Southern Comfort Shrimp and Grits Recipe

Introduction

Southern Comfort Shrimp and Grits is a rich, soul-satisfying dish that perfectly balances creamy, buttery grits with juicy shrimp cooked in a robust, flavorful sauce. This classic Southern dish is beloved for its comforting texture and irresistible combination of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors — making it a true crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and elegance to any meal.

Whether you’re hosting brunch or looking for a standout dinner, this recipe delivers restaurant-worthy taste with a straightforward process that’s manageable for home cooks at any level.

What Makes Southern Comfort Shrimp and Grits So Special?

What sets this recipe apart is the harmony of creamy stone-ground grits paired with perfectly seasoned shrimp and a punchy sauce loaded with bacon, garlic, and a hint of spice. The grits strike the perfect balance between creaminess and texture, while the shrimp soak up savory flavors in every bite.

From the colorful garnish of scallions to the bold flavors of smoked paprika and a touch of lemon, each element complements the other for a dish that’s both rustic and refined.

Prepping the Vegetables and Shrimp with Ease

Efficiency is key for keeping your prep quick and tidy. Use the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper to dice onions, bell peppers, and garlic in seconds, ensuring perfectly even cuts that cook consistently.

Pat the shrimp dry and season generously with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This step helps them brown nicely and prevents that “boiled” texture. Remember to prep your bacon and veggies ahead so you can move smoothly between steps.

The Secret to Creamy, Flavorful Grits

The secret to truly lush grits is using the right ratio of milk and broth for maximum flavor. Stir frequently with a sturdy spatula to keep them from sticking and to ensure a creamy result. For best results, simmer the grits low and slow, whisking in butter and sharp cheddar cheese until luxuriously smooth.

A reliable pan is crucial here — a SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch makes both scrambling and simmering the grits effortless and clean-up a breeze.

How to Perfectly Sauté Shrimp and Build the Sauce

Cook the bacon in your nonstick skillet until crisp, then remove and set aside, leaving the flavorful fat behind. Sauté onions, peppers, and garlic until fragrant. Next, add the seasoned shrimp, cooking just until pink and opaque to keep them juicy.

Deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken stock and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, scraping up bits of flavor from the skillet to build intensity in your sauce. For a little extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne or your favorite hot sauce.

Finishing Touches and Serving Suggestions

To serve, spoon the creamy grits into wide, shallow bowls and top generously with shrimp, veggies, and bacon. Garnish with sliced scallions and chopped parsley for color and a fresh, herby lift.

Planning to host? Use a Pureegg Plastic Table Cloth Disposable 10 Pack, White to make post-feast cleanup easy and keep your dining space looking sharp. If you’re taking leftovers, pack them securely in a Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5 (3.2 Cup) — these are airtight and perfect for keeping both shrimp and grits fresh.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This Southern Comfort Shrimp and Grits recipe serves 4 hearty main courses. Each serving contains approximately 450–500 calories, 25g protein, 15g fat, and 45g carbohydrates — dependent on your specific bacon and cheese choices.

Shrimp and Grits: Classic, Satisfying Southern Comfort

If you want flavorful comfort food that’s both indulgent and utterly satisfying, look no further. Southern Comfort Shrimp and Grits is a dish that delights guests and family, combining classic Southern flavors in every creamy, savory spoonful.

Instructions

1. Bring 2½ cups chicken broth and 1½ cups milk to a simmer in a large saucepan. Whisk in the grits and cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until thick and creamy (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Off heat, stir in butter and shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and set aside to keep warm.
3. While grits cook, use the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper to dice onions, peppers, and garlic for quick, even prep.
4. In a SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
5. Add onions and bell peppers to the skillet; sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
6. Season shrimp with paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). Add shrimp to the pan and cook, flipping once, until pink and just cooked through, about 4 minutes total. Transfer shrimp to a plate, cover to keep warm.
7. Deglaze skillet with ¼ cup chicken broth and squeeze in the juice of half a lemon. Simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up bits from the pan, then return shrimp and bacon to the skillet. Stir to coat and heat through.
8. To serve, spoon creamy grits onto plates or shallow bowls. Top with shrimp, vegetables, and bacon. Garnish with parsley and scallions. Serve hot, with additional hot sauce if desired.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

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This Southern Comfort Shrimp and Grits recipe is sure to delight with its creamy grits, bold shrimp, and punchy sauce. Make it for an impressive brunch or a cozy night in — either way, it’s comfort food at its absolute best.