A white shallow bowl of shrimp and grits with bacon, photographed from above.

Shrimp and Grits

Creamy stone-ground grits topped with saucy shrimp, bacon, and scallions. A beloved Lowcountry Southern brunch dish.

Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
25 min
Total Time
40 min
Servings
4 servings
Calories
470 kcal

Ingredients

4 servings

Instructions

  1. Bring water and milk to a boil. Whisk in grits, reduce heat, and cook 20 minutes until thick, stirring often.

  2. Stir cheddar into the grits; keep warm.

  3. Cook bacon in a skillet until crisp; remove and leave the fat.

  4. Add shrimp and garlic to the bacon fat; cook 2 to 3 minutes until pink.

  5. Splash in lemon juice and toss with the bacon.

  6. Spoon shrimp over the grits and top with scallions.

Nutrition

Per serving, estimated.

Calories
470 kcal
Protein
30g
Carbs
38g
Fat
21g
Fiber
2g

Tips

  • Use stone-ground grits for the best texture; instant grits are gummy.
  • Stir the grits often so they do not stick or clump.
  • Do not overcook the shrimp; they turn rubbery fast.

Variations

  • Add a pinch of cayenne to the shrimp.
  • Stir smoked gouda into the grits.
  • Use andouille sausage instead of bacon.

Frequently Asked Questions