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Plate of Easy Shrimp and Grits with creamy cheese grits and sautéed shrimp

Easy Shrimp and Grits

A comforting dish featuring creamy grits and perfectly cooked shrimp, perfect for busy weeknights while still feeling special.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 480
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the grits
  • 1 cup grits (stone ground or quick) For the best flavor and texture, stone ground is recommended.
  • 4 cups water or broth Use a mix of water and milk for creaminess.
  • Salt Salt the cooking liquid for flavor.
  • 2 to 4 tablespoons butter Adds creaminess and richness at the end.
  • Cheese (optional) Cheddar is a classic choice.
For the shrimp
  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined Pat dry to avoid steaming.
  • Seasoning (salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder) Adjust to taste.
  • Butter, bacon fat, or olive oil For cooking shrimp.
  • Garlic (optional but highly recommended) Adds great flavor.
  • A squeeze of lemon For brightness.

Method
 

Preparing the Grits
  1. In a pot, combine water (or broth) and grits, and bring to a boil.
  2. Reduce heat and stir frequently for about 5 minutes.
  3. Once thickened, reduce the stirring frequency and cook for 20-30 minutes (or according to package instructions) until creamy.
  4. Finish with butter and adjust seasoning with salt.
Cooking the Shrimp
  1. Heat butter or olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Season shrimp and pat them dry.
  3. Cook shrimp for 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and curl.
  4. Add a splash of broth or water to deglaze the pan and scrape up any browned bits for added flavor.
Serving
  1. Spoon creamy grits into bowls, top with shrimp, and drizzle with the pan sauce.
  2. Optional: Garnish with chopped scallions or parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Notes

Serve in bowls for a casual yet comforting feel. You can add a fried egg for brunch style. Allowing grits to cool and reheating with milk will bring back creaminess if made ahead.