Name: Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 3 ½ cups water, plus more as needed; 1 cup chicken broth or stock; Kosher salt, to taste; 1 cup grits (not instant grits; Marsh Hen Mill recommended); 2 tablespoons butter; ⅓ cup half and half; ½ – 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; ¼ teaspoon white pepper; 1 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined (preferably Gulf Coast shrimp); 1 tablespoon Creole Cajun Seasoning (homemade or store-bought); ¼ teaspoon white pepper; 4 tablespoons butter, divided (or bacon drippings); 6 ounces andouille sausage, sliced into rounds; ½ green bell pepper, finely diced; ½ small yellow onion, finely diced; 1 stalk celery, finely diced; 6 cloves garlic, pressed or finely minced; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 ¼ cup chicken broth or stock; ¼ cup heavy whipping cream; 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley, plus more for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 52 reviews

If you’ve ever found yourself craving a soulful, comforting dish with a burst of Southern charm, then you are absolutely going to adore this Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe. It’s everything you want in a meal: rich, velvety grits mingled with succulent shrimp bathed in a spicy, savory gravy that’s kissed with the flavors of andouille sausage and fresh veggies. Every bite delivers that perfect harmony of creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy notes that make Lowcountry cuisine so unforgettable. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for warming up any dinner table with a taste of Southern hospitality.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows a variety of cooking ingredients laid out on a white marbled surface. At the center is an oval white speckled plate filled with peeled shrimp, their pale pink bodies curled and tails still on. Above this plate is a round white speckled bowl containing three sections of chopped vegetables: white onions, green bell peppers, and celery. To the right, another round white speckled bowl holds shredded cheddar cheese, its bright orange color contrasting with the other ingredients. Around these are several small bowls and measuring cups holding more ingredients: two clear measuring cups with golden broth, a black measuring cup with white granulated rice, a black measuring cup with white flour, a white small bowl with minced garlic, a small black bowl with a powdery white substance, a white small bowl of orange seasoning powder, a small white dish with yellow butter cubes, and a small white bowl with ground spices. There's also a small bowl filled with several slices of red sausage on the lower left side, along with fresh green parsley sprigs clustered nearby. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting to know your ingredients for this Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe is like meeting old friends who all have an important role to play in creating the magic on your plate. From the sharp cheddar that gives the grits their signature richness, to the Creole Cajun seasoning that brings that authentic Southern kick, each ingredient is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture.

3 ½ cups water: The base for cooking grits, helping them reach a creamy consistency without being too thick.

1 cup chicken broth or stock: Adds savory depth and richness to the grits.
Kosher salt, to taste: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors in every component.
1 cup grits (not instant grits): The star grain, providing that comforting, creamy texture—Marsh Hen Mill is a favorite choice.

2 tablespoons butter: Adds silkiness and richness to the grits and gravy.
⅓ cup half and half: Lightens the grits with creamy smoothness without overwhelming them.
½–1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melts into the grits, creating that irresistible cheesy flavor and gooey texture.

¼ teaspoon white pepper: Provides subtle heat without overpowering the dish’s delicate balance.
1 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined: Preferably Gulf Coast shrimp for their sweet, tender bite.
1 tablespoon Creole Cajun Seasoning: Homemade or store-bought, it’s the heart of the shrimp’s bold flavor.

4 tablespoons butter, divided (or bacon drippings): Used to sauté shrimp, veggies, and form the gravy’s base for unbeatable flavor.
6 ounces andouille sausage, sliced into rounds: Adds smoky, spicy notes and a satisfying bite to the shrimp gravy.
½ green bell pepper, finely diced: Offers a fresh crunch and vibrant color to the sauce.

½ small yellow onion, finely diced: Imparts sweetness and savory layers during sautéing.
1 stalk celery, finely diced: Brings aromatic earthiness to the mix.
6 cloves of garlic, pressed or finely minced: Delivers that unmistakable pungent warmth to the gravy.

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the gravy to luscious perfection.
1 ¼ cup chicken broth or stock: Incorporated into the gravy for a silky, flavorful sauce base.
¼ cup heavy whipping cream: Enriches the gravy with velvety smoothness.

1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley, plus more for garnish: Adds a fresh herbal pop to brighten the dish.

How to Make Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Grits

Let’s start with the base that makes this dish shine—creamy, cheesy grits. Bring the water, chicken broth, and a pinch of kosher salt to a boil in a large saucepan. Slowly whisk in the grits little by little to prevent lumps, then lower the heat and cover the pot to let those grits soften and absorb all the flavorful liquids over about 30 minutes. Stir often to keep the texture smooth, and add a splash of water if they get too thick. When tender, stir in butter, half and half, white pepper, and half of your shredded cheddar cheese. If you’re feeling especially indulgent, toss in the rest of the cheddar for extra gooey cheese love. Keep these warm but not stiff as we move to the next step.

