Get ready to fall in love with Spicy Southern Shrimp & Grits, an iconic comfort dish that sings with bold Cajun flavors and irresistible creaminess. Plump, perfectly seasoned shrimp mingle with smoky bacon, colorful peppers, and velvety cheddar grits in every bite, making this meal both a celebration of the South and an easy weeknight favorite. Whether you’re hoping to impress guests or simply treat yourself to something warm and satisfying, there’s truly nothing like a steaming bowl of Spicy Southern Shrimp & Grits to brighten your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every part of Spicy Southern Shrimp & Grits plays an important role, from the sharp cheese that melts into golden grits to bacon that lends irresistible richness. These familiar, easy-to-find staples make the flavor pop and the texture extra luscious—let’s break it down!
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Choose the freshest you can find for the sweetest, juiciest bites.
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: This is the soul of the dish; don’t be shy, and try your favorite blend for a personalized heat.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for sautéing and preventing sticking while adding smoothness.
- 4 slices bacon (chopped): Smoky, savory, and absolutely essential for that classic Southern depth of flavor.
- 1 small onion (diced): Adds a sweet, aromatic backbone to the shrimp and grits topping.
- 1/2 green bell pepper (diced): Lends fresh crunch and vibrant color to the skillet.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Brings a punchy, irresistible aroma to the whole dish.
- 1 cup stone-ground grits: For the creamiest, most authentic base, stone-ground is the way to go.
- 4 cups water or chicken broth: Broth ups the savory notes, while water lets the cheese and cream shine through.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: A splash of decadence gives your grits that signature silkiness.
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded): The sharpness cuts the richness and creates creamy, gooey magic.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds even more richness and helps the grits feel extra luxurious.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Turn up the heat if you love a little burn!
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Simple, classic seasonings that let all the flavors harmonize.
- Chopped green onions for garnish: Fresh, zesty, and perfect for balancing all the richness.
- Hot sauce for serving (optional): A finishing drizzle that makes this dish truly your own—go bold or keep it mild!
How to Make Spicy Southern Shrimp & Grits
Step 1: Cook the Grits
Start by bringing 4 cups of water or chicken broth to a gentle boil in a medium saucepan. This is where your Spicy Southern Shrimp & Grits foundation takes shape! Slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits, then reduce the heat to low and let things simmer. Cook uncovered for about 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally so the grits don’t stick to the bottom—patience makes them creamy and perfectly thick.
Step 2: Add Creaminess to the Grits
Once the grits have thickened nicely, stir in the butter, heavy cream, and sharp cheddar cheese. This step is pure magic—the heat melts everything together, transforming plain grits into a velvety, cheesy masterpiece. Add a pinch of salt, black pepper, and cayenne if you like a little extra zing. Keep the grits warm while you move on to the shrimp: they’ll stay luscious and ready for topping.
Step 3: Prep and Season the Shrimp
While the grits work their magic, pat your shrimp dry and toss them with the Cajun seasoning, ensuring every piece is generously coated. This lets those Southern spices cling, guaranteeing flavor in every juicy bite. Don’t be afraid to let them rest for a minute—the spices will bloom and soak into the shrimp.
Step 4: Cook the Bacon and Vegetables
Set a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chopped bacon until crisp and golden. Transfer bacon to a plate, keeping the delicious drippings in the pan for extra flavor. Add your olive oil, then sauté diced onion and bell pepper in the skillet, stirring for about three minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. Toss in the minced garlic for just 30 seconds—don’t let it burn or it will turn bitter!
Step 5: Sauté the Shrimp
Turn up the excitement by adding the seasoned shrimp right into that flavorful pan. Cook each side for two to three minutes, or until they turn beautifully pink and lightly curled. Be careful not to overcook—the shrimp should stay tender and juicy. Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and give everything a gentle stir so all those flavors come together perfectly.
Step 6: Serve It Up
It’s time for the grand assembly! Spoon those creamy cheddar grits into hearty bowls, then pile the saucy shrimp mixture right on top. This vibrant, fragrant combo is what makes Spicy Southern Shrimp & Grits completely unforgettable. Finish with plenty of chopped green onions and an optional splash of hot sauce for that extra pop!
