Treat yourself to the ultimate Southern comfort dish with these mouthwatering shrimp and grits recipes.
From classic Lowcountry style to creative modern twists, you’ll discover how to transform simple ingredients into a luxurious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
We’ve curated 10 spectacular variations that showcase the versatility of this beloved dish.
Whether you prefer your grits creamy and cheesy or like your shrimp with a spicy Cajun kick, these recipes will help you master this iconic comfort food and impress your family and friends with restaurant-quality results at home.
Classic Charleston-Style Shrimp and Creamy Stone-Ground Grits

Classic Charleston-Style Shrimp and Creamy Stone-Ground Grits is a Southern comfort dish that combines succulent shrimp with velvety, stone-ground grits.
This iconic Low Country recipe brings together the best of coastal flavors with hearty, creamy grits for a perfect blend of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Bring water to a boil in a large pot. Add grits and reduce heat to low. Stir frequently for 20-25 minutes until creamy.
Step 2: Add heavy cream, butter, and cheese to grits. Stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, sauté until translucent.
Step 4: Add shrimp and Old Bay seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink.
Step 5: Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes.
Step 6: Serve shrimp over grits, garnish with parsley.
Pro Tip: For the creamiest grits, never rush the cooking process – low and slow is key. Remember to season your shrimp just before cooking to prevent them from becoming tough and rubbery.
Cajun Spiced Shrimp over Sharp Cheddar Grits

Transform your dinner table with this soul-warming combination of spicy Cajun shrimp served over creamy, cheesy grits.
This classic Southern dish brings together the perfect balance of heat and comfort, making it an impressive yet achievable meal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Fresh parsley for garnish
For the Grits:
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Bring chicken broth to a boil in a medium pot. Slowly whisk in grits, reduce heat to low, and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: While grits cook, toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning in a bowl.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink.
Step 4: Add garlic to the shrimp and cook for 30 seconds. Finish with lemon juice.
Step 5: Stir butter, cheese, and cream into grits until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 6: Serve shrimp over grits and garnish with parsley.
Pro Tip: For the creamiest grits, never stop stirring during the first 5 minutes of cooking. You can adjust the Cajun seasoning’s heat level by starting with half the amount and adding more to taste.
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Roasted Corn Grits

Treat yourself to a Southern-inspired comfort dish that combines succulent garlic butter shrimp with creamy, roasted corn grits.
This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious meal that’s perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
The sweetness of roasted corn complements the rich, buttery shrimp while creating a harmonious blend of textures.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups stone-ground grits
• 2 ears fresh corn, kernels removed
• 6 tablespoons butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 lemon, juiced
Step 1: Roast corn kernels in a dry skillet over medium-high heat until slightly charred (5-7 minutes). Set aside.
Step 2: Bring chicken broth and milk to a boil in a large pot. Slowly whisk in grits. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Stir in 4 tablespoons butter, roasted corn, and cheese into grits. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: In a separate large skillet, melt remaining butter with garlic over medium heat.
Step 5: Add shrimp to the garlic butter, cooking 2-3 minutes per side until pink.
Step 6: Serve shrimp over grits, garnish with parsley and a squeeze of lemon.
Pro Tip: For the creamiest grits, never stop stirring during the first 5 minutes of cooking. Also, make sure your shrimp are completely dry before adding them to the pan – this ensures perfect searing and prevents them from becoming rubbery.
Creole-Style Shrimp over Jalapeno Cheese Grits

Creole-Style Shrimp over Jalapeño Cheese Grits combines the best of Southern comfort food with a spicy New Orleans twist.
This hearty dish features plump shrimp swimming in a zesty Creole sauce, served over creamy, cheesy grits with a kick of jalapeño heat.
Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressive enough for entertaining guests.
Ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons Creole seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
For the Grits:
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely diced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Start the grits by bringing water to a boil. Add grits slowly, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Meanwhile, season shrimp with Creole seasoning and set aside.
Step 3: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté vegetables until softened (about 5 minutes).
Step 4: Add tomatoes and broth to vegetables, simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Add shrimp to sauce, cook 3-4 minutes until pink.
Step 6: Finish grits by stirring in cheese, jalapeños, cream, salt, and pepper.
Step 7: Serve shrimp and sauce over hot grits.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcook your shrimp – they’ll continue cooking slightly in the hot sauce. Also, for creamier grits, never stop stirring them during the first 5 minutes of cooking to prevent lumps from forming.
Lemon Herb Shrimp with Mascarpone Grits

Elevate your dinner game with this luxurious Southern-inspired dish that combines succulent shrimp with creamy mascarpone grits.
This recipe brings together zesty lemon, fresh herbs, and rich mascarpone cheese to create a comforting yet sophisticated meal that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 8 oz mascarpone cheese
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 lemons (juice and zest)
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Bring chicken broth to a boil in a medium pot. Slowly whisk in grits and reduce heat to low. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: When grits are tender, stir in mascarpone cheese and 2 tablespoons butter until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon fresh thyme.
Step 4: Heat olive oil and remaining butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Step 5: Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink.
Step 6: Add lemon juice, zest, remaining herbs, and toss to combine.
Step 7: Serve shrimp over warm grits and garnish with extra herbs.
Pro Tip: For the creamiest grits, never stop stirring during the first 5 minutes of cooking. Also, make sure your shrimp are completely dry before cooking to achieve the perfect sear and prevent them from becoming rubbery.
Coconut Milk Grits with Curry Spiced Shrimp

