Authentic Southern Shrimp and Grits

When you visit the Southern USA you have a try a bowl of this spicy dish! Some of the best comfort food comes from the American South and shrimp and grits ranks near the top! Shrimp and grits is true Low Country cuisine from coastal Carolina and Georgia. Imagine a spicy saucy shrimp with some creamy corn grits with cheese for a nice balance of flavor. This is a must try recipe and feel free to get creative. The grits are a blank canvas so add something spicy. Like cajun flavors? Add some spicy cajun style shrimp.

5 from 19 votes

Print Pin

Course: Main dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: authentic, Carolina, grits, low country, shrimp, southern, spicy

Prep Time: 20

Cook Time: 20

Total Time: 40

Servings: servings

Calories: 338kcal

Author: Analida Braeger

Ingredients

Grits Ingredients

1 cup grits
2 cups milk
1 ¼ cup vegetable broth
3 Tbsp. butter
1 cup cheddar

Shrimp Ingredients

12 oz. shrimp
1 slice bacon thick slices, diced
2 garlic cloves
1 onion small, sliced thinly
12 oz petite diced tomatoes
1 cup vegetable broth
½ Tsp. Kosher salt
¼ tsp. cayenne
1 dash cinnamon
4 Tbsp. parsley for garnish

Instructions

Grits Instructions:

Bring milk and vegetable broth to a boil, and slowly add the grits ¼ cup at a time. Stir frequently to avoid clumping.
Mix in the butter, and cook on low for about 20 minutes. (Now would be a good time to start the shrimp while to grits cook.)
After the grits have cooked for 20 minutes, toss in the cheese and stir to blend.

Shrimp Instructions:

In a small dish blend together salt, cayenne, and cinnamon.
Begin cooking bacon in a non-stick skillet.
Once the bacon begins to turn brown, add in the onion, and garlic and continue to cook until onion is translucent.
Toss in the shrimp, and cook until the shrimp starts to turn pink on both sides. Sprinkle with spice mixture while cooking.
Add in the tomatoes, and the vegetable broth.
Cook for 2-3 minutes.
Divide grits equally into 6 bowls, and top with shrimp.

Notes

Timing is key to this dish. Be sure to start the shrimp while the grits are simmering. When the grits are done, portion it out and top with the shrimp and sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How long can I store the shrimp and grits in the refrigerator? I would definitely store them separately. One container for the grits and another for the shrimp and sauce. Store the grits in an airtight container after they have cooled and they will last for 3 days in the refrigerator. You can reheat in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes but stop and stir about every 30-45 seconds. Add a little milk to soften them up for a smooth creamy consistency. The shrimp and sauce can be stored in an airtight container for 3 days in the refrigerator after they have cooled. Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until hot and stir every 30-45 seconds.
Can I freeze the grits? No, since the grits contain dairy they will separate when thawed and ruin the consistency.
Can I freeze the shrimp in the sauce? Yes, allow them to cool and you can freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator and then reheat in the microwave.

Nutrition