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Exploring New Orleans Creole Cuisine: Shrimp and Grits Recipes and Tips

Experience comfort-food brilliance with this New Orleans-inspired Shrimp and Grits. Creamy, cheese-laden stone-ground grits meet a savory mélange of turkey bacon, chicken ham, beef sausage, and perfectly seasoned Gulf shrimp. Bright lemon and fresh parsley lift each bite, while garlic and the Creole “holy trinity” provide authentic depth. Serve for brunch, dinner, or special gatherings to deliver a true taste of Creole heritage.

Ingredients

Scale

For the grits:

  • 1 cup stone-ground grits
  • 4 cups water (or 2 cups water + 2 cups milk for creamier grits)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the shrimp topping:

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 6 slices turkey bacon, chopped
  • 4 ounces chicken ham, diced
  • ½ cup beef sausage (or beef kielbasa), sliced
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup finely chopped green onions (whites and greens separated)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish (optional):

  • Extra chopped parsley
  • Sliced green onions

Instructions

Preheat a medium saucepan over medium heat, bring the water (and milk, if using) to a gentle boil. Gradually whisk in the grits, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer, stirring occasionally, until thickened and tender—about 20 minutes. Stir in butter and shredded cheddar, then season with salt and pepper. Keep warm.

While the grits cook, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped turkey bacon and cook until it starts to crisp, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the diced chicken ham and beef sausage; continue to cook until the sausage is lightly browned, about 3 minutes more. Remove the meats from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and the white parts of the green onions; sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Return the cooked meats to the pan, then add the shrimp and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook, stirring frequently, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque—about 4–5 minutes.

Stir in the lemon juice, chopped parsley, and the green parts of the onions. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

To serve, spoon a generous portion of cheesy grits into each bowl and top with the Cajun shrimp and meat mixture. Garnish with extra parsley and green onions if desired.

Notes

  • Ingredient Quality: Opt for gulf shrimp when in season for peak sweetness.

  • Seasoning Adjustment: Taste before plating; adjust Cajun seasoning and lemon to suit your palate.

  • Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare grits and topping up to 2 days in advance; gently reheat separately.

  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in separate containers for up to 3 days; reheat on stove with a splash of water or milk for grits.

  • Garnish Ideas: Top with sliced green onions, chopped parsley, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for color contrast and extra flavor.