Shrimp & Creamy Cheddar Grits : A Southern Classic with Bold, Modern Flavor
This Shrimp & Creamy Cheddar Grits dish takes a Southern favorite and gives it a deliciously modern edge. Buttery, sharp cheddar grits form the perfect base for tender shrimp sautéed with garlic, spices, and a hint of lemon. It’s rich, comforting, and comes together fast—perfect for brunch, dinner, or whenever you crave soul-warming food with a little kick.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 25 min
- Total Time: 35 min
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
For the grits:
1 cup stone-ground grits
4 cups water or low-sodium broth
1/2 cup milk (optional, for extra creaminess)
1 tbsp butter
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Salt & pepper to taste
For the shrimp:
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Pinch of cayenne (optional)
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Salt & pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish
Instructions
In a saucepan, bring water (and milk if using) to a boil. Slowly whisk in grits.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook 20–25 mins, stirring often, until thick and creamy.
Stir in butter, cheddar, salt, and pepper. Keep warm.
Meanwhile, heat oil or butter in a skillet. Add garlic and cook 30 secs.
Toss in shrimp with paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook 2–3 mins per side until pink.
Squeeze lemon juice over shrimp.
Spoon grits into bowls, top with shrimp, and garnish with parsley or green onion.
Nutrition
- Calories: 430
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 30g