Name: Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 cup stone-ground grits; 4 cups water; 1 cup milk; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 4 slices thick-cut bacon (chopped); 1 small bell pepper (diced); 1 small onion (diced); 2 garlic cloves (minced); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; juice of 1/2 lemon

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If you’re craving bold flavors and Southern comfort in every bite, look no further than this Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe. Imagine tender, juicy shrimp coated in zesty Cajun spices, piled high atop a creamy bed of cheesy grits, with crispy bacon and vibrant bell peppers adding the perfect savory kick. This dish is pure joy in a bowl—hearty, comforting, and layered with just the right amount of heat. Whether you’re making a weekend brunch or a weeknight dinner to impress, this recipe transforms the humble classic into a soul-satisfying feast you’ll want to make again and again.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this dish is that you don’t need a complicated shopping list—just a handful of simple, high-quality ingredients that work together to bring out irresistible texture, color, and flavor. Here’s what you need to gather for the Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe, with tips for getting the most out of each component.

Stone-ground grits (1 cup): These give the grits their hearty, rustic texture—quick-cooking grits just won’t compare for authentic creaminess.
Water (4 cups): The base for perfectly cooked grits, helping achieve the right consistency.
Milk (1 cup): Adds extra creaminess and a subtle sweetness to the grits.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning both the grits and the finished dish—don’t skip it!
Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Brings a rich, silky finish to the grits.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup): Your secret weapon for decadently cheesy, flavorful grits—use a high-quality cheddar if possible.
Large shrimp, peeled and deveined (1 pound): The star of the show—fresh, plump shrimp absorb all those feisty spices.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps everything sauté up beautifully in the pan—add more as needed if your bacon isn’t super fatty.
Cajun seasoning (1 tablespoon): Packs in Southern flavor with a kick—choose your favorite blend or make it homemade.
Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds depth and smoky undertones to the shrimp.
Cayenne pepper (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For those who dare to turn up the heat!
Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Lends savory, aromatic notes to the shrimp’s seasoning.
Thick-cut bacon, chopped (4 slices): Brings smoky, salty crunch and its luscious drippings flavor the whole dish.
Bell pepper, diced (1 small): Adds a pop of sweetness and color—use red, yellow, or orange for extra vibrancy.
Onion, diced (1 small): Builds a gentle savory foundation for the shrimp and veggies.
Garlic cloves, minced (2): Gives everything an irresistible garlicky aroma.
Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons): Brightens the finished dish with a fresh, herby lift.
Lemon juice (juice of 1/2 lemon): Added at the end, its tartness balances the richness and spice.

How to Make Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Step 1: Make the Creamy Cheddar Grits

Start by bringing water and milk to a gentle boil in a medium saucepan. As soon as those first exciting bubbles appear, whisk in the salt and grits. The moment the grits hit the liquid, give everything a good stir to prevent clumping, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer, stirring often, for 20 to 25 minutes until the grits are luxuriously thick and tender. At the end, stir in the butter and sharp cheddar—it should melt smoothly into a dreamy, creamy base that’s ready to catch all those spicy shrimp juices.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

While the grits are cooking, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, a touch of cayenne (if you’re craving heat), and garlic powder in a mixing bowl. Get in there and coat every shrimp generously—the spices are what make the Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe so unforgettable!

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add your chopped bacon. Cook until it’s gloriously crispy, stirring occasionally to ensure all sides render their smoky flavor. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, but leave those drippings in the pan—they’re culinary gold for the flavors ahead.

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

If the pan looks a bit dry, add a drizzle of olive oil. Toss in the diced onion and bell pepper, and let them sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Next, stir in the minced garlic for just 30 seconds; the quick burst in the pan will mellow the garlic and fill your kitchen with irresistible aroma.

Step 5: Cook the Spiced Shrimp

Now, add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, just until the shrimp turn pink, opaque, and curl into beautiful crescents. Be sure not to overcook them—tender shrimp are the secret to the Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe’s crowd-pleasing texture.

