Rich & Creamy Shrimp and Grits: A True Southern Comfort!
By Jason Griffith
Few dishes encapsulate the heartwarming essence of Southern comfort food quite like Shrimp and Grits. This classic dish brings together velvety, cheesy grits with succulent, perfectly cooked shrimp, all seasoned with a touch of paprika and aromatics. It’s a rich, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful meal that feels both indulgent and deeply comforting. Perfect for a hearty breakfast, a leisurely brunch, or a quick and elegant weeknight dinner, this recipe makes a beloved Southern staple accessible to everyone.
Why I Love This Recipe
I’m a huge fan of dishes that deliver incredible flavor with a touch of regional charm, and Shrimp and Grits is a shining example. What I absolutely adore about this recipe is the incredible contrast between the creamy, luxurious texture of the cheese grits and the tender, juicy bite of the seasoned shrimp. The warmth of the paprika and garlic perfectly complements the sweetness of the shrimp, creating a harmonious and utterly addictive flavor profile. It feels incredibly comforting and satisfying, yet it’s surprisingly straightforward to prepare, making it a fantastic addition to any home cook’s repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or medium)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or unsalted butter (for cooking shrimp)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions or crumbled cooked bacon for garnish
Swaps and Notes
- Grits: Stone-ground grits are recommended for their superior texture and flavor. Instant or quick-cooking grits can be used for speed, but adjust liquid and cooking time per package directions.
- Liquid for Grits: Cooking grits in chicken broth (or seafood broth) instead of just water adds a significant depth of savory flavor.
- Cheese for Grits: Sharp or medium cheddar cheese is classic for its flavor and melt. You can also use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère.
- Shrimp Size: Use large or extra-large shrimp (21/25 count per pound) as they hold up well to cooking and provide a satisfying bite.
- Oil/Butter for Shrimp: Both olive oil and unsalted butter work well for cooking the shrimp, adding their own distinct flavors.
- Paprika: Regular paprika adds color and mild flavor, but smoked paprika can add a wonderful smoky depth to the shrimp.
- Seasoning: Adjust salt and pepper to taste throughout the recipe. A pinch of cayenne pepper can be added to the shrimp for a spicy kick.
- Garnish: Chopped green onions add a fresh, mild onion flavor and color. Crumbled cooked bacon adds a salty, smoky crunch. Other options include a dash of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Directions:
1. Cook the Grits: In a medium-sized saucepan, bring the 4 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, slowly whisk in the 1 cup of stone-ground grits. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the grits simmer according to package instructions (typically 20-30 minutes), stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until they are thick, creamy, and tender.
2. Finish the Grits: Once the grits are cooked, remove them from the heat. Stir in the 1 cup shredded cheddar cheeseand 2 tablespoons unsalted butter until completely melted and smooth. Season the grits generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Keep them warm while you prepare the shrimp.
3. Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil or unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the 2 cloves minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. Add the 1 lb peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet, along with ½ teaspoon paprika, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Cook the shrimp for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and opaque and are cooked through. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become tough quickly.
4. Assemble and Serve: Spoon a generous serving of the warm, cheesy grits into individual bowls. Top the grits with the perfectly cooked, seasoned shrimp. If desired, garnish with chopped green onions for freshness and color, or crumbled cooked bacon for extra savory crunch. Serve immediately and enjoy your rich and creamy Southern delight!
Tips for Success
- Whisk Grits Slowly: When adding grits to boiling liquid, whisk slowly to prevent lumps.
- Stir Grits Frequently: Stone-ground grits require frequent stirring to prevent sticking and ensure creaminess.
- Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly. Remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque to keep them tender and juicy.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Season both the grits and the shrimp to ensure maximum flavor in every bite.
- Serve Immediately: Grits can thicken significantly as they cool, so this dish is best enjoyed fresh from the stove.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This Rich & Creamy Shrimp and Grits is a complete and satisfying meal on its own, perfect for any time of day.
- Brunch: A fantastic option for a leisurely weekend brunch.
- Dinner: Serve as a hearty weeknight dinner.
- Side of Greens: A light side of sautéed collard greens or roasted asparagus can complement the richness.
- Hot Sauce: Offer a bottle of your favorite hot sauce on the side for those who like extra kick.
- Beverages: A cold iced tea, crisp beer, or a light-bodied white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc would pair well.
- For other delightful seafood or comforting meals, explore these Chefmaniac.com favorites:
Final Thoughts
This Rich & Creamy Shrimp and Grits recipe is a true taste of Southern hospitality, delivering unparalleled comfort and robust flavor. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from a cozy family meal to an impressive brunch spread. Get ready to fall in love with this classic!
What’s your favorite Southern comfort food, or do you have a secret ingredient that makes your grits extra special? Share your insights and feedback in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow Chefmaniac for more exciting and delicious recipes!
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