Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits is a beloved Southern comfort food. Succulent shrimp and smoky andouille sausage are smothered in a savory gravy and served over creamy, cheesy grits. This dish, inspired by South Carolina’s Lowcountry, brings authentic flavors to your table and is perfect for dinner.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Cheese Grits

• 1 cup grits
• 4 cups water (or replace half with milk for creamier grits)
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 Tbsp butter
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Shrimp Mixture

• 4 Tbsp butter, divided
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 Tbsp Creole seasoning, divided
• 6 oz andouille sausage, sliced
• ½ small onion, diced
• ½ red bell pepper, diced
• ½ green bell pepper, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 2 Tbsp flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 Tbsp heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Cheese Grits

1. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil over high heat. Add salt and stir in grits. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring frequently, until cooked (refer to package for cooking time).
2. Remove from heat and stir in butter and cheddar cheese. If the grits thicken too much, add additional water to achieve the desired consistency.

Shrimp Mixture

1. Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and 1 tsp of Creole seasoning.
2. Melt 2 Tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove to a plate.
3. Add sausage to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides. Remove to the plate with shrimp.
4. Add remaining butter, onion, bell peppers, and celery to the skillet. Sauté until softened.
5. Add garlic, flour, and remaining Creole seasoning. Stir well. Gradually add chicken broth while stirring continuously. Bring to a low boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes.
6. Taste the gravy and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Stir in the shrimp, sausage, and heavy cream. Cook for 1–2 minutes.
7. Serve the shrimp mixture over the cheese grits.

Nutrients

• Serving Size: 1
• Calories: 638
• Total Fat: 44g
• Saturated Fat: 23g
• Cholesterol: 349mg
• Sodium: 3552mg
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Protein: 40g

Key Ingredients that Define the Dish

One of the reasons Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits is so iconic is its use of fresh, local ingredients. The shrimp, often sourced straight from the Atlantic coast, bring a sweetness and brininess to the dish that balances the creamy richness of the grits. Andouille sausage, a smoked pork sausage with Cajun origins, adds a spicy, smoky depth that complements the shrimp perfectly. The savory gravy, made with a medley of aromatics like onions, bell peppers, celery, and garlic, ties everything together.

Cheese grits, the base of the dish, are a comfort food on their own. The creamy texture and sharpness of the cheddar cheese provide a perfect counterpoint to the bold flavors of the shrimp and sausage. This combination of textures and flavors makes shrimp and grits not only filling but deeply satisfying.

A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion

Although it originated as a simple breakfast meal, Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits has become a versatile dish suitable for any time of day or occasion. It can be dressed up for a formal dinner or served casually as a family-style meal. Many chefs and home cooks have created their own variations, incorporating everything from bacon and tomatoes to fresh herbs and hot sauce to add a personal touch. Despite these modern adaptations, the dish maintains its essential Lowcountry roots.

In recent years, shrimp and grits have become a staple in Southern-inspired restaurants across the country. Its appeal lies in its balance of simplicity and elegance—a dish that feels both rustic and refined. It’s also an ideal comfort food, evoking feelings of warmth and nostalgia for anyone with ties to the South.

Cooking Techniques That Elevate the Recipe

The preparation of Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits may seem straightforward, but attention to detail is what separates a good dish from an exceptional one. Achieving the perfect consistency for the grits is key; they should be creamy and smooth, not lumpy or runny. Using a combination of water and milk while cooking grits enhances their creaminess, while the addition of butter and cheese elevates their flavor.

For the shrimp mixture, properly seasoning the shrimp with Creole seasoning is crucial for depth of flavor. Cooking the shrimp quickly over medium-high heat ensures they stay tender and juicy. Browning the andouille sausage in the same skillet builds a flavorful base for the gravy, as the rendered fat infuses the dish with smoky richness.

The gravy itself requires a delicate balance. Sautéing the onions, peppers, and celery until softened releases their natural sweetness, while the garlic and Creole seasoning add complexity. Gradually incorporating chicken broth prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, velvety texture. Finishing with heavy cream adds just the right amount of indulgence, making the gravy luxurious without overpowering the other elements.

Why Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Is a Culinary Treasure

Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits embodies the heart and soul of Southern cuisine. It’s a dish that tells a story—of fishermen pulling fresh shrimp from the waters, of cooks blending African, Native American, and European influences, and of families gathering around the table to share a meal. It represents the resilience and creativity of the Southern people, who transformed humble ingredients into something extraordinary.

This dish is also a celebration of seasonality and locality, relying on fresh shrimp, regional spices, and pantry staples like grits. It highlights the importance of using quality ingredients to create flavors that are both comforting and vibrant. Whether served at a high-end restaurant or made in a home kitchen, Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits captures the essence of the South in every bite.

Tips for Serving and Enjoying Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits

While the dish itself is already a standout, there are several ways to enhance the dining experience:

• Pairings: Serve it alongside cornbread or a light salad to add contrast and texture to the meal.
• Beverages: Pair it with a glass of sweet tea, a crisp white wine, or a light beer to complement the dish’s rich and savory flavors.
• Presentation: For a polished presentation, garnish with fresh parsley, green onions, or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

This dish is also an excellent conversation starter, as it provides an opportunity to share the history and cultural significance behind it. Whether you’re serving it to family, friends, or guests, it’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

Conclusion

Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits is a timeless classic that continues to captivate hearts and palates. Its origins, steeped in tradition and resourcefulness, reflect the cultural melting pot of the South. From its creamy, cheesy grits to its succulent shrimp and savory gravy, every element of the dish is designed to bring comfort and joy.

As you enjoy this dish, take a moment to appreciate the rich history and culinary ingenuity that made it possible. Whether you’re savoring it in the comfort of your home or at a restaurant, Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits is a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our roots and to each other.