Chef John's Shrimp and Grits

Chef John's Shrimp and Grits
  • PREP TIME
    25 mins
  • COOK TIME
    30 mins
  • TOTAL TIME
    55 mins
  • SERVING
    4 People
  • VIEWS
    1.1K

A Southern classic elevated. Succulent shrimp bathed in a creamy, smoky sauce, served over a bed of cheesy, comforting grits. A symphony of flavors and textures that will transport you to the heart of the South.

Ingridients

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Nutrition

  • Carbohydrate
    33 g
  • Cholesterol
    226 mg
  • Fiber
    1 g
  • Protein
    30 g
  • Saturated Fat
    11 g
  • Sodium
    1499 mg
  • Sugar
    1 g
  • Fat
    20 g
  • Unsaturated Fat
    0 g

DIRECTIONS

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Image Step 01
01 Step

Recipe View 7 mins Render the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the diced bacon, turning occasionally, until almost crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels, reserving the flavorful drippings in the skillet.

Image Step 02
02 Step

Recipe View 1 mins Prepare the Cream Sauce Base: In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup water, heavy cream, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. Set aside.

Image Step 03
03 Step

Recipe View 25 mins Cook the Grits: In a medium saucepan, combine the 4 cups of water, butter, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring to a rolling boil. Gradually whisk in the grits. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the grits are creamy and thickened, about 20-25 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded Cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Image Step 04
04 Step

Recipe View 1 mins Season the Shrimp: In a large bowl, season the shrimp with the Cajun spice blend, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

Image Step 05
05 Step

Recipe View 8 mins Sauté the Shrimp and Build the Sauce: Heat the reserved bacon drippings in the skillet over high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 1 minute. Flip the shrimp and add the minced jalapeño. Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the cream mixture, cooked bacon, green onion, and garlic. Cook and stir until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes, adding a splash of water if needed to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.

Image Step 06
06 Step

Recipe View 1 mins Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Ladle the cheesy grits into bowls and top with the succulent shrimp and flavorful sauce. Serve immediately.

For extra depth of flavor, consider using smoked paprika in your Cajun spice blend.
Stone-ground grits provide a superior texture compared to instant grits. Seek them out if possible.
Adjust the amount of jalapeño to suit your spice preference. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add heat.
Garnish with additional parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for visual appeal.

Erica Weber

Written by

Our recipe authors are passionate food lovers who share thousands of diverse dishes from around the world. They bring daily cooking inspiration with delicious, easy-to-make recipes for every occasion.

RECIPE REVIEWS

Avarage Rating: 4.9/ 5 ( 371 Ratings)
Total Reviews: (3)
  • Abbigail Runolfsson

    I've made shrimp and grits before, but this recipe is by far the best. The bacon drippings add so much flavor, and the jalapeño gives it a nice kick.

  • Tatyana Hettinger

    This recipe is a game-changer! The grits were so creamy, and the shrimp were perfectly seasoned. My family devoured it!

  • Sierra Prosacco

    Easy to follow and delicious! I substituted Gouda for the cheddar because that's what I had, and it was amazing. Will definitely make again.

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