Alabama's Classic Shrimp and Grits Recipe: A Southern Delight

If there’s one dish that defines Alabama’s coastal charm, it’s Shrimp and Grits. This savory meal combines the delicate, fresh Gulf shrimp that Alabama is known for with creamy, buttery grits—a staple of Southern cooking. Whether you're dining in a beachside restaurant or at a family gathering, this dish has become synonymous with the state's unique culinary identity, blending comfort and sophistication.

Photo byNick Davies

Shrimp and Grits is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The freshness of the shrimp, often caught just hours before being served, combined with the rich flavors of bacon, garlic, and a hint of spice, makes this dish a crowd-pleaser for seafood lovers and Southern food enthusiasts alike. Grits, a porridge-like dish made from ground corn, act as the perfect vessel to soak up the rich, savory sauce from the shrimp, creating a harmonious bite each time.

But what makes Alabama’s take on this dish so special is its ties to local ingredients, such as the Gulf shrimp, and the state’s unique variations of traditional Southern flavors. Each family or restaurant may have their own twist, adding a personal touch, whether it be extra heat from Cajun spices or the addition of sharp cheddar cheese in the grits.

Recipe: Alabama Shrimp and Grits

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh Gulf shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 slices bacon, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Grits: In a saucepan, bring the chicken broth and milk to a simmer. Slowly whisk in the grits, stirring to avoid clumps. Reduce the heat to low and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened. Stir in the cheddar cheese, butter, and season with salt and pepper. Keep warm.
2. Prepare the Shrimp: In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan. Add the onions and garlic to the skillet, sautéing until soft and fragrant. Season the shrimp with paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook until the shrimp turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Combine: Once the shrimp are done, stir the bacon back into the skillet. Serve the shrimp mixture over a generous portion of grits and garnish with fresh parsley.

This version of Shrimp and Grits truly embodies Alabama’s coastal and Southern heritage. The creaminess of the cheesy grits, paired with the smoky, savory shrimp, creates an unforgettable meal that’s perfect for a hearty breakfast, brunch, or dinner.

Conclusion:

Alabama’s Shrimp and Grits showcases the best of what the state has to offer, from fresh Gulf shrimp to the comforting, hearty flavors of Southern cooking. If you’ve never had this dish before, now is the time to try it—it’s a soul-satisfying experience that transports you to Alabama’s coastal shores with every bite.

Did you try this recipe? Let me know how it turned out in the comments, and don’t forget to follow for more Southern-inspired dishes!

Sources:

17 Must-Try Alabama Food: Dishes Alabama Is Known For (nomadsunveiled.com)

Must-Try Alabama Food | 25 Best Alabama Dishes (foodieflashpacker.com)