The Best True Southern Shrimp and Grits
Indulge in creamy, cheesy grits topped with perfectly cooked shrimp in a savory, slightly spicy pan sauce. This comforting, family-friendly Southern dish is easy to make and packed with flavor.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 25
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Non-Vegan
Ingredients
5 strips bacon, diced
3 tablespoons cajun seasoning, divided
Olive oil
Salt, seasoned salt, and pepper to taste
1.5 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
5 tablespoons butter, divided
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 scallions, thinly sliced white and green parts
2 tablespoons Calabrian peppers crushed/paste + a spoonful of its oil
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1/3 cup chicken stock
1 tablespoon lemon juice, fresh squeezed
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons heavy cream
2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
3 cups chicken stock
1 cup quick grits (not instant)
3 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 ounces cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup sharp cheddar, shredded
3/4 cup pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
Instructions
Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat and render the bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside.
Add butter to the skillet and sauté the garlic, scallions, and red pepper flakes until fragrant.
Stir in Calabrian peppers and their oil, then deglaze the pan with chicken stock and lemon juice.
Toss shrimp with 1 tablespoon cajun seasoning, olive oil, salt, seasoned salt, and pepper. Add to the pan and cook until just firm, 2-3 minutes per side.
Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon cajun seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and heavy cream. Cook for another 2 minutes. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Add heavy cream, remaining 2 tablespoons butter, and the remaining 2.5 cups chicken stock to the pan. Bring to a simmer.
Add grits and cook, stirring frequently, until smooth and creamy. Cook for about 5 minutes.
Stir in cream cheese, cheddar, and pepper jack cheese. Continue cooking until the mixture is thick and creamy with melted cheese.
Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Ladle grits onto serving plates and top with the shrimp and sauce. Garnish with parsley and a sprinkling of scallions.
Notes
For a non-meat alternative, substitute bacon with toasted mushrooms or smoked paprika for the smoky flavor.
Quick grits are essential for a smooth, creamy texture.
Fresh herbs like thyme or dill could be used in place of parsley for a different flavor profile.