Low Country Shrimp & Grits
A flavorful Southern classic featuring creamy cheesy grits topped with succulent shrimp, crispy bacon, and zesty lemon, perfect for comforting and indulgent meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring water to a boil in a pot. Add salt and pepper.
- Stir in stone ground grits and cook for 20-25 minutes until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter and shredded cheddar cheese.
- In a skillet, fry chopped bacon until browned and crispy. Drain well.
- In the bacon grease, add peeled shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add lemon juice, chopped bacon, chopped parsley, and minced garlic to the shrimp. Saute for 3 minutes.
- Spoon the cheesy grits into a serving bowl and top with the shrimp mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor in your grits, consider adding a splash of cream or using chicken broth instead of water. If you can't find stone ground grits, instant grits can be a faster substitute, though the texture may differ. To elevate the dish, try adding some sautéed bell peppers or onions with the shrimp, reminiscent of American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Low Country Shrimp & Grits hot, topped with additional chopped parsley for freshness. This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad, such as a Bacon And Cauliflower Salad, or some crusty bread to soak up the flavors. For a complete meal, consider serving with grilled vegetables or a side of sautéed greens.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover shrimp and grits can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to regain creaminess, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Microwaving is also an option, but be cautious to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low Country Shrimp & Grits contains roughly 739 calories, with 59g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (188% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (133% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking, ideally overnight in the refrigerator or under cold running water. This will help maintain their texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a cheese substitute, you can use Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. For a sharper taste, try using pepper jack. Just ensure the cheese you choose melts well to maintain the creamy texture of the grits.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the shrimp mixture. Alternatively, serving with a spicy hot sauce on the side allows guests to adjust the heat to their preference.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).