Step 6: Finish with Bacon, Lemon, and Parsley

Return the crispy bacon to the pan and give everything a gentle toss to combine. Squeeze in the juice of half a lemon, and sprinkle the fresh parsley over the top. This bright finish makes all the flavors pop and brings the dish together perfectly.

Step 7: Assemble and Serve

Spoon a generous bed of creamy cheddar grits into shallow bowls. Pile the spicy shrimp, bacon, and veggies on top, letting the juices run into the grits. Serve immediately for the ultimate comfort food experience—you won’t want to wait!

How to Serve Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Garnishes

The right garnish elevates both the look and flavor of your bowl. Finish with a little more chopped fresh parsley, a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese, or even thinly sliced green onions for that extra pop. If you’re leaning into the heat, a few thin rounds of fresh red chili or a dash of hot sauce look as bold as they taste.

Side Dishes

This dish shines as a satisfying main, but if you’re rounding out a meal, keep sides simple and Southern. A crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette adds freshness, or try oven-roasted asparagus for some crunch. Buttermilk biscuits or skillet cornbread are classic partners and will happily mop up any extra cheesy grits or spicy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a brunch party, serve the Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe family-style in a big platter so everyone can help themselves—or pile it into elegant martini glasses for a fun twist on tradition. Make mini versions in ramekins or small cups for appetizers at gatherings; it’s a surefire way to impress your guests!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, transfer grits and shrimp to separate airtight containers once cooled. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days without losing their creamy and spicy character. Storing them apart helps the grits stay silky when reheated instead of soaking up all the shrimp juices.

Freezing

While grits can be frozen, they may lose some of their glorious creaminess after thawing. If you do want to freeze, store the grits and shrimp separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and stir in a splash of milk or cream as you warm up the grits to bring back their smooth texture.

Reheating

Warm the grits gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or stock to loosen them if needed. Reheat the shrimp mixture in a skillet just until hot—be careful not to overcook. Assemble as before for a next-day meal that’s almost as amazing as the first bite.

FAQs

Can I use quick grits instead of stone-ground?

You can substitute quick grits if that’s what you have on hand, but stone-ground grits offer the best texture and flavor for this Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe. If using quick grits, reduce the cooking time and keep a close eye on consistency.

How can I make this recipe less spicy?

If you prefer a milder version, simply omit the cayenne pepper and use a milder Cajun seasoning blend. You can also cut back on the smoked paprika, or add a splash of cream to the grits to soothe the heat without losing those classic flavors.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your Cajun seasoning doesn’t contain any hidden wheat. Always check your labels if you have dietary restrictions.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute your favorite plant-based milk and vegan cheese for the grits, and use vegan butter. The result will still be creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor—just check that your Cajun seasoning is dairy-free.

What other proteins can I use instead of shrimp?

If you’re not a fan of shrimp, try diced chicken breast, catfish, or even sautéed mushrooms for a tasty vegetarian spin. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed for your chosen protein.

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe is more than just a meal—it’s an invitation to savor the flavors and spirit of the South, one glorious bite at a time. Whip up a batch soon and treat yourself or your friends to a dish that’s equal parts cozy, vibrant, and absolutely unforgettable!

Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

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4.8 from 27 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this recipe for Spicy Southern Shrimp and Grits. Creamy, cheesy grits are paired with perfectly seasoned shrimp for a dish that’s bursting with flavor. This Southern classic is a must-try for shrimp and grits enthusiasts!

Ingredients

Scale

Grits:

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

Shrimp:

1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Additional:

4 slices thick-cut bacon (chopped)
1 small bell pepper (diced)
1 small onion (diced)
2 garlic cloves (minced)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
juice of 1/2 lemon

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Instructions

Prepare the Grits: In a saucepan, bring water and milk to a boil. Add salt and whisk in the grits. Cook on low heat for 20–25 minutes, then stir in butter and cheddar.
Cook the Shrimp: Season shrimp with Cajun spices. Cook bacon until crispy in a skillet, then sauté veggies. Add seasoned shrimp and cook until pink. Add bacon, lemon juice, and parsley.
Serve: Spoon cheesy grits into bowls and top with spicy shrimp mixture. Enjoy hot!