Name: Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 4 cups water; 1 cup stone-ground grits; 1 cup whole milk; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped; 1 small onion, diced; 1/2 green bell pepper, diced; 1/2 red bell pepper, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 2 green onions, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; juice of 1/2 lemon

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If you’re searching for the ultimate Southern comfort food, look no further than this Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe. Showcasing plump, perfectly seasoned shrimp and lusciously cheesy grits, this dish is a celebration of color, texture, and soul-warming flavors. Whether you’re treating family for brunch or hosting friends on a cozy evening, you’ll find that every bite delivers a silky, savory experience with just the right amount of Cajun spice and a bright finish from fresh herbs and lemon. You’re in for a true taste of Lowcountry tradition, easily made right in your own kitchen!

Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe is how just a few well-chosen ingredients can build layers of flavor and creamy texture. Each component, from the smokiness of bacon to the richness of cheddar, plays a crucial role. Here’s what you need, and why you need it:

Stone-ground grits: These have a heartier texture and richer corn flavor than instant grits, making your base irresistibly creamy.
Whole milk: Adds body and creaminess to the grits, making them silky smooth without overpowering the flavor.
Unsalted butter: Gives the grits a luxurious mouthfeel and a little bit of nostalgic, buttery flavor.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully into the grits, delivering depth and tanginess in every spoonful.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing flavor and seasoning both the grits and the shrimp mixture.
Large shrimp: Fresh, succulent shrimp are the star protein, soaking up all the savory spices and sauce.
Thick-cut bacon: Offers richness, smokiness, and the perfect little crispy bites for crunch.
Onion: Forms a sweet, aromatic base for your shrimp and sauce.
Green and red bell pepper: Bring a pop of color and mild sweetness, balancing out the savory and spicy notes.
Garlic cloves: Deliver an earthy punch and unbeatable aroma—just a quick sauté and their flavor blooms.
Cajun seasoning: The key to authentic flavor with just the right zip of heat.
Smoked paprika: Introduces subtle smokiness and enhances the dish’s warm color.
Cayenne pepper: For those who like a little fire, it brings just the right level of heat.
Chicken broth: Lends savory depth and thins out the sauce so everything melds together smoothly.
Heavy cream: Where all the “creamy” magic really happens, tying the sauce together in rich, silky fashion.
Green onions and fresh parsley: Bright, fresh flavor and a burst of color on your plate.
Lemon juice: Brings acidity and brightness, rounding out the flavors for a sparkling finish.

How to Make Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Grits

Get things started by bringing water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Once bubbling, slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits, making sure to avoid lumps. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll notice the grits start thickening and developing that classic creamy texture. Stir in milk, butter, sharp cheddar, salt, and pepper, blending until everything is perfectly melty and smooth. Keep these grits warm—trust me, you’ll be sneaking tastes until the shrimp is ready!

Step 2: Crisp the Bacon

In a large skillet set over medium heat, cook the chopped thick-cut bacon until it’s perfectly crisp. This step not only creates those irresistible bacon bits to top your dish, but the rendered bacon drippings also become liquid gold for sautéing your vegetables. Remove the bacon and set it aside, but leave the drippings in the pan for maximum flavor payoff.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Now, toss the diced onion and both bell peppers into the hot skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re looking for softness and just a touch of caramelization—the base of that iconic shrimp and grits flavor. Add the minced garlic and cook for an extra 30 seconds, just until fragrant. The kitchen will smell heavenly at this point!

Step 4: Season and Cook the Shrimp

Pat your large shrimp dry, then season them generously with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and a hint of cayenne pepper. Add them to the skillet with your softened aromatics, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently. You’re watching for the shrimp to turn pink and opaque without getting rubbery. Quick and easy is the name of the game!

