Chef John's Shrimp and Grits
+7 photos

Chef John's Shrimp and Grits

4 servings
This shrimp and grits recipe cooks plump shrimp in a creamy Cajun sauce with bacon; serve on cheesy grits for a Southern classic that's great anytime!

Ingredients

  • slices bacon

    cut into 1/4-inch pieces

    4
  • water
    ¼ c
  • heavy whipping cream
    2 tbsp
  • lemon juice
    2 tsp
  • worcestershire sauce
    1 dash
  • water
    4 c
  • butter
    2 tbsp
  • salt
    1 tsp
  • white grits
    1 c
  • shredded white cheddar cheese
    ½ c
  • shrimp

    peeled and deveined

    1 lb
  • cajun seasoning
    ½ tsp
  • salt
    ½ tsp
  • ground black pepper
    ¼ tsp
  • cayenne pepper
    1 pinch
  • minced jalapeno pepper
    1 tbsp
  • minced green onion
    2 tbsp
  • garlic

    minced

    3 cloves
  • chopped fresh parsley
    1 tbsp

Directions

  1. 1

    Gather the ingredients.

    Step 1
  2. 2

    Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until almost crisp, 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer bacon to a dish; reserve drippings in the skillet.

    Step 2
  3. 3

    Whisk 1/4 cup water, cream, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce together in a bowl.

    Step 3
  4. 4

    Combine 4 cups water, butter, and 1 teaspoon salt in a pot; bring to a boil. Whisk in grits; bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook until creamy, 20 to 25 minutes. Off heat, stir in Cheddar cheese.

    Step 4
  5. 5

    Season shrimp with Cajun seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper in a large bowl.

    Step 5
  6. 6

    Heat bacon drippings in the skillet over high heat. Add shrimp; cook 1 minute. Flip shrimp; add jalapeño and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

    Step 6
  7. 7

    Stir cream mixture, bacon, green onion, and garlic into shrimp mixture; cook and stir until shrimp cooked through, 3 to 4 minutes, adding water as necessary to thin sauce. Off heat, stir in parsley.

    Step 7
  8. 8

    Ladle grits into a bowl; top with shrimp and sauce.

    Step 8
Chef John's Shrimp and Grits
+7

Chef John's Shrimp and Grits

4.9(367)55 min4 servings434 cal

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Ratings & Reviews

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Based on 367 ratings

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4.9(367 reviews)
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About this Recipe

Craving a hearty, flavorful start to your day that feels both indulgent and comforting? Chef John's Shrimp and Grits delivers a true taste of Southern hospitality, perfect for any breakfast or brunch. This classic dish brings restaurant-quality flavors right into your home kitchen, making it a memorable meal.

What makes this recipe truly shine is the masterful combination of textures and tastes. You'll find plump, tender shrimp bathed in a rich, creamy Cajun sauce that boasts a hint of spice and savory depth, thanks to bacon and a touch of Worcestershire. Serving it all over a bed of perfectly cooked, cheesy grits ensures every spoonful is utterly satisfying.

Expect a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite. The succulent shrimp are enveloped in a luscious, spiced sauce, featuring aromatic garlic, a bright counterpoint from lemon juice, and a subtle warmth from Cajun seasoning, minced jalapeño, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Beneath this savory topping lies a foundation of velvety white grits, generously enriched with butter and sharp white cheddar cheese, creating an irresistible creaminess. It’s a substantial, comforting dish that offers a delightful balance of richness and zest, sure to awaken your taste buds.

Customization & Variations

This versatile dish allows for a few simple adjustments to suit your preference. To temper the heat, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and minced jalapeño. If you prefer a different cheese, feel free to swap the white cheddar for another sharp, meltable variety like yellow cheddar or Monterey Jack for a slightly different flavor profile. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a dash more lemon juice or a sprinkle of your favorite hot sauce to the finished sauce.

Serve this classic Chef John's Shrimp and Grits immediately to enjoy its full warmth and creaminess. It’s an ideal dish for a leisurely breakfast, a decadent brunch, or even a comforting dinner. Garnish with the fresh green onion and chopped parsley for a vibrant finish.

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