classic Shrimp and Grits is a Southern favorite that pairs creamy, buttery grits with tender shrimp cooked in a flavorful, slightly smoky sauce. It’s hearty enough for dinner yet simple enough for a weekend brunch. This dish brings comfort and flavor together in every bite.
1. Serving Quantity
Serves 4 people
2. Cooking Time
Preparation: 10 minutes
Cooking: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
3. Ingredients
For the grits:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water (or half water, half milk for creamier grits)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the shrimp topping:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
4. Instructions
- Bring water (or water and milk) to a boil in a medium pot. Stir in grits and reduce heat to low. Cook, stirring often, for 20–25 minutes until creamy. Add butter, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Keep warm.
- In a large skillet, cook bacon until crisp. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving drippings in the pan.
- Sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic in the drippings until softened. Stir in smoked paprika and cayenne pepper.
- Add shrimp to the pan and cook until pink, about 3–4 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to create a light sauce. Simmer 2 minutes.
- Stir in parsley and return bacon to the pan.
- Spoon shrimp mixture over bowls of hot grits and serve immediately.
5. Nutrition (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 420
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Protein: 30g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 780mg
6. Tips
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor, but frozen works if thawed properly.
- For creamier grits, replace some water with milk or heavy cream.
- Add hot sauce at the table for an extra kick.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp—they should be tender, not rubbery.
- This dish is best enjoyed immediately while warm and creamy.
This easy version of shrimp and grits delivers classic Southern comfort with rich, bold flavors in under an hour.
