Name: Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 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; recommended Marsh Hen Mill); 2 tablespoons butter; ⅓ cup half and half; ½ – 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; ¼ teaspoon white pepper; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (preferably Gulf Coast shrimp); 1 tablespoon Creole Cajun Seasoning (homemade or store-bought); ¼ teaspoon white pepper; 6 ounces andouille sausage, sliced into rounds; 4 tablespoons butter, divided (or bacon drippings); 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· 4.2 from 13 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly blends comfort, Southern charm, and bold flavors, you have to try this Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe. It’s a soulful bowl of creamy, cheesy grits under a luscious shrimp and andouille sausage gravy that’s seasoned just right with Creole spices. This dish brings warmth to the table and feels like a loving hug in every bite, making it an instant family favorite and a must-make for anyone who loves authentic Lowcountry cuisine.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center, there is an oval white plate with brown speckles holding raw peeled shrimp with tails on, showing a light pink and gray color. Around this plate, there are several small white bowls and measuring cups containing chopped green bell pepper, diced white onion and celery, shredded orange cheddar cheese, and sliced reddish-brown sausage. Other items include diced yellow butter pieces on white paper, minced light beige garlic in a small white dish, white flour in a small black bowl, light brown seasoning powder in a small glass bowl, granulated white ingredient in a black measuring cup, and two clear measuring cups with light orange broth. Fresh green parsley leaves are scattered near the bottom left. The overall look is clean and organized. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The secret to this recipe’s magic lies in its simple but powerful ingredients, each adding layers of flavor and texture that build harmoniously. From the creamy sharp cheddar cheese that melts into the grits to the smoky kick of andouille sausage and the fresh zip of Creole seasoning, every component plays a crucial role.

3 ½ cups water: Provides the base for perfectly tender grits.
1 cup chicken broth or stock: Adds depth and richness to both the grits and the shrimp gravy.
Kosher salt, to taste: To balance and enhance flavors throughout the dish.
1 cup grits (not instant): We love using Marsh Hen Mill for authentic texture and taste.
2 tablespoons butter: Gives the grits a velvety, luscious texture.
⅓ cup half and half: Adds creaminess without overpowering the dish.
½ – 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully into the grits for rich flavor.
¼ teaspoon white pepper: Provides gentle heat and warmth without altering the color noticeably.
1 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined: Preferably Gulf Coast shrimp for freshness and sweetness.
1 tablespoon Creole Cajun Seasoning: Whether homemade or store-bought, it’s key for that signature Lowcountry zip.
4 tablespoons butter, divided (or bacon drippings): For sautéing shrimp and flavoring the veggies.
6 ounces andouille sausage, sliced into rounds: Adds smoky depth and a spicy bite to the dish.
½ green bell pepper, finely diced: Brings color and a subtle sweetness.
½ small yellow onion, finely diced: Adds a savory backbone and aromatic sweetness.
1 stalk celery, finely diced: Lends a slight crunch and fresh undertone.
6 cloves garlic, pressed or minced: Garlic elevates the flavor with its fragrant warmth.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the shrimp gravy to the perfect consistency.
1 ¼ cup chicken broth or stock: To enrich and smooth out the creamy shrimp gravy.
¼ cup heavy whipping cream: Finishes the gravy with luxurious creaminess.
1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley, plus more for garnish: Adds a pop of freshness and color to the final dish.

How to Make Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe

Step 1: Make the Cheese Grits

Start by bringing water, chicken broth, and salt to a boil in a large saucepan. Slowly whisk in the grits a little at a time to avoid clumps, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Patience is key here — let the grits simmer gently for about 30 minutes, stirring often to keep them smooth and creamy. If they start getting too thick, just add a splash of water to keep that perfect texture. When tender, stir in butter, half and half, cheddar cheese, and white pepper. Taste and adjust with more cheese or salt to your liking. Keep them warm and ready for that fantastic shrimp gravy topping.

