New Orleans Shrimp and Grits: A Southern Comfort Classic with a Bold Twist

One bite of this New Orleans shrimp and grits recipe, and you’ll understand why it’s a beloved Southern classic. I still remember the first time I tasted it on a foggy evening in the French Quarter. The smell of smoky bacon, buttery shrimp, and cheesy, creamy grits wafting through a family-run kitchen had me hooked before the first spoonful.

The New Orleans shrimp and grits recipe is the kind of dish that feels fancy and comforting all at once. It works perfectly as a brunch showstopper, a special date-night meal, or even a weeknight dinner when you’re craving something rich and flavorful. It’s one of those recipes that wraps you up in warm, savory goodness from the first bite to the last.

This dish brings together silky grits with seasoned shrimp in a spicy Creole-style gravy. It’s not just a recipe, it’s an experience. With its balance of textures, bold Cajun flavors, and cozy vibes, it’s become a favorite in my kitchen, and I’m so excited to share it with you.

Why This New Orleans Shrimp and Grits Recipe Works So Well

There are lots of versions of shrimp and grits out there, but this New Orleans shrimp and grits recipe stands out because of its bold Cajun-Creole flavor base. The combination of smoky spices, sweet Gulf shrimp, and creamy stone-ground grits is pure comfort food, but with attitude.

What makes this recipe extra special is the way the shrimp are cooked. They’re not just tossed in a skillet. They’re bathed in a quick, spicy roux-based sauce with garlic, bell peppers, and Cajun seasoning. That sauce brings depth, richness, and just the right amount of heat. It clings to every bite of shrimp, giving the dish the kind of complexity you’d expect from a high-end bistro in the heart of New Orleans.

As for the grits? I go for stone-ground grits cooked slowly with broth and milk, finished with butter and cheese. The result is a luscious, creamy base that pairs beautifully with the bold shrimp.

Want to make it your own? You absolutely can. Swap out the cheese to fit your taste (sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or even goat cheese). Use vegetable broth for a pescatarian version. Or turn up the spice with hot sauce or cayenne if you like it fiery. The beauty of this New Orleans shrimp and grits recipe is how adaptable it is, without losing the soul of the dish.

Recipe Card

New Orleans Shrimp and Grits recipe

Recipe by Soukayna

0.0 from 0 votes

Cuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

25

minutes

Calories

450

kcal

This New Orleans shrimp and grits recipe pairs creamy, buttery grits with spicy, savory shrimp for an iconic Southern dish that bursts with flavor.

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Ingredients

• For the Grits

• 1 cup stone-ground grits

• 4 cups chicken broth (or water for a lighter option)

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• For the Shrimp

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1/2 cup Andouille sausage, diced (optional)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup bell pepper, diced

• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

Directions

• Step 1: Prepare the Grits
• In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil.
• Slowly whisk in the grits and reduce the heat to low.
• Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent lumps.
• Stir in butter, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and keep warm.
• Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
• Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.
• Sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
• Add the Andouille sausage (if using) and cook for another 2 minutes.
• Stir in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and shrimp. Cook shrimp until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
• Deglaze the pan with chicken broth or wine, then stir in lemon juice. Simmer for 1-2 minutes to meld flavors.
• Step 3: Plate and Serve
• Spoon grits into bowls, creating a bed for the shrimp.
• Top with the shrimp mixture, drizzling the pan sauce over everything.
• Garnish with parsley and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning for added flair.

Notes

• Use stone-ground grits for authentic texture and flavor, but quick grits can work in a pinch.
• Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level.
• For a seafood-heavy twist, add crab meat or scallops to the shrimp mixture.

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Pro Tips to Nail Your New Orleans Shrimp and Grits Recipe Every Time

• Creamy Grits Every Time: Stir grits regularly to prevent clumping and burning.
• Fresh Shrimp is Key: Opt for fresh, wild-caught shrimp for the best flavor.
• Season the Grits Generously: Grits can be bland if you don’t season them well. Cook them in chicken or vegetable broth instead of water. Add salt, plenty of butter, and a sharp cheese like aged cheddar or Parmesan for richness and flavor balance.
• Balance the Heat: If your Cajun seasoning is too spicy, add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
• Keep It Warm: Serve immediately for the best texture; grits can thicken if left to sit.
• Finish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions at the end brightens the dish and adds color contrast. It’s the little touches like this that take your shrimp and grits from good to unforgettable.

Exciting Variants to Make Your New Orleans Shrimp and Grits Recipe

1. Classic Cajun Shrimp and Grits

This is the traditional recipe with a bold Cajun spice blend, sautéed bell peppers, onions, and smoky paprika. The shrimp are cooked in a flavorful sauce of garlic, butter, and a splash of white wine or broth. The grits are creamy and cheesy, balancing the spicy shrimp perfectly. This version is ideal if you want an authentic taste of Louisiana’s signature dish.

2. Creamy Bacon and Cheddar Grits with Shrimp

Add crispy bacon to your shrimp for a smoky crunch that complements the creamy, cheesy grits. Use sharp cheddar cheese in the grits to amp up the flavor. Sauté the shrimp with garlic and butter, then toss everything together for a rich, indulgent meal perfect for brunch or dinner.

3. Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Tomato Grits

For those who love a little heat and acidity, add diced tomatoes and extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce to your shrimp sauce. The tomatoes add a nice tang and moisture, giving a fresh contrast to the creamy grits. This variant is great when you want a slightly lighter but flavorful option.

4. Shrimp and Grits with Andouille Sausage

Add slices of spicy Andouille sausage for a smoky, meaty dimension that deepens the dish’s flavor profile. The sausage simmers with the shrimp and vegetables in the sauce, making this version heartier and perfect for a special occasion or family gathering.

FAQs

Wrapping It Up

This New Orleans shrimp and grits recipe is a celebration of Southern comfort and bold flavors all in one delicious bowl. It’s perfect for a cozy weekend brunch or a special dinner that impresses without fuss. The creamy grits paired with perfectly seasoned shrimp make every bite a little taste of Louisiana.

Love Southern flavors? Try our smoked salmon brine recipe to elevate your seafood game to the next level!