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, turning that skillet into a pan of pure luxury. Simmer everything together for about 2 minutes, letting the flavors combine and the sauce thicken just slightly. Now add a squeeze of lemon juice, sprinkle in the green onions and parsley, and return your crisped bacon to the skillet. Stir to coat the shrimp generously in the sauce, making sure each bite will be loaded with bright, rich flavor.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Spoon big, generous helpings of creamy grits into warm bowls, then ladle the shrimp and creamy sauce over the top. Finish with a sprinkle of extra green onions or a little more cheddar if you’re feeling indulgent. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture—it’s comfort food perfection!

How to Serve Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe

Garnishes

This Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe begs for a final flourish. Try a shower of chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of freshness. If you want extra decadence, sprinkle a bit more sharp cheddar or even a few crisped bacon bits before serving—you can never go wrong with more bacon!

Side Dishes

Round out your meal with simple Southern sides. Buttery sautéed greens, warm buttermilk biscuits, or a crisp green salad provide balance without outshining the main event. A chilled glass of white wine or classic sweet tea pairs beautifully with the gentle heat and creamy richness of this dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions or dinner parties, serve these shrimp and grits in small glasses or ramekins for a fun appetizer twist. Or, arrange on a large platter family-style and let everyone dig in. You might even consider a shrimp and grits bar, complete with toppings like extra herbs, hot sauce, or roasted tomatoes—let your guests make it their own!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the grits and shrimp mixture separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the best texture, as grits tend to absorb liquid over time and will thicken considerably.

Freezing

While grits are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them for up to 1 month if needed. Allow grits and shrimp to cool completely, then store in separate freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently for the best results.

Reheating

When ready to reheat, add a splash of milk to the grits and warm them in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth and creamy again. The shrimp mixture can be reheated in a skillet over gentle heat, adding a little broth or cream if the sauce needs loosening. Avoid microwaving the shrimp too long, as it can become rubbery.

FAQs

What makes this Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe authentic?

This recipe captures the spirit of Lowcountry cuisine Main Course.

Can I use instant grits instead of stone-ground?

While instant grits work in a pinch, stone-ground grits provide a superior texture and deeper corn flavor. They’re worth seeking out for the most authentic Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe experience.

How can I adjust the spice level?

Simply reduce or increase the amount of cayenne pepper and Cajun seasoning to suit your preference. If you like it extra mild, start with less and taste as you go—this dish is wonderfully customizable!

Is there a good substitute for heavy cream?

If you’d like a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, but keep in mind you may not achieve quite the same luxurious silkiness that defines the Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe.

What wine pairs best with this dish?

A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, or an unoaked Chardonnay all complement the flavors here. Their crispness and acidity balance the rich, creamy shrimp and grits perfectly.

Final Thoughts

I’m so excited for you to try this Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe—it’s pure Southern hospitality in a bowl! Whether for a cozy weeknight dinner or a celebratory brunch with loved ones, this dish never fails to comfort and impress. Give it a go, and let yourself be transported to the Lowcountry with every creamy, spicy bite!

Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe

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4.7 from 6 reviews

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

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Description

Indulge in this rich and creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits recipe, a Southern classic that combines the comfort of cheesy grits with flavorful Cajun-spiced shrimp topped with a savory cream sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner with loved ones.

Ingredients

Scale

For the grits:

4 cups water
1 cup stone-ground grits
1 cup whole milk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the shrimp:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 small onion, diced
1/2 green bell pepper, diced
1/2 red bell pepper, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 green onions, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
juice of 1/2 lemon

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Instructions

Prepare the grits: Bring water to a boil, whisk in grits, and cook until thickened. Stir in milk, butter, cheese, salt, and pepper. Keep warm.
Cook the shrimp: Cook bacon until crisp, set aside. Sauté onion and bell peppers, add garlic, then cook seasoned shrimp until pink. Pour in broth and cream, simmer until thickened. Add lemon juice, green onions, parsley, and bacon.
Serve: Spoon shrimp mixture over bowls of hot grits and enjoy!