Step 2: Season and Sauté the Shrimp and Andouille

While the grits cook, toss your peeled shrimp with Creole Cajun seasoning and white pepper. Let them soak up those spices for at least 30 minutes to marry the flavors. In a skillet, melt two tablespoons of butter and cook the shrimp in batches just until they turn pink and opaque. Set them aside once cooked. Next, quickly crisp up the andouille sausage in the same pan, letting that smoky, savory aroma deepen the dish.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Shrimp Gravy

Use the remaining butter to sauté the diced bell pepper, onion, and celery until tender and golden brown. Garlic goes in last and cooks until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the veggies and stir constantly to cook it out—this will thicken the gravy without any lumps. Gradually stir in chicken broth and let it simmer until smooth. Pour in the heavy cream for that signature creaminess, then add the shrimp and andouille back into the skillet. Toss everything well to coat the seafood and sausage in the flavorful gravy. Finish with fresh chopped parsley for brightness and an extra pinch of Creole seasoning if you want more kick.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Divide your warm, cheesy grits into bowls and generously ladle the creamy shrimp gravy over the top. The combination of the silky grits with the spicy, rich shrimp and sausage gravy is an absolute treat that feels like a true taste of the Lowcountry.

How to Serve Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe

This image shows a white bowl filled with a creamy, pale yellow base layer that looks smooth and soft. On top, there is a rich orange sauce with pieces of shrimp and round sausage slices spread evenly. The shrimp are bright orange with a slight gloss, curled and mixed well with the sauce. The sausage pieces are browned and glossy, adding a deeper color contrast. Small bits of green herbs and black pepper are sprinkled over the dish for extra texture and color. A gold spoon is partially dipped into the food on the right side of the bowl, all set on a white marbled surface with a piece of white fabric beneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley scattered over the top adds a fresh, vibrant note and beautiful color contrast. For those who love a splash of heat, a dash of smoked paprika or a few thinly sliced green onions make excellent final touches.

Side Dishes

This dish is wonderfully rich and filling on its own, but serving it alongside a crisp green salad or sautéed seasonal greens like collards or kale balances the richness with a fresh bite. Cornbread or crusty garlic bread are also great for soaking up every last bit of that luscious shrimp gravy.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve your Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe in shallow bowls garnished with bright edible flowers or microgreens. Layering colors and textures on the plate makes this rustic meal feel extra celebratory and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers from your Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe should be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Keep the grits and shrimp gravy separate if possible to maintain the best texture. They will stay delicious for up to 3 days.

Freezing

While you can freeze the shrimp gravy alone, the grits don’t always rebound to their original creamy consistency after freezing and thawing. For best results, freeze the shrimp gravy in an airtight container for up to 2 months, then reheat and pair with freshly made grits.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftover shrimp gravy on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen. Warm the grits separately in the microwave or on the stove, adding a bit of butter or cream as needed to bring back their creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use instant grits for this recipe?

While instant grits cook faster, they don’t develop the same creamy, rich texture that traditional stone-ground or regular grits do in this recipe. For the best results, stick with regular grits for the authentic Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe experience.

What can I substitute for andouille sausage?

If andouille isn’t available, smoked kielbasa or a spicy chorizo make excellent alternatives that provide similar smoky, spicy notes essential to the dish’s flavor profile.

Is this dish spicy?

The dish has a mild to moderate spice level thanks to the Creole Cajun seasoning. You can adjust the amount of seasoning or add more to suit your preference, making it as mild or bold as you like.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a crowd?

Absolutely! Make the grits and shrimp gravy separately in advance, then gently reheat and assemble before serving. This is a fantastic dish for entertaining and can easily be doubled or tripled.

What wine pairs well with Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe?

A crisp, acidic white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay pairs beautifully by cutting through the dish’s richness while complementing the seafood flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe is one of those unforgettable dishes that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and leaves you craving more. Whether you’re introducing Southern classics to friends or indulging in a cozy night at home, it’s sure to become a beloved staple. So grab the ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy every creamy, spicy, decadent bite of this true Lowcountry treasure!

Creamy Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need