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This Southern Shrimp and Grits recipe is a true comfort food classic, filled with indulgent flavors and creamy textures. The creamy, cheesy grits are topped with perfectly seasoned shrimp, crispy bacon, and drizzled with a flavorful buttery sauce made from the pan drippings. It’s a perfect dish for a hearty brunch or dinner, showcasing the best of southern cooking with its smoky, spicy, and creamy elements.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the shrimp and pan sauce:

1.5 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
5 strips bacon, diced
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 scallions, thinly sliced (white and green parts)
2 tablespoons Calabrian chili paste or chopped Calabrian chilies (substitute with harissa, chili crisp, or any chili in oil)
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1/3 cup chicken stock
1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons heavy cream
2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley

For the cheesy grits:

3 cups chicken stock
1 cup quick grits (avoid 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, shredded
Salt and pepper, to taste

For Cajun seasoning:

1 tablespoon paprika
1.5 tsp salt
1.5 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp chili powder
3/4 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp brown sugar
1/2 tsp cayenne powder
1/4 tsp freshly cracked pepper

Directions

Prepare the grits: Boil chicken stock in a pot over medium-high heat. Slowly add in the grits, whisking constantly to avoid clumps. Reduce the heat and cook until tender (about 5 minutes). Stir in butter, heavy cream, cream cheese, and both types of shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Keep warm.
Cook the bacon: In a large pan, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside on paper towels. Reserve half of the bacon drippings in a separate bowl and leave the rest in the pan.
Cook the shrimp: Toss the shrimp in olive oil and coat with Cajun seasoning. Cook the shrimp in the bacon fat over medium-high heat until they are opaque and cooked through, about 4 minutes. Remove the shrimp and tent with foil to keep warm.
Make the pan sauce: In the same pan, add butter, garlic, and scallions. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant. Add the reserved Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes, Calabrian chili paste, and cook for 1 more minute. Pour in chicken stock, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and heavy cream, whisking to combine. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly.
Assemble the dish: Spoon the cheesy grits into bowls. Top with the cooked shrimp and spoon over the pan sauce. Garnish with crispy bacon and fresh parsley.

Nutritional Value (approximate per serving)

Calories: 600-700 kcal
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 40g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 250mg
Sodium: 900mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Vitamin A: 20% of daily value
Vitamin C: 20% of daily value
Calcium: 15% of daily value
Iron: 10% of daily value

These values may vary based on portion size, specific ingredients used, and modifications made to the recipe.

The Role of the Grits

At the heart of this dish is the creamy, cheesy grits. Grits are a beloved Southern staple, and when prepared correctly, they can be the ultimate comfort food. In this recipe, the grits are made with chicken stock, heavy cream, butter, and cream cheese, which results in a rich and indulgent texture. The addition of sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheese brings a burst of flavor that complements the shrimp and pan sauce perfectly. The creamy base of the grits provides a smooth and satisfying contrast to the crisp shrimp and bacon, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. It’s important to use quick grits (rather than instant grits) to achieve the ideal consistency and texture, ensuring that the grits are tender yet still hold their shape when served.

The Cajun Seasoning: A Flavorful Kick

The Cajun seasoning in this recipe is the secret to the bold, savory flavor of the shrimp. This homemade blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, thyme, oregano, brown sugar, cayenne, and freshly cracked black pepper brings a balance of smokiness, heat, and depth to the shrimp. The seasoning coats the shrimp perfectly, infusing them with flavor that is both aromatic and spicy. The combination of Cajun seasoning and the addition of Calabrian chili paste or chopped chilies elevates the dish with a touch of heat that enhances the overall flavor profile without overpowering it.

The Shrimp: Juicy and Flavorful

Shrimp is the star of this dish, and the way it is cooked makes all the difference. Tossing the shrimp in olive oil and Cajun seasoning ensures they are coated in flavor before hitting the pan. Cooking them in the rendered bacon fat adds an extra layer of richness and smokiness, while keeping them juicy and tender. The shrimp cook quickly, usually in about 4 minutes, and they should be opaque and perfectly cooked through, without being overdone. Once cooked, the shrimp are set aside to keep warm, ready to be served atop the cheesy grits.

The Smoky Bacon: A Crunchy Delight

Crispy bacon is an essential element in this recipe, offering a satisfying crunch and a smoky, salty contrast to the creamy grits and tender shrimp. The bacon is cooked until crispy and then crumbled or chopped into bits, which are sprinkled over the dish just before serving. The bacon drippings are used to cook the shrimp, contributing even more flavor to the dish. The bacon not only adds texture but also helps to enhance the richness of the pan sauce, which is made from the remaining drippings.

The Pan Sauce: Rich and Flavorful

The pan sauce is the finishing touch that elevates the entire dish. After cooking the shrimp and bacon, the same pan is used to create a rich, flavorful sauce with all the delicious remnants from the pan. Butter, garlic, and scallions are sautéed in the pan, followed by the addition of Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes, and Calabrian chili paste. These ingredients come together to create a spicy, savory base for the sauce. The chicken stock, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and heavy cream are added to create a smooth, velvety sauce that ties the entire dish together. As the sauce simmers, it thickens slightly, making it perfect for drizzling over the shrimp and grits.

Assembling the Dish

Assembling Southern Shrimp and Grits is as simple as spooning the creamy, cheesy grits into bowls, topping them with the seasoned shrimp, and then spooning the flavorful pan sauce over everything. The final touch is the crispy bacon and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, which adds color and an extra layer of flavor. The bacon adds crunch and saltiness, while the parsley provides a fresh, bright contrast to the richness of the dish. Serve the shrimp and grits with a wedge of lemon on the side for a burst of citrus that will balance out the richness and add a fresh note to each bite.

Pairing Suggestions for Southern Shrimp and Grits

Southern Shrimp and Grits is a rich and indulgent dish, so it pairs beautifully with lighter, refreshing sides. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a fresh coleslaw can provide a crisp, refreshing contrast to the creamy grits. For a more hearty side, sautéed greens like spinach, collard greens, or kale would work well, as their slightly bitter taste will help balance out the richness of the dish. A slice of warm, buttered cornbread would also be an excellent accompaniment, providing additional Southern flavor and texture. For drinks, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer like a pilsner would complement the flavors of the shrimp and grits nicely.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

Southern Shrimp and Grits is the perfect example of a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent, yet simple enough to make at home. The creamy, cheesy grits, smoky bacon, and perfectly seasoned shrimp are a combination that will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. The rich, flavorful pan sauce ties everything together, creating a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. Whether you’re preparing it for a weekend brunch, a weeknight dinner, or a special occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. It’s the ultimate Southern comfort food, combining bold flavors and creamy textures in every bite.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Southern Shrimp and Grits is a flavorful and indulgent dish that showcases the best of Southern cuisine. With creamy, cheesy grits, perfectly seasoned shrimp, smoky bacon, and a rich pan sauce, this dish offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that make each bite a delight. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home. Whether you’re a Southern food enthusiast or simply looking to try something new, this dish is sure to become a favorite.