Elevate your breakfast or dinner game with this Southern-meets-Asian fusion dish.
Creamy coconut milk grits create a luxurious base for perfectly seasoned curry shrimp, combining comfort food with exotic flavors that will transport your taste buds to new heights.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 2 cups water
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Bring coconut milk and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add grits, reduce heat to low, and whisk frequently for 20-25 minutes until creamy.
Step 2: While grits cook, pat shrimp dry with paper towels. In a bowl, combine curry powder, turmeric, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Toss shrimp in the spice mixture until well coated.
Step 4: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
Step 5: Add seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and curled.
Step 6: Spoon grits into bowls, top with curry shrimp, garnish with cilantro, and serve with lime wedges.
Pro Tip: For the creamiest grits, never stop stirring during the cooking process. If your grits become too thick, gradually add warm water or coconut milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Blackened Shrimp over Smoky Gouda Grits

Blackened Shrimp over Smoky Gouda Grits is a Southern comfort dish with a gourmet twist.
This recipe combines perfectly seasoned, spicy shrimp with creamy, cheesy grits that’ll make your taste buds dance.
You can prepare this restaurant-quality meal in just 30 minutes for a memorable dinner experience.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup smoked Gouda cheese, grated
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish
Step 1: Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add grits and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until creamy.
Step 2: While grits cook, coat shrimp with blackening seasoning.
Step 3: Stir heavy cream, butter, and garlic powder into the grits. Add smoked Gouda and stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and develop a nice crust.
Step 5: Spoon the cheesy grits into bowls, top with blackened shrimp, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcook your shrimp – they should form a “C” shape when done, but if they curl into an “O” shape, they’re overcooked. For the creamiest grits, never stop stirring and add cheese gradually to prevent clumping.
Old Bay Seasoned Shrimp with Buttermilk Grits

Elevate your seafood game with this Southern coastal favorite that combines succulent Old Bay-seasoned shrimp with creamy buttermilk grits.
This comforting dish brings together the rich flavors of the sea with the heartwarming taste of classic Southern grits, all in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Bring chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Slowly whisk in grits and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: While grits cook, toss shrimp with Old Bay seasoning in a bowl until well coated.
Step 3: Stir buttermilk, butter, and cheese into the grits. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and keep warm.
Step 4: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and curled.
Step 5: Spoon warm grits into bowls, top with shrimp, and garnish with green onions.
Pro Tip: For the creamiest grits, never stop stirring during the first 5 minutes of cooking – this prevents lumps from forming. Also, make sure your shrimp are completely dry before seasoning to achieve the perfect sear.
Fire-Roasted Tomato and Shrimp over Parmesan Grits

Fire-Roasted Tomato and Shrimp over Parmesan Grits is a comforting Southern-inspired dish that combines creamy, cheesy grits with succulent shrimp and smoky tomatoes.
This recipe brings together the perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it an impressive yet achievable meal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cans fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
Step 1: Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium pot. Add grits and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: While grits cook, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until translucent.
Step 3: Add fire-roasted tomatoes to the skillet and simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Season shrimp with paprika, salt, and pepper. Add to the tomato mixture and cook for 3-4 minutes until pink.
Step 5: Stir butter and Parmesan into the grits until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 6: Serve shrimp and tomato mixture over grits. Garnish with parsley.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcook your shrimp – they should be just pink and slightly curled. For the creamiest grits, stir them frequently and add a splash of water if they become too thick during cooking.
Low Country Boil-Inspired Shrimp and Grits

Low Country Boil-Inspired Shrimp and Grits brings together the best of Southern coastal cuisine with a comforting twist.
This recipe transforms the traditional seafood boil elements into a creamy, flavorful grits dish topped with perfectly seasoned shrimp and vegetables, creating a memorable meal that’s perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups corn kernels
• 2 cups baby potatoes, quartered
• 1 large lemon, juiced
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Bring chicken broth to a boil in a large pot. Slowly whisk in grits and reduce heat to low. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until creamy.
Step 2: Add heavy cream and 2 tablespoons butter to grits, stirring until well combined. Keep warm.
Step 3: In a large skillet, melt remaining butter and add potatoes. Cook for 10 minutes until tender.
Step 4: Add corn and garlic, cooking for 3 minutes.
Step 5: Add shrimp, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, and lemon juice. Cook until shrimp turn pink (3-4 minutes).
Step 6: Serve shrimp mixture over warm grits and garnish with parsley.
Pro Tip: For the creamiest grits, never stop stirring during the first 5 minutes of cooking. You can also prepare the grits ahead of time and reheat them with a bit of extra cream while cooking the shrimp mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes traditional shrimp and grits creamy and flavorful?
Use stone-ground grits cooked with butter and heavy cream for the creamiest texture. Adding sharp cheddar cheese and garlic enhances the rich, savory flavors.
How do you prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery when cooking for shrimp and grits?
Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and curl into a loose C-shape, about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking will make them tough and chewy.
What are the best seasonings to enhance shrimp and grits?
Combine Old Bay seasoning, cayenne pepper, and fresh herbs like thyme and parsley. Add garlic, onion powder, and a touch of smoked paprika for depth.
How can you make restaurant-quality grits at home?
Choose quality stone-ground grits and cook them slowly with chicken broth instead of water. Stir frequently and add cream gradually for the smoothest consistency.
What’s the best way to serve shrimp and grits for a dinner party?
Serve immediately while hot, garnishing with fresh herbs and extra sauce. Keep grits warm in a double boiler to maintain their creamy texture throughout serving.
Final Thoughts
These classic shrimp and grits recipes showcase the versatility of this beloved Southern dish.
Whether you prefer your grits creamy or cheesy, or your shrimp spicy or mild, you’ll find a perfect match among these variations.
Remember to source fresh, high-quality shrimp and stone-ground grits for the best results.
Don’t rush the cooking process – letting your grits simmer slowly develops their signature texture.
Feel free to adjust the seasonings to match your taste preferences, and always serve immediately while both components are piping hot.