Garlic Herb Shrimp and Grits Savory Comfort Food

Looking for a dish that combines rich flavors and cozy comfort? Garlic Herb Shrimp and Grits is your answer. This savory meal showcases buttery shrimp, creamy grits, and a blend of herbs that will delight your taste buds. Join me as we explore the simple steps to create this classic comfort food, perfect for any occasion or just a cozy night in. Let’s get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food Classic: This dish combines the creamy texture of grits with the savory flavors of garlic and herbs, making it a perfect comfort food option for any occasion.
- Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a total cooking time of 35 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner when you need something delicious in a hurry.
- Flavorful Shrimp: The garlic herb shrimp is not only quick to cook but also packed with flavor, enhanced by the addition of fresh lemon juice for a bright finish.
- Customizable Dish: This recipe is versatile; you can easily adjust the seasonings or add extra ingredients like vegetables to tailor it to your taste preferences.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Garlic Herb Shrimp and Grits
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
The foundation of this dish lies in its main ingredients. Stone-ground grits bring a rich texture. They cook slowly, allowing flavors to develop. For the shrimp, I prefer large, fresh ones. They soak up the sauce and keep their bite. Unsalted butter is crucial for flavor control. Garlic adds depth and aroma. Lastly, heavy cream gives the dish a silky finish.
Seasonings and Flavor Enhancers
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
Seasonings elevate this dish. Smoked paprika adds a hint of warmth. Dried thyme and oregano provide herbal notes. Lemon juice brightens the entire dish. Fresh parsley not only adds color but also freshness. Together, these flavors create a balanced, savory experience.
Cooking Liquids
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
The choice of cooking liquid is key. Water is simple and works well. Chicken broth adds more flavor, making the grits richer. I often use broth for a creamier taste. This choice enhances the overall dish, making it more satisfying.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Grits
1. Boiling water or broth: Start by bringing 4 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil in a medium pot. Use broth for a richer taste.
2. Whisking in the stone-ground grits: Slowly add 1 cup of stone-ground grits to the boiling liquid. Whisk it in well to stop lumps.
3. Cooking time and consistency check: Once it boils again, turn down the heat. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring often. Check if the grits are creamy. If they get too thick, add more liquid.
Cooking the Shrimp
1. Sautéing garlic in butter: In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1-2 minutes. Make sure the garlic doesn’t brown.
2. Adding shrimp and seasoning: Add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season with 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Cooking time to achieve perfect shrimp: Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes, turning them halfway. They should turn pink and opaque when done.
Combining Ingredients
1. Adding heavy cream and lemon juice: Lower the heat and stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Let it simmer for 2 minutes. Squeeze in the juice of 1 lemon for brightness.
2. Blending grits for creaminess: Once the grits are done, mix in the last tablespoon of butter. Season with salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Plating instructions for presentation: Serve the grits in shallow bowls. Top with the shrimp mixture. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley for a fresh touch.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Grits
- Importance of stone-ground grits: Stone-ground grits offer a rich, nutty taste. They give a better texture than quick-cooking grits. Always choose stone-ground for the best results.
- Adjusting consistency with liquid: If your grits get too thick, add more water or broth. Stir gently to blend. Aim for a creamy feel; it should not be too runny or too stiff.
- Common mistakes to avoid: Avoid cooking grits over high heat. This can make them clump together. Stir often to prevent sticking.
Enhancing Shrimp Flavor
- Tips on marinating shrimp: Marinate shrimp for about 30 minutes. Use olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. This brings out the shrimp’s natural taste.
- Alternative spices and herbs: Try adding old bay seasoning or fresh basil. They can add unique flavors to your dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
- Cooking shrimp to prevent toughness: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink. Overcooking can make them rubbery. Remove them from heat as soon as they are opaque.
Plating Suggestions
- Elegant plating techniques: Use shallow bowls for a nice presentation. Spoon the grits first, then top with shrimp. This makes a beautiful layer effect.
- Using garnishes for visual appeal: Fresh parsley adds color and freshness. A slice of lemon on the side brightens the plate.
- Accompanying side dishes: Serve with a simple salad or crusty bread. This complements the meal and adds balance.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Whenever possible, opt for fresh shrimp over frozen for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer creamier grits, gradually add more broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce to the shrimp mixture before serving.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs like dill or chives for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.

Variations
Healthier Alternatives
You can make this dish lighter. Use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream. This keeps the creaminess while cutting calories. For a vegan option, replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or tofu. Use plant-based butter for a delicious twist. You can also swap out grits for quinoa or cauliflower rice. These choices keep the meal tasty and light.
