charleston sc shrimp and grits recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best charleston sc shrimp and grits recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite Charleston SC shrimp and grits recipe. This dish is a staple in the Lowcountry region of South Carolina, where the rich history and culture come alive in every bite. As a food blogger, I’ve had the pleasure of trying many different variations of this recipe, but this one remains my go-to for its simplicity, flavor, and authenticity.

The combination of succulent shrimp, creamy grits, and spicy seasonings is a match made in heaven. My family and I love it for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner – it’s that versatile! Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients from the shrimp, grits, and vegetables.

Plus, it’s easy to make in large quantities for gatherings or potlucks. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite spices and toppings. So go ahead, give it a try, and let me know what you think! I’d love to hear about your experiences and any variations you come up with.

In the meantime, I’ll be enjoying this scrumptious dish all day long.

Charleston SC Shrimp and Grits

4.6 from 1911 votes

A classic Southern dish featuring creamy grits topped with succulent shrimp in a rich, spicy tomato sauce. This recipe combines the comfort of grits with the bold flavors of Charleston.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Grits

1 cup stone-ground grits
4 cups water
1 tsp salt
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the Shrimp

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 bell pepper, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp cayenne pepper
1 cup diced tomatoes
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2Add salt and grits, stirring constantly.
3Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until grits are thick and creamy, stirring occasionally.
4If grits become too thick, add more water.
5Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
6Season with salt and pepper.
Keep warm.
7While the grits are cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
8Add onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened and slightly translucent, about 5 minutes.
9Add garlic, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, cooking for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
10Add diced tomatoes, reduce heat to low, and let simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
11Season with salt and pepper.
12Increase heat to medium-high, add butter to the skillet, and let it melt.
13Add shrimp to the skillet, cooking until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
14Stir the shrimp into the tomato mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
15Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the shrimp are fully cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly.
16If the sauce becomes too thick, add a small amount of water.
17To serve, spoon a generous amount of grits into each bowl.
18Top with shrimp and tomato mixture, ensuring each serving has an equal amount of shrimp.
19Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
20Serve immediately while hot.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan
Large skillet
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 20g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 180mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 40g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: For added heat, serve with hot sauce on the side. You can also add bacon or sausage to the shrimp mixture for extra flavor.

Watch Video Of How Charleston SC Shrimp and Grits Works

This Charleston SC shrimp and grits recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a special brunch gathering or just a quick weeknight dinner. My family loves it because it’s both comforting and flavorful.

One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability; feel free to experiment with different seasonings or ingredients to make it your own. For example, add some diced ham or bacon for added smokiness or try using different types of cheese like parmesan or cheddar for varying textures.

Whatever way you choose to make it, I’m confident you’ll enjoy every bite of this delicious Lowcountry classic.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Charleston SC Shrimp and Grits

Q: What is the difference between Charleston SC shrimp and grits and other regional variations?

A: While other regions may have their own take on shrimp and grits, the Charleston SC version is distinct due to its use of lowcountry-style seasonings like Old Bay and hot sauce. These flavors add a depth of flavor that’s quintessential to the Lowcountry.

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

A: Yes, frozen shrimp will work just fine in this recipe. Just thaw them according to package instructions before using.

Q: How do I adjust the spice level to suit my taste?

A: If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of hot sauce or omit it altogether. For an extra kick, add more hot sauce or try using different types like sriracha or cayenne pepper.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free by substituting regular grits with cornmeal?

A: While cornmeal can be used as a substitute in some recipes, it won’t provide the same texture as regular grits. However, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, consider using gluten-free grits or polenta instead.

Q: How do I store leftover shrimp and grits for later use?

A: Store cooked shrimp and grits in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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