Go Back

Shrimp and Grits

A comforting and protein-rich dish featuring creamy, cheesy grits paired with succulent shrimp and crispy bacon, perfect for a quick and hearty meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Grits
  • 1 cup grits Use stone-ground grits for the best texture.
  • 4 cups water For cooking the grits.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Sharp cheddar offers the best flavor; feel free to explore other cheese varieties.
  • salt and pepper Salt and pepper to taste Essential for seasoning.
For the Shrimp Mixture
  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined Opt for fresh or frozen shrimp based on availability.
  • 4 slices bacon, diced Adds a crispy, smoky flavor; turkey bacon can be a healthier substitute.
  • 1/2 cup diced onion Enhances flavor; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
  • 1/2 cup diced bell pepper Adds sweetness and color; any pepper variety works.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Provides aromatic depth; garlic powder can be a quick alternative.
  • chopped green onions for garnish Adds fresh flavor and color; cilantro is a delightful substitute.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a pot, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil.
  2. Gradually stir in 1 cup of grits and reduce heat to low. Cook according to package instructions until thickened, usually around 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid lumps.
  3. Once grits are thick, fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Cooking
  1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook 4 slices of diced bacon until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the bacon, but leave those savory drippings in the pan.
  2. Add 1/2 cup of diced onion and 1/2 cup of diced bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until softened, roughly 5-7 minutes.
  3. Toss in 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp, cooking until they turn pink and opaque—approximately 4-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Spoon the shrimp mixture over the cheesy grits, topping with the crispy bacon and a sprinkle of chopped green onions.

Notes

Prep your onions, bell peppers, and shrimp beforehand to reduce cooking stress. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination. For added flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or lemon juice.