Authentic Southern Shrimp and Grits

If comfort food had a crown, Authentic Southern Shrimp and Grits would be sitting on the throne. This dish is pure Southern soul on a plate—creamy, buttery grits topped with tender, juicy shrimp sautéed in a savory, flavorful sauce that hits all the right notes: smoky, spicy, and downright delicious. Trust me, you’re going to love this classic that’s as rich in history as it is in flavor.

Whether you’re making it for a lazy weekend brunch, a special dinner, or to impress guests with a true taste of the South, this recipe is a game-changer that’s surprisingly easy to pull together.

Why You’ll Love Authentic Southern Shrimp and Grits

Rich & Creamy: The grits are luxuriously smooth with a buttery finish that makes every bite melt in your mouth.

Savory & Spicy Shrimp: The shrimp are seasoned and cooked in a smoky, garlicky sauce with just the right kick.

One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal (and your company).

Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes without sacrificing any of the soul food goodness.

Customizable: Add bacon, cheese, or your favorite hot sauce to make it your own.

Ingredients in Authentic Southern Shrimp and Grits

Grits

Stone-ground for the best texture, cooked creamy with butter and cheese.

Shrimp

Medium-sized, peeled and deveined, seasoned with Cajun or Creole spices.

Bacon (optional)

Crispy bits that add smoky richness to the shrimp and sauce.

Garlic & Onion

A savory base that builds deep flavor in the pan.

Bell Pepper

Adds sweetness and a pop of color.

Chicken Broth

Used to cook the grits and in the shrimp sauce for added depth.

Cheddar Cheese

Melted into the grits for creamy, cheesy goodness.

Butter

For richness and silkiness in the grits and shrimp sauce.

Cajun or Creole Seasoning

Brings authentic Southern heat and flavor to the shrimp.

Lemon Juice

A splash to brighten the dish and balance the richness.

Green Onions

Freshly sliced for garnish and a little bite.

Salt & Pepper

To taste, rounding out all the flavors.

Instructions

Preheat Your Equipment

Bring your chicken broth to a simmer for cooking the grits.

Combine Ingredients

Cook the grits slowly in chicken broth with butter until creamy. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel

Use a large skillet or cast-iron pan for cooking the shrimp and sauce.

Assemble the Dish

Cook bacon until crispy, then set aside. In the same pan, sauté garlic, onion, and bell pepper until soft and fragrant.

Cook to Perfection

Add shrimp to the pan, season with Cajun spices, and cook until just pink and tender. Stir in lemon juice and bacon bits.

Finishing Touches

Serve the shrimp mixture hot over a generous bed of cheesy grits. Garnish with green onions and an extra pat of butter if you’re feeling indulgent.

Serve and Enjoy

Dig in with a cold glass of sweet tea or your favorite Southern-style beverage. This dish is a soulful celebration you won’t forget.

How to Serve Authentic Southern Shrimp and Grits

• With collard greens or sautéed spinach for a traditional Southern side.
• Accompanied by warm cornbread to soak up every bit of sauce.
• With a sprinkle of hot sauce or extra Cajun seasoning for those who like it spicy.

Additional Tips

• Use stone-ground grits for authentic texture; instant grits can be used in a pinch but won’t be quite the same.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp—tender and just pink is perfect.
• For extra smoky flavor, use smoked paprika or add a splash of liquid smoke.
• Leftovers reheat well on the stovetop with a splash of broth to loosen the grits.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Q2: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can make cheesy grits without shrimp or swap shrimp for sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.

Q3: What’s the difference between Cajun and Creole seasoning?
Cajun is usually spicier and more rustic, while Creole is milder with more herbs. Both work great here!

Q4: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Make the grits ahead and reheat gently. Cook shrimp fresh for best texture.

Q5: How spicy is this dish?
It depends on your seasoning—adjust the Cajun or Creole spice level to your preference.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approximately 400 kcal

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Conclusion

Authentic Southern Shrimp and Grits is more than a meal—it’s a heartfelt taste of Southern hospitality and tradition. Creamy, cheesy grits paired with spicy, savory shrimp make every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re a seasoned Southern cook or trying this classic for the first time, this recipe will warm your heart and satisfy your soul. Give it a go—you’ll be hooked!

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