Are you a comfort food lover looking for a warm and cozy dish to satisfy your cravings? Look no further than shrimp and grits, a classic Southern staple that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of succulent shrimp, creamy grits, and savory spices is a match made in heaven. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 different variations on the traditional recipe, each with its own unique twist and flavor profile.
From classic Southern shrimp and grits to spicy Creole versions and cheesy Parmesan twists, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or subtle nuances, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. So grab your apron, fire up the stovetop, and get ready to dive into the world of Southern shrimp and grits!
Classic Southern Shrimp and Grits
A staple of Lowcountry cuisine, this dish combines succulent shrimp with creamy grits for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water or broth to a boil and gradually whisk in the grits. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until thickened.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and sauté until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in salt and pepper. If using cream or half-and-half, stir it in during the last minute of cooking.
5. Serve the shrimp over the creamy grits.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cajun-Style Shrimp and Grits
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this spicy twist on a classic comfort dish. This recipe combines succulent shrimp, creamy grits, and a rich Cajun seasoning blend for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or seafood stock
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning blend (e.g., Tony Chachere’s)
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions or by bringing the water to a boil, then reducing heat and simmering for 20-25 minutes.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In same skillet, add garlic and Cajun seasoning blend. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in paprika and salt to taste. Add cooked shrimp back into the skillet and toss to coat with the Cajun mixture.
5. Serve shrimp over warm grits, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Parmesan Shrimp and Grits
Elevate your brunch game with this creamy, cheesy, and indulgent shrimp dish served over tender grits. This recipe combines the rich flavors of parmesan cheese, garlic, and shrimp for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the grits according to package instructions with 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium; add flour and whisk into butter to make a roux. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Add cooked shrimp back into the sauce and season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve shrimp over warm grits, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Creole Shrimp and Grits
Experience the bold flavors of New Orleans with this spicy twist on a classic dish. Spicy Creole Shrimp and Grits combines succulent shrimp, creamy grits, and a kick of heat from andouille sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped andouille sausage
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces stone-ground grits
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions using chicken broth and butter.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the same pan; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add shrimp and stir in paprika and cayenne pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink.
5. Combine cooked grits, sausage mixture, and shrimp. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon and Cheddar Shrimp and Grits
Elevate your breakfast game with this creamy, cheesy, and smoky twist on the classic Southern dish. Crispy bacon, succulent shrimp, and rich cheddar come together in a flavorful one-pot wonder.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 cups stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the grits according to package instructions using water or broth. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the shrimp to the same skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Combine the cooked grits with the shrimp mixture and stir to combine.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Grits
A Southern classic gets a decadent twist with the addition of rich garlic butter to succulent shrimp and creamy grits.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions using 4 cups water and 1 tablespoon butter. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, melt remaining 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Serve shrimp on top of grits, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Grits with Cajun Shrimp
A Southern-inspired twist on classic shrimp and grits, this dish combines creamy stone-ground grits with spicy Cajun-seasoned shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water. Stir in butter until melted.
2. In a separate pan, sauté shrimp with Cajun seasoning over medium-high heat until pink and cooked through.
3. Add grated cheddar cheese to the cooked grits and stir until melted and smooth.
4. Combine cooked shrimp with cheesy grits. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp and Grits with Andouille Sausage
This classic Lowcountry dish gets a spicy kick from the addition of Andouille sausage, which pairs perfectly with succulent shrimp and creamy grits.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Hot sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water or low-sodium chicken broth.
2. In a large skillet, cook Andouille sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in butter and season with salt, pepper, and hot sauce (if using).
6. Serve over cooked grits.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits
This classic Southern dish combines succulent shrimp with creamy grits, smoky bacon, and a hint of spice for a comforting breakfast or brunch that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the grits and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
2. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the butter, paprika, salt, and pepper to the same skillet. Stir until melted.
4. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
5. Stir in the cooked grits and crumbled bacon into the shrimp mixture.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lemon Herb Shrimp and Grits
Brighten up your breakfast or brunch with this flavorful and aromatic dish, featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a zesty lemon herb sauce and served atop creamy stone-ground grits.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water or shrimp broth
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Cook the grits according to package instructions, substituting water with shrimp broth for added flavor.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through (2-3 minutes per side).
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium-low.
5. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, and dill. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Serve shrimp atop grits and drizzle with butter.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Shrimp and Grits
This recipe combines the spicy kick of chipotle peppers with the rich flavor of smoky shrimp, all served over creamy grits. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water or chicken broth.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and chipotle pepper; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Combine cooked grits and shrimp mixture in a serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Grits with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
A Southern classic gets a rich and creamy twist with the addition of sautéed mushrooms. This dish is perfect for a cozy evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water. Add butter and stir until melted.
2. In a separate pan, sauté mushrooms and garlic in a little oil until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Add shrimp to the mushroom mixture and cook until pink and fully cooked.
4. Stir in heavy cream and bring sauce to a simmer.
5. Serve grits topped with shrimp and mushroom mixture. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creole-Style Shrimp and Grits Casserole
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this hearty casserole that combines succulent shrimp, creamy grits, and savory spices. Perfect for a weekend brunch or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook grits according to package instructions using water or chicken broth.
3. In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add shrimp and Creole seasoning; cook until pink and tender.
4. Combine cooked grits with butter, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Assemble casserole by layering grits mixture, shrimp mixture, and cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Shrimp and Grits with Bell Peppers and Onions
A Southern classic gets a flavorful twist with the addition of sweet bell peppers and caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring water to a boil; gradually whisk in grits. Reduce heat; simmer for 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high. Add onion and bell peppers; cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add garlic; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp to skillet; cook, stirring frequently, until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in cooked grits; season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Southern Fried Shrimp and Grits
This classic Lowcountry dish combines crispy fried shrimp with creamy grits, perfect for a comforting breakfast or brunch. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy this Southern favorite in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip shrimp in buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry shrimp in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Cook grits according to package instructions with 4 cups of water.
5. Stir in butter and cheese (if using).
6. Serve fried shrimp over warm grits.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Grits with Tomato Gravy
This classic Lowcountry dish combines the creamy comfort of grits with the succulent flavor of shrimp, all tied together with a rich tomato gravy. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water. Stir in butter until melted.
2. In a large skillet, sauté garlic and shrimp over medium-high heat until pink and cooked through (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer gravy for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly.
5. Serve shrimp and gravy over warm grits. Garnish with parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Grits with Cornbread Crumble
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Cajun cuisine with the comforting warmth of shrimp and grits, topped with a crispy cornbread crumble. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cornbread crumble (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp; cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning and paprika over shrimp; stir to combine.
4. Serve shrimp on top of cooked grits.
5. Top with cornbread crumble and chopped parsley (if using).
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the crumble is toasted and crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Shrimp and Grits
Spicy Sriracha Shrimp and Grits Recipe
A spicy twist on a Southern classic, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with creamy grits and a kick of Sriracha heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water or broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook, covered, until thickened, about 20-25 minutes.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Stir in the Sriracha sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Serve the shrimp over the cooked grits. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a taste of the South with these 18 Southern shrimp and grits recipes! From classic comfort food to spicy twists, this collection has something for everyone. Discover how to elevate your dish with ingredients like bacon, cheddar, parmesan, and andouille sausage. Whether you’re in the mood for something creamy, cheesy, or smoky, these recipes will guide you through the process of creating a delicious Southern-inspired meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
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