Southern-Style Shrimp and Grits: A Comfort Food Classic

Few dishes embody Southern comfort like shrimp and grits. Creamy, buttery grits paired with perfectly seasoned shrimp in a rich, smoky sauce—it’s the ultimate balance of flavor and texture. Whether you’re making it for a weekend brunch, a cozy dinner, or just craving a true taste of the South, this guide will show you how to cook restaurant-quality shrimp and grits at home.

And if you want to save time, check out our Shrimp & Grits Kits for easy, foolproof ways to bring this Southern classic to your table.

Ingredients for Shrimp and Grits

For the Grits:

• 1 cup stone-ground grits (or try:4 cups water or chicken broth
  • Ragin’ Cajun Authentic Shrimp & Grits Mix – Quick and flavorful
  • Cookin’ Cajun Shrimp & Grits Mix (7.5oz) – Easy, no-fail grits)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound peeled & deveined shrimp (16/20 count)
• 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama Original Cajun Seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Grits

1. In a medium saucepan, bring water or chicken broth to a boil.
2. Stir in grits and reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Once thick and creamy, stir in butter and cheddar cheese (if using).
4. Keep warm while preparing the shrimp.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon and Vegetables

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pan.
2. Add diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. Season the shrimp with Slap Ya Mama Cajun Seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
2. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
3. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, chicken broth, and heavy cream (if using). Let simmer for 2 minutes to thicken.
4. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and stir in crispy bacon.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. Spoon warm grits into bowls.
2. Top with the shrimp and sauce mixture.
3. Garnish with chopped green onions and extra bacon.

Tips for the Best Shrimp and Grits

• Use High-Quality Shrimp – The fresher the shrimp, the better the flavor. Try Creole Foods Peeled & Deveined Shrimp for a quick and easy option.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – Shrimp cook fast! Overcooking makes them rubbery, so keep a close eye on them.
• Flavor Boost – Adding Louisiana Fish Fry Trinity Shake gives your dish an extra layer of authentic Southern flavor.
• Grits Matter – For the creamiest results, use Ragin’ Cajun Authentic Shrimp & Grits Mix for easy, no-fail grits.

Get Everything You Need for the Best Shrimp and Grits

Make this dish even easier with these hand-picked ingredients:

• Ragin’ Cajun Authentic Shrimp & Grits Mix – A simple, flavorful way to make shrimp and grits
• 1lb Bag of 16/20 Peeled & Deveined Shrimp – Perfect for quick, easy prep
• Cookin’ Cajun Shrimp & Grits Mix (7.5oz) – A great option for creamy, seasoned grits
• Slap Ya Mama Original Cajun Seasoning (16oz) – The perfect seasoning for bold, Southern flavors
• Louisiana Fish Fry Trinity Shake (4.1oz) – Adds depth to shrimp, grits, and sauce

Enjoy a Southern Classic: Shrimp and Grits

Now that you have the perfect shrimp and grits recipe, it’s time to grab your ingredients and start cooking. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just craving classic Southern comfort food, this dish will impress every time.

So fire up the stove, cook up some creamy grits, and enjoy a taste of Louisiana today.