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There’s a certain charm that fills the air when you whip up a dish as classic as Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to savor the warmth of Southern hospitality. Picture this: creamy, stone-ground grits enveloped in a delicious blanket of perfectly sautéed shrimp that dances with flavors of garlic and spices. The moment you raise your fork for that first bite, the combination of buttery grits and the zesty pop of lemon on the shrimp makes the world outside fade away.

After a long week, I find myself drawn to the comfort of this dish, which comes together in about an hour—ideal for both a cozy family dinner or an impressive gathering with friends. It’s no wonder this delight is a staple in many Southern kitchens! Join me as we explore the beauty of this traditional meal that beautifully captures the essence of Lowcountry cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone just getting comfortable in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.

Why will you love Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits?

Comforting Warmth: The classic combination of creamy grits and succulent shrimp creates a hearty dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Rich Flavor Profile: Infused with aromatic garlic and zesty lemon, each bite bursts with layered flavors that will delight your taste buds.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in just an hour, so you can enjoy a homemade meal without the hassle.
Versatile Ingredients: Swap in cauliflower grits for a lighter option or replace shrimp with chicken for a different twist.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Impress your family or guests with this Southern classic that’s sure to leave everyone raving about their meal!
Creative Pairings: Serve it alongside cornbread or a refreshing salad for a complete feast that will satisfy everyone at the table!

Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Ingredients

For the Grits

Stone-ground grits – The heart of the dish, offering a creamy texture. Consider using cauliflower grits for a lighter option!
Water or chicken broth – The cooking liquid that enhances flavor; halal options available for dietary needs.
Unsalted butter – Adds richness and flavor; can be omitted for a dairy-free version.
Shredded cheddar cheese – Provides creaminess and indulgence; optional for a lighter twist.
Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings to taste; adjust based on your broth’s sodium content.

For the Shrimp

Large shrimp – The star protein, peeled and deveined for your convenience.
Olive oil – Ideal for sautéing shrimp; butter can be a suitable substitute.
Garlic – This aromatic addition amplifies the dish’s flavor profile; mince for an even distribution.
Paprika – Introduces a mild smokiness; adjust the quantity to meet your heat preference.
Cayenne pepper – For some added kick; modify according to your taste!
Lemon juice – Brightens the dish with fresh acidity, bringing everything together.

For Garnish

Fresh parsley & green onions – These add vibrancy and freshness, enhancing your dish visually and flavor-wise.

Enjoy crafting this comforting Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits masterpiece!

How to Make Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits

Prepare Grits: In a pot, combine water or chicken broth and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Gradually stir in stone-ground grits, reduce the heat, and simmer while stirring frequently until they are creamy, about 20-25 minutes.
Add Cheese & Butter: Once the grits are fully cooked and creamy, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and unsalted butter. Mix until melted and combined, and then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Sauté Garlic: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, taking about 1 minute. This is when the aroma of garlic will start to fill your kitchen!
Cook Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, approximately 3-4 minutes. Finally, drizzle in the lemon juice and gently toss to coat the shrimp with all those delightful flavors.
Serve: Spoon the creamy grits into bowls, top with the zesty sautéed shrimp, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and green onions for a burst of color and freshness. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Optional: Serve with a side of cornbread to soak up all the delicious flavors!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth for a creamy texture.

Freezer: While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the grits separately from the shrimp for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: For the best results, reheat the grits and shrimp separately on low heat to maintain texture and flavor. Avoid the microwave if possible.

Assembled Dish: Avoid freezing the assembled dish, as the grits may become watery upon thawing. Store components separately for optimal quality.

Make Ahead Options

These Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the grits up to 24 hours in advance by cooking them until creamy, then letting them cool before refrigerating in an airtight container. For the sautéed shrimp, you can season and marinate them in the fridge for up to 3 days before cooking. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the grits on the stove with a splash of water or broth to restore their creamy texture, and then cook the marinated shrimp in a skillet until they turn pink and opaque while adding a squeeze of lemon juice. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious homemade comfort on busy weeknights without the fuss!

Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Variations

Feel free to play around with this classic recipe to make it your own and tantalize your taste buds!

