What are shrimp and grits made of?

Shrimp and grits consist of seasoned shrimp sautéed in fat (like bacon or butter) and served over creamy cornmeal grits. Add-ins like cheese, cream, garlic, and spices vary by region.

What are grits made of?

Grits are made from ground dried corn, typically dent corn. They can be stone-ground, quick, or instant, and are often simmered with milk or broth for flavor.

What do grits taste like?

Grits have a mild corn flavor and a creamy texture when cooked properly. Their subtle taste makes them ideal for pairing with bold toppings like seasoned shrimp.

What goes with shrimp and grits?

Great pairings include collard greens, cornbread, roasted vegetables, and Southern cocktails or iced tea.

Shrimp and Grits: The Best Southern Comfort Classic You Must Try

Description

A comforting Southern classic, shrimp and grits brings together creamy, cheesy grits topped with smoky bacon, spicy shrimp, and savory tomatoes.

Ingredients

Scale

5 cups water
1 1/2 cups corn grits, preferably stone-ground
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more as needed
4 ounces medium or sharp cheddar cheese (about 1 cup shredded)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/3 cup heavy cream
1 large green bell pepper
4 medium scallions
3 cloves garlic
4 ounces sliced bacon (4 to 6 slices)
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon Creole or Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon granulated sugar
1 pound raw peeled and deveined large shrimp (26 to 30 per pound)
1 to 3 dashes hot sauce, such as Tabasco or Crystal, plus more for serving
Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Instructions

Bring the water and salt to a boil in a large pot. Slowly whisk in the grits.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened and tender (about 20-25 minutes).
Stir in the shredded cheese, butter, and heavy cream. Keep warm.
Dice the green bell pepper, scallions, and garlic. Set aside.
Cook the bacon in a large skillet until crisp. Remove and chop; keep 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet.
Sauté the bell pepper, scallions, and garlic in the bacon fat for 3–4 minutes.
Add the diced tomatoes, seasoning, paprika, and sugar. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3–4 minutes.
Stir in chopped bacon and hot sauce to taste.
Serve the shrimp mixture over warm grits with lemon wedges and extra hot sauce if desired.

Notes

Use stone-ground grits for the best texture and flavor. Adjust spice level with hot sauce to taste.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 530
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 38g
Cholesterol: 210mg

Keywords: shrimp, grits, southern, seafood, comfort food