Name: BBQ Shrimp and Grits
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: PT-487115H39M37S
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy cream; 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon freshly ground white pepper; 1 cup grits; ¼ pound bacon, diced; ½ cup finely diced red onion; ½ cup diced green bell pepper; ½ cup diced red bell pepper; 1–4 tablespoons whiskey (e.g., Southern Comfort); Two 14-ounce bottles ketchup; ½ cup brown sugar; Kosher salt and freshly ground white pepper, to taste; 1½ pounds large shrimp, peeled, tails removed and deveined; Shredded extra-sharp cheddar, for serving; Diced scallions, for serving

A comforting Southern classic elevated with tangy barbecue flavors, tender shrimp, and creamy cheese-infused grits. This dish combines the rich depth of a savory shrimp sauté with the silky texture of perfectly cooked grits, making it both luxurious and approachable for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold Southern flavors with a balance of tang, smoke, and spice
Creamy, cheesy grits made from stone-ground corn for an authentic texture
Simple, year-round ingredients that are easy to assemble
Ready in about one hour, ideal for both weeknights and weekend gatherings

ingredients

olive oil
yellow onion
stone-ground grits
water
sharp Cheddar cheese
salt
ground black pepper
large shrimp, peeled and deveined
smoked paprika
ground cumin
vinegar-based Carolina-style barbecue sauce
unsalted butter
minced garlic

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

directions

Prepare the grits: In a medium saucepan, bring 6 cups of water to a boil. Stir in 2 cups of stone-ground grits and 2½ teaspoons of salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until tender, about 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese and 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and creamy.
Sauté the aromatics: Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Cook the shrimp: Increase heat to medium-high. Add the shrimp, season with smoked paprika, cumin, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Sauté until the shrimp turn pink and curl, about 2–3 minutes per side.
Glaze with BBQ sauce: Pour in the barbecue sauce and add the butter. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the shrimp, about 1–2 minutes.
Assemble and serve: Spoon the cheesy grits onto plates and top with the glazed shrimp. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the dish and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives, if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

Andouille sausage: Slice and sauté along with the onion for a heartier version.
Parmesan grits: Substitute half of the Cheddar with freshly grated Parmesan for sharper flavor.
Spicy kick: Add cayenne pepper to the shrimp seasoning or serve with hot sauce.
Creamy grits: Replace half of the water with milk or cream for extra richness.
Vegetable medley: Fold in sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach with the aromatics.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store shrimp and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep grits separately for best texture; they will keep for up to 1 day.
Reheating shrimp: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed, or bake at 175 °C (350 °F) for 8–10 minutes.
Reheating grits: Transfer to a saucepan, add ¼ cup of milk or stock, and reheat over low heat, stirring until creamy, about 5 minutes.

FAQs

What are grits made from?

Grits are coarsely ground dried corn kernels, traditionally stone-ground to preserve texture and flavor. They are a staple of Southern cuisine.

Which type of grits should I use?

Stone-ground grits offer the best flavor and texture but take 20–30 minutes to cook. Quick grits cook in about 7 minutes, and instant grits in 1–2 minutes, though they may be less flavorful.

Can I use instant grits?

Yes. Follow the package instructions for water ratio and cooking time, then adjust seasonings and cheese to taste.

How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Reheat grits over low heat with a splash of milk or broth, stirring until smooth. Warm shrimp gently in a skillet with a bit of liquid to prevent overcooking.

Can I substitute shrimp with another protein?

Yes. Andouille sausage, diced chicken, or firm tofu can replace shrimp. Adjust cooking times so the alternative protein is fully cooked.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, provided you use gluten-free barbecue sauce and verify that any spice blends contain no gluten.

Can I prepare any components in advance?

Cook the grits and store them as directed. Prepare the shrimp mixture just before serving for optimal texture and flavor.

What side dishes pair well with BBQ shrimp and grits?

Crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, collard greens, or a crusty baguette complement the dish nicely.

How can I thicken the barbecue sauce if it is too thin?

Simmer the sauce a few extra minutes, or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water) until it reaches the desired consistency.

Can I make this dish spicier or milder?

Adjust the amount of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper, or choose a milder barbecue sauce to suit your preference.

Conclusion

BBQ Shrimp and Grits is a spectacular fusion of Southern comfort and bold barbecue character, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. With its creamy grits, tangy shrimp, and versatile variations, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors and textures, and feel free to customize it to suit your taste and occasion.