Southern-Style Shrimp and Cheese Grits Skillet
A creamy Southern classic featuring tender shrimp sautéed with garlic and spices, served over rich, cheesy grits cooked to perfection in a single skillet. This comforting dinner blends buttery shrimp with sharp cheddar grits and a touch of smoky paprika for authentic Southern flavor.
Ingredients
Check ingredients as you go.
- Shrimp and Seasoning
- Grits
- Garnish
Let’s make it
Shrimp and Seasoning
In a medium bowl, season the shrimp with ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and paprika. Set aside.
Shrimp and Seasoning
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 30 grams of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Shrimp and Seasoning
Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and opaque, about 2 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside, keeping warm.
Grits
In the same skillet, bring chicken broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in grits. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, until thickened and tender, about 20 minutes.
Grits
Once grits have thickened, stir in the remaining 30 grams of butter, shredded cheddar cheese, remaining ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Finishing
Fold cooked shrimp gently into cheesy grits and warm through for 2 minutes over low heat.
Garnish
Garnish with sliced green onions and chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Tips & notes
Use stone-ground grits for authentic texture and flavor. Stir the grits frequently during cooking to prevent lumps and scorching. Adjust seasoning at the end after adding cheese.
Saving it for later
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the grits as needed. Stir frequently to ensure even heating.
