spicy shrimp and grits recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
spicy shrimp and grits recipe
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe
Table of Contents▼

The Best spicy shrimp and grits recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite spicy shrimp and grits recipe. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend brunch, this recipe never fails to impress.

The combination of spicy shrimp, creamy grits, and a hint of smokiness from the bacon is absolute perfection. My kids love it when I serve it with a side of steamed broccoli or a simple green salad, and my husband requests it whenever he’s feeling under the weather. I’ve even made it for holiday gatherings and potlucks, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. For example, you can add diced onions or bell peppers for added flavor or use different types of cheese for a unique twist.

I like to serve it with a dollop of sour cream on top to cool down the heat from the shrimp. My family loves this recipe because it’s hearty, comforting, and full of flavor without being too heavy or rich. And let’s not forget about the health benefits – shrimp is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, while grits provide sustained energy thanks to their high carb content.

So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and enjoy the ooohs and ahhhs from your loved ones as you serve up this delicious dish!

Spicy Shrimp and Grits

Spicy Shrimp and Grits

4.8 from 1230 votes

A Southern classic with a kick, featuring creamy grits topped with spicy shrimp in a rich, flavorful sauce. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Grits

1 cup stone-ground grits
4 cups water
1 tsp salt

For the Shrimp

1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 bell pepper, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp water
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring water and salt to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat.
2Add grits, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook, stirring frequently, until grits are thick and creamy, about 20-25 minutes.
3If grits become too thick, add a little more water.
4Set aside and keep warm.
5While the grits are cooking, Toss shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl.
6Ensure the shrimp are evenly coated.
Set aside.
7Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
8Add onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, garlic, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
9Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
10Add chicken broth, and heavy cream to the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer.
11Stir in the cornstarch and water mixture until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
12Add the shrimp to the skillet, and cook until they turn pink and are slightly curled, about 3-5 minutes.
13Do not overcook the shrimp, as they will become tough.
14Stir in the chopped parsley and remove the skillet from the heat.
15Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
16Serve the shrimp and sauce over the creamy grits and enjoy.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan
Large skillet
Wooden spoon
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: For a milder dish, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. You can also add other vegetables like mushrooms or okra to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.

Watch Video Of How Spicy Shrimp and Grits Works

This spicy shrimp and grits recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend brunch.

The leftovers are also incredibly versatile; simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Reheat as needed by warming the grits with some milk or cream until heated through, then add warmed shrimp on top.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Spicy Shrimp and Grits

What type of grits should I use?

I recommend using stone-ground grits for this recipe as they have a coarser texture and nuttier flavor compared to steel-ground grits.

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

While frozen shrimp will still yield great results, I highly recommend using fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.

How do I adjust the spice level to my liking?

If you prefer a milder dish, simply reduce the amount of hot sauce or omit it altogether. For an extra kick, add more hot sauce or incorporate diced jalapeños into the recipe.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time but assemble and cook the dish just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover spicy shrimp and grits?

To reheat leftover grits, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream until heated through. For the shrimp, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

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.

Similar Posts