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Lemon-Garlic Shrimp and Grits is a delicious blend of creamy, cheesy grits paired with tender, flavorful shrimp that’s brightened by fresh lemon and garlic.
What makes this recipe special is its balance of rich and zesty flavors, perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal.
High in protein (34 grams per serving) thanks to the shrimp, this dish supports muscle health and satiety.
The grits provide a comforting, low-fat base with moderate carbohydrates, making it an energizing choice without heaviness.
Plus, the use of fresh herbs and a hint of cayenne pepper adds antioxidants and a metabolism boost.
This recipe is an ideal weeknight option because it comes together in just 20 minutes, requires minimal prep, and works beautifully for meal prep or casual entertaining.
It’s naturally gluten-free, making it accessible for many dietary needs while offering classic Southern comfort with a fresh twist.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Medium Saucepan
Essential for cooking the grits evenly, a good-quality saucepan with a heavy bottom prevents scorching and ensures a smooth, creamy texture. A versatile piece, perfect for soups, sauces, and boiling.
Large Skillet
This is where the shrimp gets perfectly seared. A nonstick or stainless steel skillet helps achieve even cooking and easy tossing, making it great for sautéing meats and veggies alike.
Whisk
Used to gradually incorporate grits into boiling water without clumping, a sturdy whisk promotes smooth consistency. It’s an indispensable tool for sauces, batters, and emulsifying dressings.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements are key to balancing seasoning and ingredient ratios, especially for grits and shrimp seasoning. Precision tools elevate your cooking from guesswork to consistent success.
Citrus Juicer (optional)
To extract fresh lemon juice effortlessly, a handheld or tabletop juicer maximizes yield and minimizes mess. Fresh juice brightens many dishes, so this tool is a kitchen game-changer.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Grits
Equipment
- 1 Medium saucepan
- 1 Large skillet
- 1 Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- (Optional) Citrus juicer
Ingredients
- ¾ cup instant grits
- 3 cups water
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt divided
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper divided
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
- 1 ¼ pounds medium shrimp peeled and deveined (leave tails on)
- 2 large garlic cloves finely minced
- Pinch of cayenne pepper optional, for a little heat
- Juice of half a lemon plus lemon wedges for serving
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley roughly chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Grits Base: Bring 3 cups of water to a rolling boil in a medium saucepan over high heat, covered to speed the process. Once boiling, remove the lid and gradually whisk in the instant grits along with half the salt (1/2 teaspoon) and half the pepper (1/4 teaspoon). Lower the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally to prevent lumps, until the grits thicken and become creamy—about 5 minutes.
- Enrich the Grits: Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in the Parmesan cheese and 1 tablespoon of butter until melted and fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning with the remaining salt and pepper as needed. Cover the saucepan to keep warm while you prepare the shrimp.
- Season and Sauté the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels, then season them evenly with salt and pepper. Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.Once melted and hot, add the minced garlic and, if using, the cayenne pepper, stirring briefly until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and are opaque throughout, roughly 3 to 4 minutes total. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
- Finish with Lemon and Herbs: Remove the skillet from heat and pour in 2 tablespoons of water along with the fresh lemon juice. Stir gently to create a light sauce that coats the shrimp. Sprinkle the chopped parsley on top and toss to combine. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if necessary.
- Plate and Serve: Divide the warm grits evenly among four shallow bowls. Spoon the lemon-garlic shrimp and their sauce over the grits. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for extra brightness.
Notes
- Instant vs. Regular Grits: Instant grits cook quickly but have a slightly different texture than stone-ground. For a more traditional, hearty feel, use stone-ground grits but increase cooking time accordingly.
- Shrimp Prep: Keeping the tails on adds flavor and makes for an attractive presentation, but you can remove them for easier eating.
- Adjusting Spice: The cayenne pepper is optional. For a milder dish, leave it out or reduce the amount.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the grits in advance and gently reheat with a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess. Shrimp is best cooked fresh but can be cooked ahead and reheated quickly.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed greens or a crisp side salad for added texture and nutrition.
Chef’s Insider Tips for Excellence
Mastering Lemon-Garlic Shrimp and Grits hinges on a few key details.
First, choosing high-quality shrimp makes a significant difference; fresh or properly thawed shrimp will yield a better texture and flavor.
When cooking grits, gradually whisking them into boiling water prevents clumping and ensures a smooth, creamy base.
Don’t rush the thickening process — gentle simmering and occasional stirring develop the perfect consistency.
Using freshly grated Parmesan adds a rich, savory note that melts beautifully into the grits.
When sautéing the shrimp, keep the heat medium-high to get a quick sear without overcooking, which keeps the shrimp tender and juicy.
Adding lemon juice at the end brightens the dish and balances the richness.
Lastly, fresh parsley isn’t just garnish — it adds a fresh herbaceous contrast that complements the flavors perfectly.
Serving Suggestions for Best Pairings
This vibrant dish pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides to balance its richness.
Consider serving alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or steamed seasonal greens like broccoli or green beans.
For added texture, roasted vegetables such as asparagus or bell peppers work beautifully.
If you want to keep it hearty, a slice of crusty bread or garlic toast can soak up the flavorful sauce.
Lemon wedges on the side allow guests to customize brightness, while a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio can elevate the meal.
For a brunch twist, serve with poached eggs on the side or a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
Smart Storage Tips for Freshness
Leftover Lemon-Garlic Shrimp and Grits should be stored separately for best texture and flavor.
Place shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days, while grits can stay fresh for 3 to 4 days if covered tightly.
When reheating grits, add a splash of water or milk and warm gently over low heat to restore creaminess without drying out.
Shrimp can be quickly reheated in a skillet or microwave, but avoid overheating to keep them tender.
Avoid freezing this dish as the texture of shrimp and grits can degrade significantly, resulting in a less pleasant experience.
Always check leftovers for freshness and discard if they develop off-odors or sliminess.
Common Questions About This Recipe
Q1: Can I use regular grits instead of instant?
Yes! Regular or stone-ground grits will give a heartier texture but require longer cooking time — about 20 to 30 minutes. Adjust your schedule accordingly and add water gradually for best results.
Q2: What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheeses are great alternatives and add a slightly different flavor profile while still providing that savory, cheesy richness.
Q3: How do I prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery?
Cook shrimp quickly over medium-high heat just until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking is the main cause of rubbery shrimp, so keep a close eye on them.
Q4: Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it naturally is gluten-free as long as you use certified gluten-free grits and check your Parmesan for additives.
Q5: Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine, and use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative in place of Parmesan.
This recipe is inspired by foodnetwork and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.