Description
Looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s hearty, flavorful, and fast? This Irresistible Shrimp and Grits recipe is a bold Southern classic made easy for any home cook. Featuring creamy stone-ground grits infused with cheddar and butter, topped with juicy shrimp seasoned to perfection, and finished with crispy bacon and scallions—this dish checks all the boxes. Whether you’re craving a quick breakfast, an easy dinner, or exploring new food ideas, this easy recipe is a must-try. It’s perfect for brunch, busy weeknights, or cozy weekends. Southern charm in one satisfying bowl!
Ingredients
1 cup stone-ground grits
2 cups chicken broth
2 cups whole milk
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons butter
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt and black pepper, to taste
4 slices thick-cut bacon
2 tablespoons chopped green onions
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
1. Dice and cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan.
2. In a saucepan, bring chicken broth and milk to a low boil. Slowly whisk in the grits. Reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring frequently until thick and tender.
3. Stir butter, cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper into the grits. Keep warm while preparing the shrimp.
4. Pat shrimp dry and season with paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
5. Heat the reserved bacon fat in the skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until opaque. Add garlic and lemon juice in the last minute of cooking.
6. To serve, spoon cheesy grits into bowls. Top with shrimp, crumbled bacon, and green onions. Serve hot.
Notes
For best results, use stone-ground grits—they’re creamier and more flavorful.
Don’t overcook the shrimp—they only need a few minutes!
Stir grits frequently to avoid clumping and burning at the bottom.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 780
- Fat: 28
- Saturated Fat: 14
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 32
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 28
- Cholesterol: 210
Keywords: easy dinner, comfort food, shrimp and grits, southern recipe, quick dinner, brunch idea