Regional Twists
Different regions have unique styles. Southern-style grits are soft and creamy, while coastal versions might add a hint of spice. You can try adding local seafood like crab or scallops for a fresh flavor. Spices vary too; Cajun seasoning can give your dish a kick. Each twist highlights local tastes and makes the meal special.
Seasonal Ingredients
Fresh produce can enhance your dish. In spring, add asparagus or peas for a pop of color. Summer is great for tomatoes or corn, giving a sweet touch. In fall, try butternut squash for a warm flavor. Winter herbs like rosemary or sage can also bring a cozy warmth. Using seasonal ingredients keeps your dish vibrant and fresh.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep shrimp and grits fresh, store them in separate containers. Use airtight containers to prevent odors and moisture. Grits can thicken in the fridge, so add a little water when reheating. Shrimp should stay in their own container to keep the flavors intact. Remember to eat leftovers within three days for the best taste.
Reheating Methods
When you reheat shrimp and grits, you want to keep them creamy and tasty. For grits, the stovetop is best. Add a splash of water or broth to help them smooth out. Stir often over low heat until warm. For shrimp, you can use the microwave, but be careful not to overcook. Heat in short intervals, checking often.
Freezing Guidelines
If you want to freeze garlic herb shrimp and grits, do it right. Place the grits and shrimp in separate freezer-safe bags or containers. This helps keep their taste and texture. For best results, eat them within three months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop to enjoy their full flavor.
FAQs
What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?
For this recipe, large shrimp work best. They have a nice texture. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp. Fresh shrimp taste great but may not always be easy to find. Frozen shrimp are often just as good. Always check for quality. Look for shrimp that smell fresh and have a firm texture.
Can I make garlic herb shrimp and grits ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare some parts in advance. The grits can be made ahead and stored. If you do this, keep them in the fridge. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth. The shrimp should be cooked fresh for best taste. You can prep the garlic and seasonings early.
How can I modify the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, try adding chili powder or fresh peppers. This can give your dish a nice kick. You can start with a little and add more to taste. Also, adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Make the dish suit your taste buds!
Garlic herb shrimp and grits is a tasty dish rich in flavor. We covered key ingredients, cooking methods, and helpful tips. You can customize this dish with variations and perfect your plating technique. Remember to store leftovers properly for later enjoyment. Whether you cook it for a special meal or a cozy night in, this dish promises satisfaction. Explore it, make it your own, and share the joy it brings. Enjoy your cooking adventur

Garlic Herb Shrimp and Grits
Ingredients
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- to taste salt and pepper
- 1 2 heavy cream
- 1 4 fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- In a medium-sized pot, bring the water or chicken broth to a vigorous boil. Gradually whisk in the stone-ground grits to prevent lumps from forming. Once the mixture returns to a boil, reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, until the grits become creamy and thickened (approximately 20-25 minutes). Keep an eye on the consistency; if the grits become too thick, you can add more water or broth to achieve your desired creaminess.
- While the grits are simmering, heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
- Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season them with smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are pink, opaque, and cooked through.
- Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 2 minutes to combine the flavors, then remove the skillet from the heat. Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and stir everything together for a zesty finish.
- Once the grits are fully cooked, incorporate the remaining tablespoon of butter and season with salt and pepper to taste, blending until smooth and creamy.
- To serve, spoon a generous helping of the creamy grits onto each plate or shallow bowl. Top with the succulent garlic herb shrimp mixture. Finish with a generous sprinkling of chopped parsley for freshness and vibrant color.




