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Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe

Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe

4.7 from 30 reviews

A classic Lowcountry dish, Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits is a comforting Southern meal featuring creamy stone-ground grits topped with savory shrimp cooked with bacon and a blend of flavorful seasonings.

Ingredients

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For the grits:

  • 4 cups water
  • 1 cup stone-ground grits
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the shrimp:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 slices bacon (chopped)
  • 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 1/2 small onion (diced)
  • 1/2 green bell pepper (diced)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 green onions (sliced)
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon

Instructions

  1. For the grits: In a medium saucepan, bring water and salt to a boil. Stir in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 20–25 minutes or until thick and creamy. Stir in cream, cheese, and butter until smooth and combined. Keep warm.
  2. For the shrimp: Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add bacon and cook until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté onion and bell pepper for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add shrimp, cayenne, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Stir in lemon juice and cooked bacon. Remove from heat.
  3. Serving: Spoon the hot grits into bowls and top with shrimp mixture. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately.

Notes

  • You can substitute andouille sausage for bacon or add hot sauce for more kick.
  • Use quick grits for a faster version, but stone-ground grits deliver the best texture and flavor.

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