Southern Style Shrimp and Grits

Southern Style Shrimp and Grits is the kind of comfort food that warms your soul. Creamy, buttery grits serve as the base for perfectly seasoned shrimp sautéed with smoky spices and savory aromatics. Whether you’re making it for Sunday brunch or a cozy dinner, this iconic Southern dish is bold, hearty, and full of rich flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich & Flavorful – Creamy grits and spiced shrimp make every bite satisfying.
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes for a fast comfort meal.
Versatile – Perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner.
Classic Southern Comfort – A tried-and-true dish with authentic roots.
Family-Friendly – Mild yet flavorful, with easy ways to add heat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Grits:
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water or chicken broth (or a combo)
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup milk or heavy cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional, for cheesy grits)

For the Shrimp:
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Optional: ½ cup diced bell pepper or tomatoes

For Garnish:
• Chopped fresh parsley
• Crumbled turkey bacon or beef sausage (optional)
• Extra green onions
• Lemon wedges

Tools You’ll Need
• Medium saucepan (for grits)
• Large skillet (for shrimp)
• Whisk and spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Grits

1. In a medium saucepan, bring water or broth to a boil.
2. Stir in the grits and salt, reduce heat to low, and cover.
3. Cook for 15–20 minutes, whisking occasionally to prevent clumps.
4. When thick and tender, stir in milk, butter, and cheese (if using). Keep warm.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

1. In a bowl, toss shrimp with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
2. Let sit for 5–10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
4. Stir in lemon juice, green onions, and optional veggies. Cook just until everything is warmed and fragrant.

Step 4: Assemble & Serve

1. Spoon a generous portion of grits into a shallow bowl.
2. Top with shrimp and pan juices.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley, green onions, and lemon wedges.
4. Serve hot and enjoy that Southern comfort!

Tips for Perfect Shrimp and Grits
Use Stone-Ground Grits – They offer the best texture and flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – They cook quickly and turn rubbery if overdone.
Add Layers of Flavor – Cheese in the grits and lemon on the shrimp bring contrast and depth.
Customize – Add chopped turkey bacon, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flair.
Keep It Creamy – Add more milk or broth to adjust grits consistency to your liking.

Serving Suggestions
• Weekend Brunch – Pair with biscuits, fruit salad, and iced tea.
• Southern Dinner – Serve with greens, cornbread, or a side salad.
• Comfort Night – Enjoy as a cozy, one-bowl meal with a warm drink.
• Fancy Plate – Garnish with microgreens or a drizzle of hot sauce for presentation.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store shrimp and grits separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

Reheating:
Grits: Reheat on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk or broth to loosen.
Shrimp: Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave just until warmed—don’t overcook.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use quick or instant grits?
Yes, but they won’t have the same depth of flavor and texture as stone-ground. Adjust cooking time as needed.

2. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Use plant-based milk and butter, and skip the cheese.

3. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely—just thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning.

4. What’s a good vegetarian version?
Replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or tofu and use veggie broth for the grits.

Final Thoughts
Southern Style Shrimp and Grits is a timeless comfort dish that brings warmth and flavor to the table. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just need a little comfort food magic, this hearty meal delivers every time. With creamy grits, succulent shrimp, and soulful seasoning, it’s Southern hospitality in every bite.

Try it out and share your thoughts! Don’t forget to tag your creations and leave a review.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Southern American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 of 4):
Calories: 420 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 34g | Fat: 20g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 680mg

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