Cauliflower Grits: Swap stone-ground grits with cauliflower grits for a low-carb, lighter option. You’ll still enjoy that creamy texture without guilt!
Plant-Based Protein: Substitute shrimp with grilled or sautéed tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian twist that keeps the dish hearty and satisfying.
Cajun Kick: Enhance the spice level by using Cajun seasoning instead of paprika and cayenne. This will add a depth of flavor that will elevate your dish.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs such as thyme or dill into the sautéed shrimp for a fragrant twist that brightens up the dish beautifully.
Cheesy Delight: Go wild with cheese! Add cream cheese along with cheddar for an ultra-creamy and indulgent base that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Nutty Goodness: Top your dish with chopped, toasted pecans before serving. Their crunch adds an unexpected texture and nutty flavor.
Zesty Citrus: For a fun twist, try orange juice instead of lemon for a sweeter, fruitier hint that complements the shrimp beautifully.
Tropical Inspiration: Add diced pineapple to the sautéed shrimp for a sweet and savory combination that transports your taste buds to the tropics!

What to Serve with Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits?

To create a wonderfully satisfying meal, you’ll want to think about perfect pairings that will enhance this comforting dish.

Cornbread: This Southern classic adds a delightful sweetness and the perfect texture to soak up the creamy grits and savory shrimp.
Collard Greens: Adding a side of these tender, tangy greens provides a nutritious contrast that balances the richness of the shrimp and grits.
Fresh Garden Salad: A refreshing salad with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette brings bright flavors that enhance the overall meal.
Fried Green Tomatoes: Their crispy exterior and tart flavor create a lovely contrast to the creamy grits, making each bite a new experience.
Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up any leftover grits, this addition provides extra flavor and a comforting crunch.
Mango Salsa: For a burst of fresh sweetness, a vibrant mango salsa will brighten the dish with colorful flavors that balance the spiciness of the shrimp.
Sweet Tea: A classic Southern beverage, its cool sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory richness of shrimp and grits, making it a quintessential choice.
Peach Cobbler: For dessert, this deliciously sweet dish rounds off your meal with a delightful warmth that stays true to Southern traditions.

With these pairings, your meal will envelop you in the warmth of Lowcountry cuisine and create unforgettable moments around the table!

Expert Tips for Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits

Choose Quality Grits: Opt for stone-ground grits for the best texture. Instant grits may lack depth of flavor and creaminess; avoid them if possible.
Perfect Shrimp Timing: Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should turn pink and opaque within 3-4 minutes. Overcooked shrimp become tough and chewy.
Lemon Brightness: Always add lemon juice at the end of cooking. This keeps the citrus flavor vibrant and fresh—don’t skip it!
Adjust Spice Levels: Be mindful of paprika and cayenne; start with less if unsure, and taste before adding more. You can always spice it up but can’t take it out.
Enhance Creaminess: For ultra-creamy grits, use half-and-half or cream instead of broth or water. This elevates your Lowcountry shrimp and grits to a whole new level!

Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe FAQs

What type of grits should I use for Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits?
Absolutely! I recommend using stone-ground grits for the best flavor and texture. They offer a creaminess that instant grits simply can’t match. If you’re looking for a lighter version, try swapping in cauliflower grits; they work beautifully!

How should I store leftovers of Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits?
Very good question! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your dish again, reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to bring back that luscious creaminess.

Can I freeze Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits?
Certainly! While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the grits separately from the shrimp for up to 2 months. To freeze, cool the grits completely then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What if my shrimp are overcooked?
Don’t worry; it happens to the best of us! If your shrimp turn out tough, try lowering the cooking time to about 2-3 minutes until they just turn pink and opaque. That way, you can achieve a tender, juicy texture that makes this dish shine.

Are there any dietary considerations for Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits?
Definitely! To accommodate various dietary needs, you can substitute the unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative, and ensure your chicken broth is halal if serving to guests with those requirements. Enjoy it with peace of mind knowing everyone’s included!

What should I serve alongside Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits?
The more the merrier! Pair it with cornbread for a traditional touch, or a fresh garden salad if you’re looking for a lighter side. Both options complement the rich flavors of the dish perfectly and make your meal feel even more complete!