How to Serve Spicy Southern Shrimp & Grits
Garnishes
A flourish of chopped green onions is essential for blushes of color and fresh flavor. Consider an extra grind of black pepper, or a little more shredded cheddar if you want even more gooeyness on top. And for heat-lovers, a few dashes of hot sauce at the table carries this classic right to the next level.
Side Dishes
Spicy Southern Shrimp & Grits pairs beautifully with classic Southern sides—think sautéed greens, a vinegary slaw, or even roasted okra for a little crunch. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a crisp garden salad with heirloom tomatoes and a zesty vinaigrette fits perfectly alongside all that richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling playful? Try serving individual portions in mini bowls or martini glasses for an appetizer twist at parties. You can also serve the shrimp mixture over grits cakes for a fun, fork-ready finger food. However you style it, Spicy Southern Shrimp & Grits always looks right at home on a well-set brunch table!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Spicy Southern Shrimp & Grits (lucky you!), store the shrimp and grits separately in airtight containers. This helps prevent the shrimp from getting rubbery and keeps the grits creamy. Leftovers will keep for up to three days in the refrigerator, making for a fantastic next-day meal.
Freezing
Grits freeze remarkably well—just cool them completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Shrimp, however, are best enjoyed fresh; if you need to freeze, do it separately to maintain their texture. Thaw both overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
For best results, reheat grits slowly on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or water and stirring until creamy. Shrimp should be reheated briefly in a skillet or microwave just until warmed through; overcooking will make them tough. Combine just before serving for the freshest-tasting Spicy Southern Shrimp & Grits.
FAQs
Can I use quick grits instead of stone-ground?
Absolutely! While stone-ground grits offer unbeatable texture and flavor, quick grits work in a pinch if you’re short on time. Just adjust cooking time according to the package instructions and remember, add extra cheese or cream for richness.
What’s the best way to adjust the spiciness?
The easiest way to control the heat in Spicy Southern Shrimp & Grits is by choosing your Cajun seasoning wisely—some blends are milder, some quite fiery. Leave out the cayenne, and add hot sauce at the table so everyone can customize their own bowls.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You sure can! Swap the cream and butter for your favorite dairy-free options, and use a plant-based cheese. Choose chicken broth instead of cream for the grits, and the flavor will still shine through.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Definitely! Make the grits and shrimp topping ahead of time and store them separately. Assembly is quick and easy when you’re ready to eat, making Spicy Southern Shrimp & Grits a tasty, fuss-free weekday lunch or dinner.
What if I don’t have bacon?
No worries—the bacon adds lovely flavor, but you can use smoked sausage, ham, or just olive oil if you prefer. Add a dash of smoked paprika to mimic that savory depth, and your Spicy Southern Shrimp & Grits will still be a hit.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite as satisfying as sharing Spicy Southern Shrimp & Grits with family or friends. It packs all the soul and warmth of Southern cooking into every colorful spoonful. If you’ve never made shrimp and grits at home, this is your sign to try—it’s easier than you think, and it just might become your most-requested comfort meal!
Print
Spicy Southern Shrimp & Grits Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a taste of the South with this flavorful Spicy Southern Shrimp & Grits recipe. Creamy, cheesy grits topped with Cajun-seasoned shrimp, bacon, and a medley of vegetables create a dish that’s hearty and satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Grits:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For Serving:
- Chopped green onions for garnish
- Hot sauce for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Grits: Bring water or broth to a boil, add grits, and cook for 20–25 minutes. Stir in butter, cream, cheese, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Keep warm.
- Cook the Shrimp: Season shrimp with Cajun seasoning. Cook bacon until crisp, then sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Add shrimp and cook until pink. Stir in bacon.
- Assemble: Spoon creamy grits into bowls, top with shrimp mixture, and garnish with green onions. Serve with hot sauce if desired.
Notes
- For creamier grits, use milk instead of water. Add extra cayenne or hot sauce for more heat. Try a dash of smoked paprika for added flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 970mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
