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Southern Shrimp and Grits

Indulge in this savory brunch classic. Saucy shrimp simmered in the most delicious sauce served over a bed of creamy, cheesy grits.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Brunch
Cuisine Southern
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb shrimp
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 1 1/2 tsp Tony’s Creole seasoning
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 yellow onion diced
  • 1/3 cup chopped seasoning (diced onions, celery and bell pepper)
  • 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes halved or 1 roma tomato diced
  • 1/2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/3 cup chicken broth or water
  • 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • Juice from 1/2 lemon
  • 4 sprigs of green onions diced

For the Grits

  • 1 cup Instant or Old Fashioned grits
  • 1.5 cup water
  • 1.5 cup chicken broth
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream use more if needed
  • 1/2 cup Gouda shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1/2 cup Colby Jack shredded
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder optional
  • Salt + pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Clean and pat the shrimp dry. Place them in a bowl and season with 1 tsp of olive oil, 1/2 tsp Tony’s, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp smoked paprika, and salt and pepper. Mix to combine and set aside.
  • In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped seasoning and sauté for 3 minutes, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for 2 more minutes.
  • Next, add the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth or water and season the sauce with 1 tsp Tony’s, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, if desired, 1/4 tsp smoked paprika, salt and pepper to taste.
  • Stir in the heavy cream. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and mix well.
  • Add in the shrimp, cover and allow it to cook for 2-3 minutes per side. Add in some green onions then toss everything together, once cooked through.

For the grits

  • Bring 1.5 cups of chicken broth, 1.5 cups of water and 1/2 cup of milk and 2 tbsp of butter to a boil. Stir in Instant Grits and whisk. Reduce the heat to medium low and cover.
  • After about 5 minutes check the grits. Once the liquid is almost gone pour in the remaining 1/2 cup of milk, and butter. Once the milk and butter has dissolved, add in the heavy cream and stir until smooth.
  • Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Then stir in Gouda, Parmesan, and Colby Jack cheeses. Mix until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
  • Serve the saucy shrimp over creamy grits. Garnish with green onions and enjoy!
Keyword Brunch, Shrimp Recipes