Shrimp and Salmon Over Cheesy Grits – The Perfect Southern Comfort Seafood Dish
There is something incredibly satisfying about combining perfectly seasoned seafood with creamy, cheesy grits. This Shrimp and Salmon Over Cheesy Grits recipe brings together bold spices, tender shrimp, flaky salmon, and rich cheddar-infused stone-ground grits for a dish that feels both elegant and comforting.
Whether you’re preparing a special weekend dinner or simply craving a Southern-inspired comfort meal, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor without complicated steps.
Why I Love This Recipe
As someone who appreciates bold flavors and comfort food classics, this dish checks every box. The smoky paprika and subtle heat from cayenne elevate the shrimp, while the salmon adds richness and depth. The creamy cheddar grits bring everything together with velvety texture and savory goodness.
It reminds me of the deep, comforting flavors found in Southern classics like This Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo Is My Favorite Bowl of Southern Comfort, but with a seafood-forward twist that feels fresh and elevated.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
For the Salmon
- 2 salmon fillets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Cheesy Grits
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ingredient Swaps and Notes
- You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if you prefer a lighter version.
- Gouda or Monterey Jack can replace cheddar for a different cheese profile.
- If you prefer extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the shrimp.
- Using chicken broth instead of water for the grits adds deeper flavor.
- Wild-caught salmon works beautifully, but farm-raised is perfectly fine for this recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Grits
In a medium saucepan, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits and reduce the heat to low.
Simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and smooth. Once cooked, stir in butter, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm while preparing the seafood.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Rub with olive oil and season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, lemon pepper seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the salmon for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until it flakes easily with a fork. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Spoon a generous portion of cheesy grits onto each plate. Top with a salmon fillet and a serving of shrimp. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Tips for Success
- Stir the grits frequently to prevent sticking or clumping.
- Do not overcook the shrimp. They cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long.
- Let the salmon develop a light crust before flipping for better flavor and texture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning at every stage for maximum flavor balance.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This dish pairs beautifully with something bright and refreshing like This Blueberry Lemonade Is My Favorite Refreshing Drink for Sunny Days. The citrusy notes complement the richness of the seafood and cheese perfectly.
For an appetizer, consider serving This Baked Brie Appetizer Is My Favorite Effortless Way to Impress Guests before the main course.
If you’re building a full Southern-inspired menu, you might also enjoy exploring comforting classics like Classic Spaghetti Recipe with Homemade Sauce for another hearty dinner idea.
And for dessert, nothing completes a meal like This Big Family Banana Pudding Is My Favorite Classic Dessert to Feed a Crowd.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 650
- Protein: 45g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Store leftover shrimp, salmon, and grits separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat grits gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. Seafood is best reheated gently to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving too long, as it can toughen the shrimp.
Freezing is not recommended for the assembled dish, as the texture of grits can change significantly.
More Recipes You Will Love
If you enjoy comfort-forward meals with bold flavors, you may also love:
- This Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo Is My Favorite Bowl of Southern Comfort
- Classic Spaghetti Recipe with Homemade Sauce
These recipes bring the same satisfying, hearty appeal to your dinner table.
Final Thoughts
Shrimp and Salmon Over Cheesy Grits is the perfect balance of elegance and comfort. The creamy cheddar grits provide a luxurious base, while the seasoned seafood delivers bold, satisfying flavor in every bite.
If you make this recipe, I would love to hear how it turned out for you. Leave a comment, share your twists on the seasoning, and follow along for more comforting, flavor-packed recipes from my kitchen to yours.
— Jason Griffith
ChefMeniac.com
