Real stone-ground grits and head-on Gulf shrimp are the whole dish; instant grits and frozen cocktail shrimp make something else entirely. The grits need time to come right, so cook them low for a full 30 to 40 minutes and keep whisking. That slow patience is what turns them creamy instead of grainy.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep15 min
Cook30 min
Makes4 servings
CuisineAmerican
Cost$$$
Gluten-free
Contains dairy · shellfish
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for4servings
Stone-ground grits
Coarse stone-ground grits keep a little bite and taste of corn; instant grits go to paste.
1 cup
Local / market
Fresh shrimp, peeled
Fresh Gulf shrimp are sweet and firm; peel them yourself and save the shells for a quick stock.
Start the gritsBring 4 cups water and 1 tsp salt to a boil, whisk in the grits, drop to low, and cook 30-40 minutes, whisking often, until creamy.
Finish the gritsStir in the cheddar and butter off the heat; cover and keep warm. Loosen with hot water if they set up.
Render the baconCook chopped bacon in a skillet until crisp, then lift it out and leave the fat behind.
Sear the shrimpToss shrimp with the Cajun seasoning, then sear in the bacon fat over high heat 90 seconds a side until just opaque and pink.
Build the pan sauceAdd garlic and scallion whites, splash in a little water, and swirl 30 seconds. Spoon shrimp and pan sauce over the grits and top with bacon.
Can you make Shrimp and Grits in an air fryer? — Sometimes
Sometimes — if the pieces are small and cooked dry, an air fryer can handle it in a single layer; anything saucy or liquid needs a pan. When in doubt, the stovetop or oven is the safe call.
Can you freeze Shrimp and Grits? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Shrimp and Grits ahead of time? — Partly
The components hold — prep the parts ahead and finish it close to serving for the best texture.
Is Shrimp and Grits gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is Shrimp and Grits vegan? — No
No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.
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