Breakfast & Brunch > International Breakfast & Brunch > North American Brunches > Southern Breakfast (Grits, Biscuits)

Shrimp and Grits

A classic Southern breakfast dish that combines creamy, cheesy grits with flavorful shrimp in a savory sauce. This recipe elevates the traditional dish with smoky bacon and a hint of spice for a truly unforgettable brunch experience.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Servings
4
Ingredients
  • 1 cup Stone-ground grits
  • 4 cups Water
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 cup, shredded Sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons Butter
  • 4 slices, diced Bacon
  • 1 pound, peeled and deveined Shrimp
  • 1/2 medium, diced Green bell pepper
  • 1/2 medium, diced Onion
  • 2 cloves, minced Garlic
  • 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning
  • to taste Hot sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons, chopped Green onions

Cook the Grits

In a medium saucepan, bring water and salt to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grits are creamy and thickened. Stir in cheddar cheese and butter until melted and well combined.

Cook the Bacon

While the grits are cooking, cook the diced bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving the bacon fat in the skillet.

Sauté the Vegetables and Shrimp

Add the diced green bell pepper and onion to the skillet with the bacon fat and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp and Creole seasoning and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Assemble and Serve

Stir in the cooked bacon, hot sauce, and lemon juice into the shrimp mixture. Spoon the creamy grits into bowls and top with the shrimp mixture. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.

← Shakshuka: A Spicy Tomato and Egg Breakfast Southern Biscuits and Gravy →

FAQ

  • Can I use quick-cooking grits?

    While quick-cooking grits can be used, stone-ground grits provide a superior texture and flavor for this dish.
  • What kind of cheese is best for grits?

    Sharp cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but you can also use other cheeses like Gruyere, Parmesan, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
  • Can I make this dish ahead of time?

    The grits can be made ahead of time and reheated with a little milk or water to restore their creamy texture. The shrimp mixture is best made fresh, but the vegetables can be prepped in advance.