Step 2: Season and Marinate the Shrimp

While the grits are cooking, toss your peeled and deveined shrimp with Creole Cajun seasoning and white pepper. Let them marinate, absorbing all those spicy, aromatic notes for at least 30 minutes. This step is key for that bold flavor punch that defines this Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe.

Step 3: Sauté Shrimp and Andouille Sausage

Heat two tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the shrimp in batches just until they turn opaque and rosy pink—around 2-3 minutes total—then set aside. Next, crisp up the sliced andouille sausage until golden and a bit crispy to release smoky, spicy oils that will bring your gravy to life.

Step 4: Sauté Veggies and Build the Gravy

Add the remaining butter to the skillet, then toss in the diced bell pepper, onion, and celery. Sauté until everything turns tender and golden, infusing the pan with sweet and savory aromas. Stir in garlic until fragrant, then sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook to remove the raw taste. Slowly pour in chicken broth and simmer until thickened. Stir in heavy cream until the sauce becomes perfectly smooth and luxurious.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer the Shrimp Gravy

Return the shrimp and andouille sausage to the skillet, coat them well in the creamy gravy, and let the flavors meld for a couple of minutes. Stir in fresh parsley for that vibrant touch. Taste and adjust seasoning with more Creole Cajun spice if you want an extra kick. This shrimp gravy is where the magic really happens in this Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Spoon warm, cheesy grits into bowls and generously top with the shrimp and andouille gravy. Don’t forget to garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pretty pop of color and freshness. Sit back and enjoy the perfect union of creamy, spicy, and smoky flavors.

How to Serve Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe

The first image shows a metal pan filled with creamy, pale yellow grits that have a smooth, slightly thick texture. A red spatula is partially dipped into the grits, resting on the edge of the pan. The second image shows a white oval plate on a white marbled surface, piled with cooked shrimp coated in a reddish seasoning and slices of browned sausage with a rich, reddish-brown color. A few green parsley leaves are placed at the bottom left edge of the plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple garnish of fresh parsley not only adds a bright green pop but also complements the rich, creamy textures with a subtle herbaceous note. For a little extra flair, a dash of smoked paprika or chopped green onions can elevate the presentation and deepen the flavor experience.

Side Dishes

This hearty dish stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with traditional Southern sides. Think buttery collard greens, tangy pickled okra, or a crisp garden salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette to balance out the richness. Cornbread or crusty French bread is also perfect for sopping up every last bit of that glorious shrimp gravy.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve the shrimp and grits in shallow bowls or rustic cast iron skillets for a cozy, authentic feel. You can also offer individual portions in ramekins, layering shrimp gravy over grits and finishing with freshly chopped herbs. A drizzle of hot sauce or a lemon wedge on the side invites guests to personalize their flavor journey.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover shrimp and grits in airtight containers and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. The creamy grits may thicken in the fridge, so keep that in mind when reheating.

Freezing

While you can freeze portions of the shrimp and gravy separately, it’s not usually recommended for the grits as they may change texture upon thawing. If you do freeze the shrimp mixture, use freezer-safe containers and consume within 1 month for best quality.

Reheating

For best results, gently reheat leftover grits on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or half and half to loosen the texture. Warm the shrimp gravy in a separate pan over medium heat. Combine just before serving to preserve the freshness and creaminess that make this Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe so irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use instant grits for this recipe?

Instant grits don’t have the same creamy texture and depth of flavor as traditional stone-ground grits, so I recommend using regular grits for the best result in this Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe.

What if I can't find andouille sausage?

If andouille isn’t available, a smoked kielbasa or any spicy smoked sausage works nicely as a substitute to keep that smoky, spicy character in the shrimp gravy.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute butter with olive oil or dairy-free margarine, use coconut milk or almond milk in place of cream and half and half, and choose a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep the creaminess without dairy.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level depends on the Creole Cajun seasoning you use. It tends to have a gentle kick that balances beautifully with the creamy grits. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your preference for mild or spicy.

Is this recipe suitable for entertaining guests?

Definitely yes! This Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe is a crowd-pleaser with its comforting richness and bold flavors. Plus, it looks gorgeous served family-style, making any gathering feel extra special.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dish that wraps you in Southern comfort and has everyone asking for seconds, you simply must try this Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe. It’s the kind of meal that fills the belly and warms the heart, perfect for any night you want to make a little magic in the kitchen. So grab those ingredients, gather loved ones, and savor the creamy, spicy, and downright delicious flavors of the Lowcountry!

Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need