Description
Easy Shrimp and Grits is the ultimate Southern comfort-meets-elegance dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. Juicy, seasoned shrimp sit atop a bed of creamy, cheesy grits for a weeknight dinner or brunch that feels indulgent without being complicated. Whether you’re looking for easy dinner ideas, a quick yet satisfying meal, or classic food ideas with a bold twist—this easy recipe delivers flavor, texture, and comfort in every bite.
Ingredients
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup stone-ground grits
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tbsp unsalted butter (plus more for cooking shrimp)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika or Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 green onions, chopped
3 slices crispy bacon, crumbled (optional)
Instructions
1. Bring chicken broth to a boil in a saucepan.
2. Slowly whisk in grits, lower heat, and stir frequently until thickened.
3. Add butter, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese. Stir until creamy and smooth.
4. Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika or Cajun seasoning.
5. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sear shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink.
6. Add minced garlic to the skillet for the last 30 seconds, stirring to coat shrimp.
7. Plate the cheesy grits in bowls, top with shrimp, and drizzle with the pan sauce.
8. Garnish with green onions and crumbled bacon. Serve hot.
Notes
For extra flavor, use smoked paprika or a spicy Cajun blend.
Keep grits warm in a slow cooker if serving a crowd.
Reheat leftovers with a splash of broth or cream to restore texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 730mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Keywords: easy shrimp and grits, quick dinner, Southern food, seafood grits