What type of grits is best for this dish?

Stone-ground grits provide a creamy texture and authentic flavor, perfect for slow simmering with broth and cheese.

Can I substitute the shrimp with another protein?

Yes, scallops or chicken work well, but adjust cooking times to ensure tenderness.

Sauté minced garlic briefly in butter over medium heat to release aroma before adding scallions, parsley, and lemon juice.

Crisp greens or a light salad complement the richness, while Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager balances flavors.

Add cayenne pepper to the shrimp seasoning or a dash of hot sauce as a finishing touch for extra heat.

A Southern classic: tender shrimp sautéed in garlic butter, served atop creamy, cheesy grits—comforting, flavorful, and perfect for brunch or dinner.

I first tasted shrimp & grits on a family trip through Georgia: the creamy grits and buttery shrimp won everyone over instantly.

For the Grits: 1 cup stone-ground grits, 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or water), 1 cup whole milk, 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded), 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Shrimp: 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined), 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional), 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 2 tbsp olive oil
Garlic Butter Sauce: 4 tbsp unsalted butter, 4 cloves garlic (minced), 1/4 cup scallions (thinly sliced, plus extra for garnish), 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped), juice of 1/2 lemon

Prepare the Grits:: In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth and milk to a boil. Slowly whisk in grits. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 20–25 minutes until creamy and thickened.
Cheese and Seasoning:: Stir in cheddar cheese, butter, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste. Keep warm.
Season the Shrimp:: Season the shrimp with smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.
Sauté the Shrimp:: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Make Garlic Butter Sauce:: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add scallions and cook for 1 minute.
Finish:: Return shrimp to the skillet, add parsley and lemon juice, and toss to coat in garlic butter. Remove from heat.
To Serve:: Spoon grits into bowls, top with shrimp and garlic butter sauce. Garnish with extra scallions and parsley.

Whenever I make shrimp & grits, my kids hover near the stove just waiting for the first bowl. It always brings everyone to the table quickly.

Use a medium saucepan for grits, a large skillet for shrimp and sauce, plus a whisk, measuring cups/spoons, and a spatula for best results.

Contains shellfish (shrimp) and dairy (cheese, milk, butter); check chicken broth and cheese for gluten if sensitive.

Each serving contains about 480 calories, 25 g fat, 33 g carbohydrates, and 32 g protein.

This classic Southern meal turns any dinner into a celebration—savor its comforting flavors and share with loved ones soon.

→ What type of grits is best for this dish?: Stone-ground grits provide a creamy texture and authentic flavor, perfect for slow simmering with broth and cheese.
→ Can I substitute the shrimp with another protein?: Yes, scallops or chicken work well, but adjust cooking times to ensure tenderness.
→ How do I achieve a rich garlic butter sauce?: Sauté minced garlic briefly in butter over medium heat to release aroma before adding scallions, parsley, and lemon juice.
→ What sides pair well with this dish?: Crisp greens or a light salad complement the richness, while Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager balances flavors.
→ How can I make this dish spicier?: Add cayenne pepper to the shrimp seasoning or a dash of hot sauce as a finishing touch for extra heat.