Lemon Garlic Shrimp & Grits Recipe

If you love a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with fresh flavors, then this Lemon Garlic Shrimp & Grits Recipe is about to become your new favorite. I absolutely love how this recipe combines creamy, cheesy grits with tender shrimp glazed in bright lemon and garlic — it’s like a warm hug on a plate that also feels light and refreshing. Whether you’re cooking a cozy weekend brunch or a quick weeknight dinner, this meal fits the bill every time.

When I first tried this Lemon Garlic Shrimp & Grits Recipe, I was amazed at how quickly it all came together without compromising on taste. You’ll find that using quick grits keeps the process speedy, while the lemon and garlic bring a lively zing that makes the shrimp pop. Trust me, once you make this, your family will go crazy for it just like mine does!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Lemon Garlic Shrimp & Grits Recipe lies in the harmony between simple, high-quality ingredients that complement each other perfectly. Fresh lemon juice and garlic bring brightness to tender shrimp, while creamy grits get that rich, cheesy finish thanks to parmesan and butter.

• Chicken broth: Using broth instead of water makes your grits extra flavorful and comforting.
• Quick grits: These cut down cooking time without losing that creamy texture.
• Butter: Adds richness both in the grits and for sautéing the shrimp.
• Parmesan cheese: Sharp, salty cheese gives the grits a delicious, savory depth.
• Salt and pepper: The basics that bring all the flavors together.
• Olive oil: Used along with butter to sauté shrimp without burning the garlic.
• Garlic: Freshly minced for that punchy, aromatic flavor.
• Shrimp: Peeled and deveined, 1-pound size works best for even cooking.
• Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed for the brightest and most natural zing.
• Parsley: Fresh is best to add color and a subtle herbaceous note, but dried works too.

Variations

I love tweaking this dish depending on the season or what’s in my kitchen. It’s super flexible, so feel free to adjust it to your taste or dietary needs—cooking should be fun, after all!

• Spicy twist: I’ve added a pinch of red pepper flakes to the shrimp once or twice, and my family loved the little kick it gave without overpowering.
• Dairy-free version: Swap out butter and parmesan for dairy-free alternatives or nutritional yeast, and you’ll still get plenty of creamy flavor.
• Herb swaps: Sometimes I substitute parsley with fresh basil or cilantro to change up the herb profile for a fresher or slightly different flavor.
• Grits alternatives: If you’re not a fan of grits, try creamy polenta or mashed cauliflower as the base for the shrimp.

How to Make Lemon Garlic Shrimp & Grits Recipe

Step 1: Cook creamy grits the right way

Start by bringing your chicken broth to a boil over high heat—this gives the grits a rich flavor base right from the start. When boiling, stir in the quick grits, salt, and pepper. Cover with a lid and reduce heat to medium, letting the grits cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed. A quick tip: don’t rush stirring now, or the grits won’t thicken properly. When done, stir in butter and parmesan cheese while still warm for that silky texture. Keep the grits covered to stay hot and creamy.

Step 2: Sauté shrimp with garlic and lemon

While the grits cook, heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat—this combo helps prevent the garlic from burning. Toss in the minced garlic and let it sauté until incredibly fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, add your shrimp seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook just until the shrimp turn pink—overcooking makes them rubbery, so watch closely! Once cooked, remove from heat and immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp for that bright, zesty finish. Sprinkle with parsley, giving a lovely pop of green and herbal freshness.

Step 3: Serve it up and enjoy!

Spoon the cheesy grits onto your plate and pile the warm lemon garlic shrimp right on top. This layering lets the shrimp juices mingle with the creamy base, making every bite delightful. I like to garnish with a little extra parsley or a thin lemon wedge on the side for those who want more zing. Dig in right away—you’ll love how fast and flavorful this meal comes together!

How to Serve Lemon Garlic Shrimp & Grits Recipe

Garnishes

I like to finish this dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and an extra drizzle of olive oil to add a glossy finish. Sometimes a few red pepper flakes on top add a nice little heat that complements the lemon. A lemon wedge on the side is always a good idea for anyone wanting to add a bit more citrus punch at the table.

Side Dishes

Sautéed greens like spinach or kale pair beautifully with Lemon Garlic Shrimp & Grits, adding a touch of earthiness and color. I also love crispy roasted asparagus or a simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette for balance. If you’re feeling indulgent, some crusty garlic bread to mop up leftovers is always a crowd-pleaser.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like serving the grits in little ramekins topped with the shrimp and a sprig of parsley for an elegant touch. Another fun idea is to make it a brunch spread with poached eggs on the side or even topped right on the grits — that runny yolk adds crazy richness! Garnishing with edible flowers can elevate this dish if you’re hosting friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftover shrimp and grits separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The grits can firm up but reheat nicely when stirred with a splash of broth or milk to bring back creaminess. Shrimp should be eaten within 2 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

While grits don’t freeze very well due to texture changes, the cooked shrimp can be frozen for up to a month if packed in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to avoid rubberiness. I recommend making fresh grits when you plan to enjoy leftovers fully.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, warm the grits in a saucepan over low heat with a little chicken broth to loosen them back up, stirring frequently. The shrimp can be reheated in a separate pan over medium heat for just a couple of minutes until warmed through. Combine just before serving to keep everything tasting fresh.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Garlic Shrimp & Grits Recipe holds a special place in my meal rotation because it’s so simple yet feels fancy enough for guests. I love how the flavors come together so effortlessly, delivering comfort and brightness all at once. You’ll enjoy making this dish as much as you’ll enjoy eating it — it’s like sharing a little southern hospitality with every bite. So go ahead, try it out, and I’m sure it’ll become a cherished recipe in your kitchen too!

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