charleston sc shrimp and grits recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
charleston sc shrimp and grits recipe
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The Best charleston sc shrimp and grits recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – Charleston SC Shrimp and Grits. This dish is a staple in the Lowcountry region of South Carolina, where shrimp are plentiful and grits are a comforting staple. The combination of succulent shrimp, creamy grits, and a hint of spice is absolute perfection. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is always a hit when we have family gatherings or special occasions.

I love how easy it is to make, yet it’s impressive enough for company. Plus, the health benefits of this dish are numerous – shrimp are packed with protein and omega-3s, while grits provide sustained energy from complex carbohydrates. And let’s not forget the flavor! The slightly smoky taste of the shrimp pairs beautifully with the rich, velvety texture of the grits.

It’s a match made in heaven, if you ask me. Growing up in the South, I was raised on traditional Southern cuisine – and this dish is right at the top of my list. My grandmother used to make it for me all the time when I was young, and I’d watch in awe as she expertly cooked up the shrimp and mixed it with those perfect little mounds of grits. It’s a dish that transports me back to those carefree summer days spent playing in her garden.

But what I love most about Charleston SC Shrimp and Grits is how adaptable it is. Whether you’re serving it at a fancy dinner party or just a quick weeknight meal, this recipe delivers every time. And let’s be real – who doesn’t love a good excuse to break out the wine glasses and enjoy a glass (or two) of Chardonnay? It’s just one of those dishes that makes you feel like life is good.

If you’re new to cooking up shrimp and grits, don’t worry – I’ve got you covered! This recipe includes all the essential tips and tricks for getting that perfect balance of flavors and textures. From there, it’s just a matter of following my lead (or should I say… your grandmother’s lead?

Ha!) Either way, trust me when I say this recipe will quickly become your go-to for any occasion.

Charleston SC Shrimp and Grits

Charleston SC Shrimp and Grits

4.5 from 547 votes

This classic Lowcountry dish features creamy stone-ground grits topped with succulent shrimp in a savory, slightly spicy gravy. It is a comforting and flavorful meal that captures the essence of Southern coastal cuisine.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Grits

1 cup stone-ground grits
4 cups water
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

For the Shrimp

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 slices bacon, chopped
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits, reduce the heat to low, and cover the pan.
3Cook the grits for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are thick and creamy and the grains are tender.
4Remove from heat and stir in the butter and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
5While the grits cook, place the chopped bacon in a medium skillet over medium heat.
6Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring often, until the bacon is crispy and the fat is rendered.
7Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving about 2 tablespoons of drippings in the skillet.
8Add the onion and green bell pepper to the skillet and cook over medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes, until softened.
9Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
10Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir constantly for 1 minute to form a light roux.
11Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps, then add the heavy cream, hot sauce, and smoked paprika.
12Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
13Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, turning once, until they turn pink and opaque.
14Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then stir in the cooked bacon.
15To serve, divide the creamy grits among four bowls and top with the shrimp and gravy.
16Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

Large saucepan
Medium skillet
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 24g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 210mg🧂Sodium: 950mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For the best texture, use stone-ground grits and avoid instant varieties. Adjust the hot sauce to your preferred spice level. If the grits become too thick before serving, stir in a splash of warm water or milk.

Watch Video Of How Charleston SC Shrimp and Grits Works

One thing you won’t have to worry about with Charleston SC Shrimp and Grits is storing leftovers – it freezes beautifully! Simply thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat straight from frozen for up to 3 months.

As for reheating ideas… well, let’s just say you’ll want to serve this deliciousness immediately after thawing (no reheating needed!)

Pair it with some crusty bread or crispy bacon for an indulgent treat your guests will never forget.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Charleston SC Shrimp and Grits

Q: What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?

A: For Charleston SC Shrimp and Grits, you’ll want to use large or extra-large shrimp – they’ll provide plenty of meaty flavor without breaking the bank.

Q: Can I substitute regular old-fashioned oats for stone-ground grits?

A: While oats can be used as a substitute in an emergency situation (just don’t expect exactly the same results), stone-ground grits offer a more authentic Lowcountry experience.

Q: How do I cook my shrimp without overcooking them?

A: To prevent overcooking your shrimp, make sure to keep an eye on them while they’re cooking – they should be opaque white with pink undertones when done.

Q: Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can cook your shrimp up to a day ahead of time (just store them in an airtight container), but assemble the final dish just before serving.

Q: Can I use other types of seafood besides shrimp?

A: While traditional Charleston SC Shrimp and Grits uses only succulent shrimp, some folks swear by using scallops or even crawfish for added variety.

Q: How do I store leftover Charleston SC Shrimp and Grits?

A: After reheating your leftovers (see below), transfer any remaining dish to an airtight container for safe storage.

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