Name: Spicy Southern Shrimp Grits Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 cup stone-ground grits; 4 cups water or chicken broth; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and black pepper to taste; 4 slices bacon, chopped; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 tablespoons chopped green onions; Hot sauce (optional, to taste)

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If there’s one dish that captures Southern comfort and bold flavor in every bite, it’s the Spicy Southern Shrimp Grits Recipe. Imagine smoky shrimp laced with just the right kick of heat, nestled atop a creamy, cheesy bed of stone-ground grits—this is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table. Whether you’re looking to impress at brunch or crave a cozy dinner, this recipe strikes that irresistible balance between decadent and down-home. Trust me, once you taste this Southern classic with its spicy twist, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.

Spicy Southern Shrimp Grits Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about how wonderfully straightforward these ingredients are. Each one has a special role, working together for a dish that’s bursting with color, texture, and tons of flavor. Gather these essentials and you’ll be well on your way to a stunning Spicy Southern Shrimp Grits Recipe.

Large shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined): The star of the dish, offering sweet, succulent bites that soak up all that spicy seasoning.
Stone-ground grits (1 cup): These make the creamiest, most comforting base that holds up beautifully to the bold toppings.
Water or chicken broth (4 cups): Using broth amps up the flavor, while water keeps things classic and simple.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup): Sharp cheddar melts into the grits for extra richness and a tangy backbone.
Heavy cream (1/2 cup): The secret to luscious, ultra-creamy grits you can’t stop eating.
Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds depth and silky texture to both the grits and shrimp.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Great for sautéing onions and infusing the dish with subtle fruity notes.
Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Lends wonderful smokiness and color to the spiced shrimp.
Cayenne pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Brings on that irresistible heat; adjust for your spice preference!
Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon): For extra warmth and even a little pop of color.
Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Provides mellow, savory flavor that plays perfectly with shrimp.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning each layer of this dish.
Bacon, chopped (4 slices): Adds irresistible crunch and smoky flavor as a topping.
Small onion, finely chopped: Delivers sweetness and complexity to the shrimp mixture.
Garlic, minced (1 clove): Fresh garlic brings out the best in the shrimp and grits alike.
Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): A splash at the end perks up all the flavors.
Chopped green onions (2 tablespoons, for garnish): Sprinkle for freshness and a pop of color.
Hot sauce (optional, to taste): If you love even more heat, don’t be shy!

How to Make Spicy Southern Shrimp Grits Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Grits

Start by bringing your water or chicken broth to a gentle boil in a medium saucepan. Once it’s ready, stir in the grits and immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let those grits cook low and slow for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring every now and then to keep them smooth. When they’re thick and creamy, stir in the cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and a tablespoon of butter. Season generously with salt and black pepper, cover the pan, and keep those grits warm while you tackle the shrimp.

Step 2: Crisp the Bacon and Sauté the Aromatics

Grab your largest skillet and cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s perfectly crisp—resist the urge to nibble! Once crispy, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels, keeping about a tablespoon of the bacon fat in the pan. Add olive oil, then toss in the chopped onion. Sauté for about three minutes until soft and slightly golden. Next, add the minced garlic and stir for another 30 seconds—just enough to let it bloom.

Step 3: Season and Cook the Shrimp

Pat those shrimp dry and toss them with the smoked paprika, cayenne, crushed red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add them to your hot skillet, making sure they’re in a single layer. Let them cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they’re gloriously pink and just opaque. Stir in the lemon juice and the last tablespoon of butter for a silky, tangy finish that coats each shrimp perfectly.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

To pull it all together, spoon the warm, cheesy grits into bowls. Top with the spicy shrimp and that savory onion mixture from the skillet. Sprinkle generously with the crisped bacon and finish with a shower of chopped green onions. If you love an extra punch, give your bowl a good dousing of your favorite hot sauce and serve it all up piping hot. Your Spicy Southern Shrimp Grits Recipe masterpiece is ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Spicy Southern Shrimp Grits Recipe

