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the best true southern shrimp and grits 2026 03 25 193108 683x1024 1

Southern Shrimp and Grits

This classic Southern dish features creamy grits paired with succulent shrimp and a smoky, spicy sauce, perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Grits
  • 3 cups chicken stock
  • 1 cup quick grits Avoid instant grits for better texture.
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 ounces cream cheese Softened.
  • 3/4 cup sharp cheddar, shredded
  • 3/4 cup pepper jack or Monterey jack, shredded
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1.5 teaspoons salt
  • 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked pepper
For the Shrimp and Sauce
  • 5 strips bacon, diced
  • 3 tablespoons cajun seasoning, divided Store-bought or homemade.
  • to taste olive oil
  • to taste salt
  • to taste seasoning salt
  • to taste pepper
  • 1.5 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined Use fresh if possible.
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 scallions, thinly sliced white and green parts
  • 2 tablespoons Calabrian peppers crushed/paste Plus a spoonful of its oil.
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/3 cup chicken stock
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice, fresh squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley

Method
 

Cook Grits & Bacon
  1. In a pot, bring 3 cups of chicken stock to a boil.
  2. Add the grits and cook according to package instructions.
  3. While the grits are cooking, in a pan, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Set the bacon aside and leave the drippings in the pan.
Prepare Shrimp & Pan Sauce
  1. In the same pan with the bacon drippings, add olive oil, 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, and the shrimp.
  2. Sauté until shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add the butter, garlic, scallions, Calabrian peppers, red pepper flakes, chicken stock, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and heavy cream.
  4. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes.
Combine and Serve
  1. Once the grits are creamy, mix in butter, heavy cream, cream cheese, sharp cheddar, pepper jack, and the remaining Cajun seasoning.
  2. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth.
  3. To serve, place a generous scoop of creamy grits on a plate or bowl, and spoon the shrimp and sauce over the top.
  4. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color.

Notes

For best flavor, use fresh shrimp if possible. Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference. If you can't find Calabrian peppers, switch them out for another type of hot pepper or a bit of hot sauce. Stir the grits frequently while cooking to prevent lumps.