If you are craving a true taste of Southern comfort with a kick, then you absolutely must try this Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits Recipe. It combines creamy, cheesy stone-ground grits with tender shrimp seasoned to perfection with smoky paprika and cayenne, delivering warmth and zest in every bite. This dish is a celebration of bold flavors and smooth, luscious textures that feel like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re serving it for a weekend brunch or a cozy dinner, this recipe will become one of your favorite go-to meals that brings both soul and spice to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here plays an important role in building that irresistible flavor and comforting texture that defines this Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits Recipe. These simple staples come together beautifully to create a dish that tastes rich, balanced, and perfectly Southern.
- 1 cup stone-ground grits: Provides the hearty, creamy base with a slightly nutty flavor and perfect texture.
- 4 cups water (or a mix of water and milk): Creates the ideal cooking liquid to achieve that smooth, velvety consistency in the grits.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning the grits and bringing out all the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and a silky mouthfeel to both the grits and shrimp.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melts into the grits for a cheesy, savory goodness you’ll crave.
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Tender and succulent shrimp are the star protein here.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a subtle fruity base for cooking the shrimp evenly.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Elevates the shrimp’s richness and helps infuse the garlic flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Gives the shrimp delicious aromatic depth and a slight bite.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Offers that signature smoky warmth essential to Southern cuisine.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Brings a controlled fiery heat, adjustable to your spice preference.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds mellow sweetness and complements the paprika nicely.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing and balancing all the flavors.
- Juice of 1/2 lemon: Just enough brightness to lift the richness and bring freshness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or green onion: For a vibrant and fresh garnish that finishes the dish beautifully.
How to Make Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Grits to Creamy Perfection
Start by bringing your water or water-milk mixture with salt to a rolling boil. Stir in the stone-ground grits and immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it slowly cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid lumps. This slow cooking is key to achieving perfectly creamy grits. When they’re thick and luscious, stir in butter and shredded cheddar cheese until everything melts into a smooth, decadent base. Keep covered and warm while you move on to the shrimp, so your grits stay velvety and inviting.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Spicy Shrimp
Pat your shrimp dry and toss them in a bowl with smoked paprika, cayenne, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This bold seasoning mix is what makes this Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits Recipe truly memorable. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds to release its fragrance without burning. Place shrimp in a single layer in the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and become opaque. Right at the end, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and toss to coat, adding a bright zing that perfectly balances the spice and richness.
Step 3: Assemble and Serve
Scoop generous portions of your creamy grits into bowls and top with the sizzling, spicy shrimp. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh pop of color and herbaceous flavor. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of hot shrimp on silky grits – a match made in Southern food heaven.
How to Serve Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or vibrant green onions bring not only a lovely color contrast but also a hint of freshness that cuts through the creamy, spicy richness. If you want a little extra indulgence, sprinkle on some crumbled crispy bacon or a dash of smoked paprika just before serving to elevate the flavors even more.
Side Dishes
This dish stands strong on its own but pairs wonderfully with Southern-inspired sides such as sautéed greens, roasted Brussels sprouts, or even a tangy coleslaw to add crunch and brightness. For a brunch vibe, a simple mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette is a refreshing choice.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming dinner party touch, serve the grits in individual ramekins and place the shrimp artfully on top like a crown. Alternatively, try plating the shrimp alongside spoonfuls of grits with a drizzle of spicy remoulade or hot sauce for those who love an extra kick. This Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits Recipe is perfect for experimenting with presentation to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover shrimp and grits stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. This separation helps maintain the texture of both components so nothing gets soggy or overcooked.
Freezing
Grits freeze better than shrimp, so if you want to freeze portions, cool the grits completely and place them in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for a short time if necessary. Reheat carefully to avoid drying them out.
Reheating
Reheat the grits gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or water to loosen them up. Warm the shrimp quickly in a hot skillet or microwave just until heated through to avoid toughness. Then, assemble as fresh as possible for the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use quick-cooking grits instead of stone-ground?
Quick-cooking grits can be used in a pinch, but stone-ground grits provide a superior texture and depth of flavor that really make this dish shine. The slow cooking process of stone-ground grits is key to that creamy, satisfying mouthfeel.
How spicy is this Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits Recipe?
The spice level is moderate and totally customizable. The cayenne pepper adds heat, but you can reduce or increase it based on your heat preference. The smoky paprika balances the spice with warmth without overwhelming your palate.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine, and swap out the cheddar cheese for a dairy-free alternative or simply omit it. Using water instead of milk will also keep it dairy-free while still delicious.
What sides complement this dish best?
Classic Southern sides like collard greens, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad pair well without competing with the richness of the shrimp and grits. You can also try cornbread or sautéed greens to keep it traditional.
Is this recipe good for entertaining guests?
Absolutely! This Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits Recipe is easy to scale up and made mostly on the stovetop, so it’s practical and impressive for gatherings. Plus, it hits all the comfort notes that guests love.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits Recipe. It’s a delightful blend of creamy, cheesy, spicy, and smoky flavors that come together effortlessly to create a memorable meal. Whether you’re new to Southern cooking or a longtime fan, I promise this recipe will become a favorite you’ll come back to again and again. So grab those grits and fresh shrimp, and start cooking up some warm, comforting magic!
Print
Spicy Southern Shrimp + Grits Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful Southern classic, Spicy Southern Shrimp and Grits features creamy, cheesy stone-ground grits topped with perfectly seasoned and sautéed shrimp with a kick of smoked paprika and cayenne. This comforting dish is quick to prepare on the stovetop and garnished with fresh parsley or green onions for a bright finish.
Ingredients
For the Grits:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water (or a mix of water and milk for creamier grits)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
For the Spicy Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or green onion (for garnish)
Instructions
- Make the Grits: In a medium saucepan, bring water (or a water and milk mixture) and salt to a boil. Stir in the stone-ground grits, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook the grits for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become thick and creamy. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Cover again and keep warm while preparing the shrimp.
- Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels, then toss them in a bowl with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, salt, and pepper to evenly coat all the shrimp with the seasoning.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the shrimp and toss gently to coat.
- Assemble and Serve: Spoon a generous portion of the creamy grits into individual serving bowls. Top with the spicy sautéed shrimp. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Add crumbled bacon or sautéed bell peppers to the shrimp for extra flavor.
- For a richer and extra-creamy texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream to the grits at the end of cooking.
