There are few dishes that capture the comfort and bold flavor of the South quite like a steaming bowl of shrimp and grits with cheddar. Creamy, cheesy grits form the perfect base for tender, seasoned shrimp cooked to perfection — all layered into one deeply satisfying dish.
Whether you’re serving it for a special brunch, a cozy weeknight dinner, or just because you’re craving something warm and hearty, this recipe delivers big on flavor and comfort without a ton of fuss.
🍤 What Makes Shrimp and Grits So Special?
At its heart, shrimp and grits is a dish born from Southern tradition — one that combines humble ingredients into something extraordinary. Originally a simple fisherman’s breakfast in the Low Country, it has evolved into a beloved staple served everywhere from home kitchens to upscale restaurants.
Add cheddar to the mix? Now you’ve got creaminess and tang to balance the smoky spice of the shrimp — a true match made in comfort food heaven.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s break down what you need to make the ultimate bowl.
For the Cheddar Grits:
- 1 cup stone-ground or quick-cooking grits
- 4 cups water or chicken broth (or a combo)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- Optional: splash of cream for extra richness
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning (or Old Bay)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of half a lemon
- Optional: splash of hot sauce or pinch of chili flakes
🧑🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to cook? This dish comes together quickly once your prep is done.
Step 1: Cook the Grits
Start here — grits take the longest.
- In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water or broth to a boil.
- Slowly whisk in the grits to prevent clumping.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer. Stir often until thick and creamy (time varies by type of grits — 5–20 minutes).
- Once soft, stir in butter, shredded cheddar, and a splash of cream if desired. Season with salt to taste.
- Keep warm while you cook the shrimp.
📝 Tip: If your grits get too thick, stir in a little warm water or milk to loosen them.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Shrimp
Shrimp cook fast, so keep your grits ready to go.
- Toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic, paprika, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little oil or butter.
- Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1½–2 minutes per side or until pink and opaque.
- Squeeze in lemon juice and remove from heat immediately.
📝 Tip: Don’t overcook the shrimp — they should be just firm and juicy.
Step 3: Assemble the Bowl
Time to build the layers.
- Scoop a generous spoonful of warm cheddar grits into a shallow bowl.
- Top with the sautéed shrimp and a little of that garlicky pan sauce.
- Garnish with fresh herbs (parsley or green onions), extra cheddar, or a dash of hot sauce.
🧠 Pro Tips for the Best Results
| Tip | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Use sharp cheddar | Adds tangy flavor that cuts through richness |
| Cook grits low and slow | Makes them extra creamy and smooth |
| Season shrimp just before cooking | Keeps them tender and flavorful |
| Don’t skip the lemon | Brightens the whole dish |
| Finish with fresh herbs | Adds color and freshness to the bowl |
🧂 Ingredient Variations & Add-Ins
Want to make it your own? Try these ideas:
| Ingredient | Swap or Add |
|---|---|
| Grits | Use polenta or mashed cauliflower (for low carb) |
| Cheese | Try Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan |
| Shrimp | Sub with scallops, smoked sausage, or tofu |
| Seasoning | Use Creole, Old Bay, or harissa for different spice profiles |
| Toppings | Add crispy bacon bits, sautéed spinach, or a poached egg |
🍽️ What to Serve with Shrimp and Grits
This dish is rich enough to stand alone, but it shines with simple sides.
Great Pairings:
- Sautéed greens (collards, kale, or spinach)
- Roasted okra or green beans
- Buttermilk biscuits or cornbread
- Light salad with vinaigrette
- Sweet tea, lemonade, or a chilled white wine
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Yes, you can save leftovers — and they reheat well!
To Store:
- Keep grits and shrimp in separate airtight containers.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To Reheat:
- Grits: Warm on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk or water.
- Shrimp: Reheat gently in a pan over low heat or in the microwave (short bursts).
🧮 Nutrition Snapshot (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~450 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbs | 32g |
| Fat | 23g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 1g |
Note: Values vary by portion size and cheese type.
💬 A Southern Favorite in My Kitchen
The first time I made shrimp and grits, it was after a trip to Charleston. I was hooked. The creamy cheddar grits were unlike anything I’d had before — soft, buttery, with just the right bite. The shrimp? Juicy, seasoned, and pan-seared to golden perfection.
Now, it’s a regular at my table — especially on chilly nights or lazy Sunday brunches. It’s warm, inviting, and guaranteed to make you close your eyes with the first bite.
📦 Make It Ahead for Guests
Shrimp and grits might seem like a made-to-order kind of meal — and it is! But here’s how to prep most of it ahead:
- Make the grits ahead and reheat with a little broth or milk.
- Season the shrimp and refrigerate until ready to cook.
- Chop garlic and herbs in advance.
Then all you need is a quick sauté and assemble. It’s a perfect semi-fancy dish that doesn’t keep you stuck in the kitchen.
🧪 Fun Flavor Add-Ons to Try
Want to elevate this dish even more?
| Add-On | What It Adds |
|---|---|
| Crumbled bacon | Smoky crunch |
| Sautéed mushrooms | Earthy depth |
| Hot honey drizzle | Sweet heat contrast |
| Pickled jalapeños | Tangy spice |
| Chive oil | Herbal freshness |
Mix and match to find your signature version.
✅ Final Thoughts
Shrimp and grits with cheddar is one of those unforgettable dishes — a beautiful balance of creamy, cheesy grits and perfectly spiced shrimp. It’s soulful, satisfying, and shockingly simple to pull together.
Whether you’re serving it up at brunch or settling in for a comforting dinner, this dish is guaranteed to warm bellies and win hearts. So grab that skillet, stir those grits, and let the scent of garlic and cheddar bring the South right into your kitchen.