Traditional Shrimp and Grits

2022-11-02

By Southern Comfort Cookin

Southern Cuisine

Main Course

How to Make Perfect Shrimp and Grits with Slow Cooker, Instant Pot, and Air Fryer: Creamy, Savory, and Quick

Slow Cooker Shrimp and Grits: Creamy, Flavorful Grits and Juicy Shrimp in Just 4-5 Hours

Use the slow cooker to cook your grits by setting it on "Low" for 4-5 hours. Add your seasonings, butter, and stock to the grits for a creamy base. Once done, quickly sauté your shrimp using the "Saute" function on the stove or Instant Pot, and top your grits with the shrimp for a perfect meal.

Instant Pot Shrimp and Grits: Quick and Savory Meal in Under 20 Minutes with Pressure Cooking

Use the Instant Pot’s "Saute" function to cook the shrimp and aromatics like garlic and onions. After setting the shrimp aside, use the "Pressure Cook" function to prepare your grits in under 10 minutes. Combine the two for a speedy and savory shrimp and grits dish.

Air Fryer Shrimp and Grits: Crispy, Juicy Shrimp with Creamy Grits in Just 15 Minutes

The air fryer is perfect for cooking shrimp quickly. Season your shrimp, then cook them at 400°F for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through. While the shrimp cooks, prepare your grits on the stovetop or induction cooker, then combine for a crispy and creamy shrimp and grits dish.

Tips and Suggestions on Shrimp and Grits

Cooking the grits

Grits are a staple in Southern cuisine and are made from ground cornmeal. Getting the texture of the grits right can be a challenge, as they can easily become lumpy or too thick. It's important to whisk the grits often while cooking and to add liquid slowly to avoid clumping. Using a combination of milk and water can also add richness and creaminess to the grits.

Flavoring the grits

Grits should be seasoned to taste with salt and pepper, but they can be enhanced with additional flavors such as cheese, garlic, or scallions. Adding butter or cream can also help create a more indulgent and flavorful base for the shrimp.

Preparing the shrimp

Shrimp should be peeled, deveined, and cleaned thoroughly before cooking. Overcooking shrimp can make them tough and rubbery, so it's important to cook them just until they turn pink. Adding garlic, lemon, and herbs can also enhance the flavor of the shrimp.

Making the sauce

A flavorful sauce is crucial for shrimp and grits, and can be made from butter, garlic, chicken stock, and white wine. It's important to reduce the sauce until it's thick and glossy and to season it with salt and pepper to taste.

Timing and plating

Shrimp and grits is best when served hot, and timing the cooking of the grits, shrimp, and sauce can be challenging. It's important to have all components ready and to plate them immediately to prevent any of the ingredients from getting cold or soggy. Plating the grits first and topping them with the shrimp and sauce can showcase the layers of flavor in this dish.

Experimentation

Shrimp and grits is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit individual tastes. Some people prefer to add bacon, sausage, or ham to the dish, while others like to include vegetables such as spinach or tomatoes. Experimenting with different flavor combinations can add creativity and fun to this Southern classic.

Classic Shrimp and Grits Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 cup quick-cooking grits
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1/4 cup bacon, diced
  • 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
  • 1/4 cup white onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup celery, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp butter

Instructions

  1. In a medium pot, bring the water to a boil. Stir in the grits and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grits are tender.
  2. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, cook the shrimp until pink and no longer translucent. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  5. In the same skillet, cook the green onions, white onion, celery, and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
  6. Stir in the Cajun seasoning and chicken broth, scraping any bits from the bottom of the skillet.
  7. Return the shrimp and bacon to the skillet and stir in the butter until melted and evenly distributed.
  8. Serve hot over the grits with extra green onions for garnish.

Cooking Time

Preparation Time 20 min

Cook Time 30 min

Total time 50 min

Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: 480
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Carbohydrates: 41 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 0 g
  • Protein: 27 g

Variations for Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp and Grits with Sweet Potato

This version is made by pairing succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic and spices with creamy, buttery grits infused with sweet potato.

Parmesan Purple Sweet Potato Grits with Creole Shrimp

Shrimp and Grits with Rosemary

This version is made by sautéing shrimp in olive oil with fragrant rosemary and garlic, served over herby grits.

Rosemary Shrimp Sweet Potato Grits

Shrimp and Grits Brown Stew

This version is made by simmering shrimp in a rich, savory brown stew sauce, served over creamy, stone-ground grits for a comforting dish.

Brown Stew Shrimp with Sweet Potato Grits

Shrimp and Grits with Curry

This version is made by infusing succulent shrimp with aromatic curry spices, served over coconut-infused grits for a delightful twist.

Coconut Curry Shrimp & Grits

Greek Shrimp and Grits

This version is made by combining tender shrimp with Mediterranean flavors like feta, olives, and herbs, served over lemon-infused grits.

Greek Shrimp and Grits (Shrimp Saganaki Grits)

Cajun Shrimp and Grits

This version is made by sautéing shrimp in zesty Cajun spices and serving them over creamy, buttery grits for a soulful dish.

Cajun Style Shrimp and Grits, Lightened Up

Sriracha Shrimp and Grits

This version is made by tossing succulent shrimp in a spicy Sriracha sauce, served over flavorful, creamy grits for an irresistible kick.

Sriracha Sesame Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp and Grits Recipe Review

Go to Top