![- 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice - 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil - 3 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon sesame oil - Salt and pepper, to taste - 1 cup mixed vegetables - 2 cloves garlic, minced - Fresh green onions, for garnish When I make Easy Shrimp Fried Rice, I always start with the main ingredients. The jasmine rice gives a lovely aroma and texture. For the shrimp, I prefer fresh, peeled, and deveined ones. They cook quickly and taste great. Seasonings are key to this dish. Soy sauce adds umami, while sesame oil gives a nutty flavor. Always remember to season with salt and pepper to bring out the taste. I love adding optional ingredients for extra flavor and color. Mixed veggies like peas and carrots add a nice crunch. Minced garlic gives it a punch, and fresh green onions on top make it look beautiful. For the full recipe, check out the details. Enjoy cooking! - First, rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water. Use your hands to stir the rice as you rinse. This helps remove excess starch. Keep rinsing until the water runs clear. Drain the rice well. - Next, take a medium saucepan. Add the rinsed rice along with 2 cups of water or low-sodium chicken broth. Bring it to a boil over high heat. Once it boils, lower the heat. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for 15 minutes. The rice will absorb the liquid and become tender. When done, fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside to cool. - Now, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 small finely chopped onion. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes. The garlic should smell nice, and the onion will turn clear. - Then, add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Spread them out evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, take them out and set them aside on a plate. - In the same skillet, toss in 1 cup of mixed vegetables. Stir-fry them for 2-3 minutes. They should soften but stay colorful. - Next, push the cooked vegetables to one side of the skillet. Pour in 2 large lightly beaten eggs on the other side. Scramble them until fully cooked and a bit golden. - Now, add the cooled jasmine rice to the skillet. Mix it in with the scrambled eggs and vegetables. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp, ensuring everything combines well. - Drizzle 3 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over the rice mixture. Stir everything well. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors mix. - Finally, take the skillet off the heat. Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch before serving. This is how you create a delicious shrimp fried rice. For the full recipe, check the section above! - Rinse rice for fluffiness: Rinsing jasmine rice helps remove excess starch. This keeps the rice from becoming sticky. Rinse it until the water runs clear. - Avoid overcooking shrimp: Cook shrimp until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery. Remove them from heat as soon as they are done. - Use low-sodium soy sauce: This allows you to control salt levels. It makes your fried rice taste good without too much sodium. - Add extra vegetables for nutrition: Toss in broccoli, peas, or bell peppers. This boosts fiber and vitamins, making your meal healthier. - Recommended garnishes: Fresh green onions add color and taste. You can also sprinkle sesame seeds for a fun crunch. - Pairing options for a complete meal: Serve with a side of steamed veggies or a light salad. This makes your meal balanced and tasty. If you want to dive deeper into the recipe, check out the Full Recipe. {{image_4}} You can easily switch out shrimp in this dish. Try using chicken or tofu instead. Both options work great. For chicken, use bite-sized pieces and cook until golden. For tofu, press it to remove water and then cube it. Sauté until crispy. These changes keep the meal tasty and fun! If you want a vegetarian dish, just leave out the shrimp. Increase the number of vegetables instead. You can add more peas, carrots, bell peppers, or even broccoli. This makes the dish colorful and healthy. Plus, you still get a yummy meal that fills you up! Want to make your fried rice pop with flavor? Add spices like chili or ginger. These spices add heat and depth. You can also mix in some citrus zest, like lemon or lime. This adds a fresh, bright taste that enhances the dish. These little changes make a big difference! Check out the Full Recipe for more ideas. To store shrimp fried rice, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the rice fresh and prevents it from drying out. You can refrigerate it for up to three days. When you want to eat it, check for any off smells or changes in texture. If you want to freeze shrimp fried rice, portion it into small containers. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. This dish can last in the freezer for about one month. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight for best results. For reheating, the stovetop is ideal. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Heat over medium heat, stirring often. You can also use the microwave. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. This way, your shrimp fried rice will taste fresh and full of flavor. For more cooking tips, you can check the [Full Recipe]. To boost flavor, use fresh ingredients. Fresh garlic, ginger, and green onions add depth. Try adding a splash of fish sauce for umami. A sprinkle of lime juice brightens the dish. For heat, add chili flakes or sriracha. Lastly, use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness. These tips help create a tasty, vibrant meal. Yes, you can prepare shrimp fried rice ahead of time. Cook the rice and shrimp, then store them separately. Keep everything in airtight containers in your fridge. When ready to eat, combine and reheat in a skillet. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. This method ensures your dish stays fresh and delicious. You can use many veggies to add color and crunch. Consider bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Zucchini and mushrooms also work well. Toss in some corn for sweetness or spinach for extra greens. Feel free to mix and match based on your taste. This allows for fun, creative variations. Yes, shrimp fried rice can be gluten-free. Use tamari instead of soy sauce. Check labels on other sauces to ensure they are gluten-free. Most vegetables are naturally gluten-free too. By choosing the right ingredients, you can enjoy this dish without worry. It makes for a tasty option for everyone! You learned how to make shrimp fried rice from scratch. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and helpful tips. You can easily customize this dish with different proteins and veggies. Remember to store leftovers properly for future meals. Enjoying this dish should be fun and easy. With these steps, you can impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!](https://dishtreats.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/9ac088a4-5695-4856-8853-65ac7e0439f3-768x768.webp)


