The aroma wafting from a pot of Carolina Shrimp and Grits is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. Imagine plump, juicy shrimp sautéed to perfection, mingling with rich, creamy grits that offer a comforting embrace. It’s like a warm hug from Grandma, but tastier. This dish captures the essence of Southern cooking—bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and a sprinkle of love.
I remember the first time I tried making Carolina Shrimp and Grits at home. I was determined to impress my friends during a dinner party. Let’s just say, the dish was so good that it almost made my single status irrelevant for a brief moment. This delightful recipe is perfect for cozy nights in or lively gatherings with friends.
Why You'll Love This Carolina Shrimp and Grits
- This incredible Carolina Shrimp and Grits transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly
If you’re curious about why this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, let me tell you—it’s not just about the food; it’s about the memories created around the table.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Shrimp: Opt for large, succulent shrimp that are firm to the touch for maximum flavor.
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Stone-Ground Grits: Choose high-quality stone-ground grits; they cook up creamier than instant varieties.
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Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness; it adds richness to both grits and shrimp.
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Cream: Heavy cream enhances the grits’ texture and adds an irresistible richness that elevates the dish.
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Bacon: Crumbled crispy bacon provides that savory crunch and smoky flavor we all crave.
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Green Onions: Fresh green onions add brightness and a pop of color to your finished dish.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic infuses lovely warmth in both the shrimp and grits; don’t skimp on it!
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Old Bay Seasoning: A classic seafood seasoning that brings out all those coastal flavors beautifully.
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Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a zesty contrast to balance out the richness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Carolina Shrimp and Grits
Prepare Your Grains: Begin by bringing 4 cups of salted water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in stone-ground grits while stirring continuously until smooth.
Cook Until Creamy: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer grits for about 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally until they become thick and creamy; add butter and cream for extra luxury.
Sauté Your Shrimp: In a separate skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon but keep fat in the pan; toss in shrimp seasoned with Old Bay seasoning until they turn pink.
Add Garlic Goodness: Once the shrimp look fabulous (about 3-5 minutes), toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—this should take around 30 seconds.
Combine It All Together: Return crispy bacon to the skillet with shrimp; squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything for an extra zing! Mix well before serving.
Serve & Garnish!: Spoon creamy grits into bowls or plates; top generously with your succulent shrimp mixture. Sprinkle green onions on top for that final touch of freshness!
Cooking Carolina Shrimp and Grits is an experience filled with anticipation as you watch everything come together in harmony—a medley of sights and scents that are hard to resist!
You Must Know About Carolina Shrimp and Grits
- This showstopping Carolina Shrimp and Grits delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create a flawless Carolina Shrimp and Grits, start by cooking your grits first; this allows them to rest while you prepare the shrimp. After the grits are creamy, sauté the shrimp with spices until they’re perfectly tender. This sequence ensures everything is hot and fresh when served.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this dish! Swap out the standard cheese for smoked Gouda for added depth or sprinkle some crispy bacon bits on top for that extra crunch. You can also spice things up with jalapeños or add fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to the grits to restore their creamy texture before warming them in a saucepan over low heat.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Carolina Shrimp and Grits
- This professional-quality Carolina Shrimp and Grits relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth
- Tip let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly
Sharing my first experience making Carolina Shrimp and Grits was hilarious; I forgot to season the grits! My friends were too polite to mention it until we were halfway through dinner!
FAQ
What type of shrimp should I use for Carolina Shrimp and Grits?
For this recipe, medium to large-sized shrimp work best since they provide a meaty texture without overwhelming the dish. Fresh shrimp offer superior flavor, but frozen shrimp can work well if thawed properly beforehand.
Can I make Carolina Shrimp and Grits ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare grits ahead of time; just reheat them slowly with added liquid. Cook the shrimp fresh just before serving to maintain their tenderness and avoid overcooking.
What can I substitute for grits if I can’t find them?
If you cannot find grits, polenta serves as an excellent substitute; it provides a similar texture but offers a slightly different flavor profile. Creamy mashed potatoes could also work in a pinch!
How do I know when my shrimp are cooked perfectly?
Perfectly cooked shrimp turn pink and curl slightly but remain firm yet tender. Avoid overcooking as they can become rubbery—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes depending on size.
Conclusion for Carolina Shrimp and Grits
Carolina Shrimp and Grits is not only delicious but also flexible enough to adapt to your own tastes. By mastering the cooking process, adding your unique flair, and following storage tips, you’ll create a dish that’s sure to impress friends or family. Enjoy crafting your version of this Southern classic!
Carolina Shrimp and Grits
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Description
Carolina Shrimp and Grits is a quintessential Southern dish that perfectly marries succulent shrimp with creamy, stone-ground grits. This comforting meal bursts with flavors, featuring crispy bacon, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic. Ideal for cozy nights or festive gatherings, it transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality feast that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe captures the heart of Southern cooking while allowing you to add your personal touch.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water (salted)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring salted water to a boil. Gradually whisk in stone-ground grits until smooth.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until thick and creamy. Stir in butter and cream.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon but retain fat in the pan.
- Add shrimp seasoned with Old Bay and sauté until pink (about 3-5 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Return bacon to the skillet; squeeze lemon juice over the mixture and stir well.
- Serve creamy grits topped with shrimp mixture and garnish with green onions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