Garnishes

Part of the Southern charm is how you finish the plate. Bacon and green onions bring salty crunch and freshness, while a few shakes of hot sauce wake up the whole bowl. For a little twist, try adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a lemon wedge on the side—it brightens everything up and looks beautiful.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty enough to shine on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, think light and crisp. A simple green salad with a citrusy vinaigrette, sautéed seasonal greens, or even roasted asparagus are perfect partners that keep things balanced without stealing the spotlight from your Spicy Southern Shrimp Grits Recipe.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress at your next brunch? Serve this dish in tiny glasses or cups for an elegant appetizer twist, or scoop it into mini cast-iron skillets for that authentic Southern flair. Layering the shrimp over the grits in a shallow bowl lets those gorgeous colors and textures shine—perfect for a dinner party or a cozy night in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store the shrimp and grits separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the flavors fresh and ensures the grits don’t get overly thick or mushy from sitting with the shrimp.

Freezing

Grits can be frozen if you have more than you’ll eat over a couple of days. Simply spoon the cooled grits into a freezer-safe bag or container. Shrimp, however, are best enjoyed fresh; freezing and reheating can change their texture. If you must freeze the shrimp, do so separately and thaw gently in the fridge before reheating for the best result.

Reheating

To revive your grits, warm them gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or water to bring back their creamy consistency. For the shrimp, a quick sauté in a pan over low heat is best to avoid overcooking. Bringing each element back to life separately ensures your Spicy Southern Shrimp Grits Recipe tastes just as delicious the next day.

FAQs

Can I use quick grits instead of stone-ground?

Absolutely! Quick grits will cook up faster, though you’ll miss a bit of the rustic texture stone-ground gives. Adjust the liquid ratio and cooking time according to the package, and you’ll still have a tasty version of this Spicy Southern Shrimp Grits Recipe.

How can I make this recipe less spicy?

If you prefer less heat, simply reduce or omit the cayenne and red pepper flakes. You’ll still get plenty of flavor from the smoked paprika and garlic powder, resulting in a milder—but equally comforting—shrimp and grits.

What can I substitute for bacon to make it pescatarian?

Try smoked paprika-roasted mushrooms or a sprinkle of toasted pecans to add texture and a touch of smoky flavor. These options keep the Spicy Southern Shrimp Grits Recipe entirely pescatarian-friendly and still delicious.

Can I make the grits ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the grits a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Before serving, gently reheat with a splash of milk or cream, whisking to bring them back to their silky consistency. Freshly cooked shrimp is best, so make that component just before serving.

Is there a dairy-free version?

To make this recipe dairy-free, swap the cheddar for your favorite plant-based cheese and use coconut cream or any unsweetened non-dairy creamer in the grits. Your Spicy Southern Shrimp Grits Recipe will still be rich, creamy, and full of spice!

Final Thoughts

If you’re hungry for big flavors and serious comfort, you have to give this Spicy Southern Shrimp Grits Recipe a try. It’s cozy, vibrant, and packed with everything we love about Southern cooking. I can’t wait for you to dig in and make this dish a regular at your table!

Spicy Southern Shrimp Grits Recipe

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4.9 from 21 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Spicy Southern Shrimp Grits recipe combines creamy stone-ground grits with perfectly seasoned shrimp for a delicious and comforting meal with a kick of spice.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Grits:

1 cup stone-ground grits
4 cups water or chicken broth
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Shrimp:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste

For Garnish:

4 slices bacon, chopped
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped green onions
Hot sauce (optional, to taste)

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Instructions

Prepare the Grits: In a medium saucepan, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Stir in the grits and cook until thick and creamy. Stir in cheese, cream, and butter. Season with salt and pepper.
Cook the Bacon: In a skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Set aside. Sauté onion and garlic in the skillet.
Cook the Shrimp: Season shrimp and cook in the skillet until pink and opaque. Stir in lemon juice and butter.
Serve: Spoon cheesy grits into bowls, top with shrimp mixture, bacon, and green onions. Add hot sauce if desired.