If you’re craving a dish that wraps you in warm Southern hospitality, then this Authentic Southern Shrimp and Grits Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine creamy, buttery grits cooked to perfection, topped with tender shrimp bathed in a savory, smoky sauce that bursts with bold Cajun flavors. This classic Lowcountry delight isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of Southern tradition that feels like a comforting hug from the inside. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this recipe brings vibrant colors, rich textures, and irresistible aromas to your table with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the flavors right in an Authentic Southern Shrimp and Grits Recipe starts with simple, quality ingredients that each play a vital role in creating that unmistakable taste. From creamy stone-ground grits to smoky bacon and fresh shrimp, these components come together beautifully to build layers of flavor and texture.
- Stone-ground grits: Offers a hearty, slightly coarse texture that’s essential for creamy, authentic grits.
- Water or chicken broth: Using broth adds extra depth, making the grits more flavorful.
- Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in both the grits and shrimp.
- Unsalted butter: Brings a silky, rich mouthfeel to the grits and shrimp sauce.
- Sharp cheddar cheese (optional): Adds creaminess and a touch of tangy sharpness to the grits.
- Large shrimp: The star of the dish, tender and mild, perfect for soaking up spices.
- Bacon: Adds smokiness and a crispy texture that complements the shrimp beautifully.
- Onion and bell pepper: Creates a sweet and savory base for the sauce with vibrant color.
- Garlic: Infuses a warm, aromatic depth.
- Chicken broth: Helps build a luscious sauce without overpowering brightness.
- Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika: Bring the signature Southern spice and smoky warmth.
- Lemon juice: A splash of acidity that brightens and balances the rich flavors.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish to the dish.
How to Make Authentic Southern Shrimp and Grits Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Grits
Begin by bringing your water or chicken broth and salt to a rolling boil in a medium saucepan. Slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits to avoid lumps. Reduce the heat to low and let them simmer gently, stirring often to prevent sticking. This is where patience pays off—after 20 to 25 minutes, you’ll achieve that creamy, dreamy consistency that defines authentic Southern grits. Stir in butter and cheese if you like, and keep the grits warm while you prepare the shrimp mixture.
Step 2: Prepare the Bacon and Shrimp
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it turns crisp and golden brown. Remove it with a slotted spoon and set aside, but don’t drain the pan – those flavorful bacon drippings will be the foundation of your sauce. Toss the shrimp in the skillet and sauté for just 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the bacon to keep all that rich flavor ready for later.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Add butter to the skillet with bacon drippings, then sauté the onions and bell peppers until they soften and turn translucent—about 3 to 4 minutes. Toss in minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its fragrant aroma. This mix forms the heart of your sauce, combining sweetness and a savory punch that builds incredible depth.
Step 4: Create the Sauce and Finish
Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly, becoming rich and velvety. Return the shrimp and bacon to the skillet, stir in fresh lemon juice and parsley, and cook until everything is heated through. Your shrimp mixture is now bursting with layers of smoky, zesty, and buttery goodness.
Step 5: Serve Over Grits
To complete your Authentic Southern Shrimp and Grits Recipe, spoon the flavorful shrimp and sauce over a generous bed of warm, creamy grits. The combination of the smooth base with the spicy, savory topping is irresistible and truly showcases why this dish remains a Southern favorite.
How to Serve Authentic Southern Shrimp and Grits Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or sliced green onions add a burst of color and brightness, making each bite more vibrant. A sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese or a dash of hot sauce can also personalize the dish and add that extra southern kick everyone loves.
Side Dishes
Serve with crisp garden salad or roasted seasonal vegetables to balance the richness. Collard greens or sautéed kale make classic Southern companions that pair beautifully with the creamy grits and smoky shrimp.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch or special occasions, try serving the shrimp mixture in individual ramekins placed over small grits cakes, garnished with microgreens for a modern twist. Alternatively, pile it high in warm bowls lined with bacon strips, making it both visually stunning and utterly delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover shrimp and grits in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even further after resting, making it just as enjoyable a day or two later.
Freezing
While grits don’t always freeze perfectly, you can freeze the shrimp and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the shrimp tender and flavorful.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally. If the grits become too thick, stir in a splash of water or broth to restore that creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use quick grits instead of stone-ground grits?
Yes! Quick grits can be substituted if you’re short on time, but stone-ground grits provide the authentic texture and flavor that define this classic Southern dish.
What if I don’t eat pork? Can I skip the bacon?
Absolutely. You can skip the bacon or replace it with smoked sausage or turkey bacon to keep the smoky flavor without using pork.
How spicy is this Authentic Southern Shrimp and Grits Recipe?
The heat level is moderate thanks to the Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, but you can adjust it easily by adding more seasoning or a drizzle of hot sauce to suit your taste.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, omit the butter and cheese in the grits, using olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute instead to keep the creaminess.
What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?
Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp work best—they cook quickly and have the perfect texture to complement the grits without overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about creating an Authentic Southern Shrimp and Grits Recipe in your own kitchen that connects you directly to the rich culinary heritage of the South. This dish is more than comfort food; it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and traditions all rolled into one satisfying bowl. So go ahead, gather these simple ingredients and enjoy making this beloved classic—it’s bound to become a favorite that you’ll want to share with friends and family again and again.
Print
Authentic Southern Shrimp and Grits Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Authentic Southern Shrimp and Grits is a comforting, flavor-packed dish made with creamy, buttery grits topped with tender shrimp sautéed in a rich, savory gravy. This classic Lowcountry recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner and brings together the heart of Southern cooking in one satisfying bowl.
Ingredients
For the Grits:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Grits: In a medium saucepan, bring water or chicken broth and salt to a boil. Slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits, reduce heat to low, and simmer while stirring often for 20–25 minutes or until the grits are thick and creamy. Stir in unsalted butter and sharp cheddar cheese if using, then keep warm.
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pan for cooking the shrimp.
- Sauté the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet with the bacon drippings and cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until just pink. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add butter to the same skillet, then sauté the finely chopped onions and bell peppers for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until it slightly thickens and the flavors meld together.
- Combine and Finish: Return cooked shrimp and crispy bacon to the skillet. Add lemon juice and chopped fresh parsley, stirring everything together until heated through.
- Serve: Spoon the shrimp and gravy mixture over the warm creamy grits. Garnish with additional parsley or green onions if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Stone-ground grits are traditional and offer the best texture; however, quick grits can be used for a faster preparation.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce according to your taste preference.
