There’s something truly special about a bowl of Southern Shrimp & Grits. Creamy, buttery grits paired with juicy, well-seasoned shrimp create the ultimate comfort food experience. In this elevated version, we add crispy bacon and smoky calabrese sausage for extra depth and richness. The result? A restaurant-quality dish that’s rich, creamy, slightly smoky, and incredibly satisfying — yet simple enough to make right at home.
Let’s bring a taste of the South to your kitchen!
🛒 Ingredients
🥣 For the Creamy Polenta (Grits Base)
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1 cup (160 g) cornmeal
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3 cups (720 ml) chicken broth
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2 cups (480 ml) milk
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1 cup (80 g) shredded cheddar cheese (or any mild melting cheese)
🍤 For Marinating the Shrimp
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300 g shrimp, peeled and deveined
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1 tsp dried mixed herbs
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 Tbsp / 30 ml)
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1 Tbsp minced garlic
🌭 For the Shrimp Sauté
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1 calabrese sausage (about 200 g), chopped
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2 garlic cloves, minced (about 1 Tbsp)
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2 medium tomatoes (about 300 g), chopped
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2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
🥓 For Finishing
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150 g bacon, chopped
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1 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Creamy Grits
In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth and milk to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Slowly whisk in the cornmeal to prevent lumps.
Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, for about 15–20 minutes until thick and creamy.
Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust salt if needed. Keep warm.
2️⃣ Marinate the Shrimp
In a bowl, combine shrimp with smoked paprika, dried herbs, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
Mix well to coat evenly and let marinate for 10–15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
3️⃣ Cook the Bacon & Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the flavorful bacon fat in the pan.
Add the chopped calabrese sausage and cook until browned and slightly crispy. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4️⃣ Build the Flavor Base
Add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 3–5 minutes until softened and slightly saucy.
Stir in the fresh parsley and let everything simmer gently.
5️⃣ Sear the Shrimp
Push the sausage mixture slightly to the side and add the marinated shrimp in a single layer.
Cook for about 1–2 minutes per side, just until pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking — shrimp cook quickly!
6️⃣ Assemble the Dish
Spoon the creamy grits into bowls.
Top generously with the shrimp, sausage, and tomato mixture.
Finish with crispy bacon and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Shrimp & Grits
✨ Whisk Constantly – Adding cornmeal slowly while whisking prevents lumps.
🔥 Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – As soon as they turn pink and opaque, they’re done. Overcooking makes them rubbery.
🧀 Use Freshly Shredded Cheese – It melts better and keeps the grits ultra-smooth.
🥓 Save That Bacon Fat – It’s liquid gold for flavor!
🌶️ Like It Spicy? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
🏆 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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🍤 Juicy, flavorful shrimp every time
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🥣 Ultra-creamy, cheesy grits
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🥓 Smoky depth from bacon and sausage
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⏱️ Ready in under 45 minutes
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🍽️ Restaurant-style presentation at home
📌 FAQs
1. Can I use quick grits instead of cornmeal?
Yes! Adjust cooking time according to package instructions. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.
2. What can I substitute for calabrese sausage?
Andouille, smoked sausage, or even chorizo work beautifully.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Grits are best fresh, but you can reheat them with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
4. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely. Just thaw completely and pat dry before marinating.
5. Is this dish spicy?
It has mild warmth from the smoked paprika and sausage, but it’s not overly spicy. Adjust to taste!
📢 Share Your Experience!
Did you try this Classic Southern Shrimp & Grits? I’d love to hear how it turned out!
Leave a comment below, share your photos, and let me know if you added your own twist. And if you loved it, don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family!
Happy cooking! 🍽️✨
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