(Southern-Style Creamy Shrimp & Cheesy Grits Inspired by Steakhouse Flavor)
Ruth’s Chris Shrimp & Grits is a luxurious Southern-inspired dish featuring tender shrimp sautéed with smoky bacon, garlic, and savory seasonings served over rich, creamy, cheesy grits. This elegant comfort food combines classic Southern flavors with a steakhouse-style presentation.
Perfect for brunch, special dinners, or whenever you want restaurant-quality comfort food at home.
Full Recipe (Ingredients + Instructions)
Ingredients
For the Creamy Cheese Grits:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Shrimp:
- 1½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot or onion, finely diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Creamy Cheese Grits
Bring chicken broth and heavy cream to a gentle simmer.
Slowly whisk in grits.
Reduce heat and cook:
25–35 minutes
stirring occasionally until creamy.
Stir in:
- Butter
- Cheddar cheese
- Parmesan
- Cream cheese
Season with salt and pepper.
Keep warm.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet:
Cook bacon until crispy.
Remove bacon and keep the drippings.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add butter and olive oil to the skillet.
Sauté:
- Shallot/onion
- Bell pepper
until softened.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Season shrimp with:
- Cajun seasoning
- Smoked paprika
- Old Bay
- Cayenne
Add shrimp to skillet.
Cook:
2–3 minutes per side
until pink.
Step 4: Make the Shrimp Sauce
Add:
- Chicken broth
- Lemon juice
- Bacon pieces
Simmer for a few minutes until flavorful.
Finish with parsley and green onions.
Step 5: Serve
Spoon creamy cheese grits into bowls.
Top with shrimp and sauce.
Garnish with:
✨ Green onions
✨ Fresh parsley
✨ Extra bacon
Serve warm.
Extra Recipe Tips & Variations ✨
🧀 Extra Rich Steakhouse Version
Add:
- Smoked Gouda
- Extra Parmesan
- A splash of cream
for a luxurious flavor.
🌶️ Spicy Cajun Shrimp & Grits
Add:
- Andouille sausage
- Extra Cajun seasoning
- Hot sauce
🥓 Bacon Lovers Version
Add extra crispy bacon and bacon grease to the grits.
🍄 Shrimp & Mushroom Grits
Sauté mushrooms with the shrimp for a deeper savory flavor.
🦀 Seafood Luxury Version
Add:
- Crab meat
- Lobster pieces
for a special occasion dish.
Flavor Upgrades / Secret Tips 🔥
✅ Use stone-ground grits for the best texture.
✅ Cook grits slowly for maximum creaminess.
✅ Do not overcook shrimp—they become rubbery quickly.
✅ Freshly grated cheese melts smoother.
✅ A little lemon balances the rich flavors.
Serving Ideas 🍽️
Serve with:
🥖 Garlic bread
🥗 Fresh salad
🥦 Roasted vegetables
🍷 White wine
🍊 Fresh fruit
Perfect for:
- Brunch
- Date night
- Holiday meals
- Special dinners
Storage Tips 🥡
Shrimp:
Store separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Grits:
Store for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
Warm grits slowly with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate)
Per serving:
- Calories: 700–900 kcal
- Protein: 45–55 g
- Carbohydrates: 55–70 g
- Fat: 35–45 g
(Values vary depending on cheese, cream, and portions.)
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: What kind of grits are best for shrimp and grits?
A: Stone-ground or old-fashioned grits provide the best Southern texture.
Q: Can I make shrimp and grits ahead?
A: Yes. Prepare the grits ahead and gently reheat before serving.
Q: What cheese works best?
A: Sharp cheddar, Parmesan, Gouda, and cream cheese create a rich flavor.
Q: How do I make shrimp extra flavorful?
A: Season well and cook them in bacon drippings with garlic and spices.
Social Media Captions ❤️
Facebook Style:
“This Ruth’s Chris-inspired Shrimp & Grits brings steakhouse flavor straight to your kitchen! 🍤🧀 Creamy cheesy grits topped with perfectly seasoned shrimp and crispy bacon—Southern comfort at its finest.”
Instagram Style:
“Creamy, cheesy, buttery, and packed with shrimp… this is the Southern dish dreams are made of. 🍤✨”
Short Viral Caption:
“Restaurant-style shrimp & grits you can make at home! 🔥🍤”
Family Memory Style:
“Some meals feel like a celebration. ❤️ A warm bowl of shrimp and grits brings people together with every creamy, flavorful bite.”
Final Food Description 🍴
Ruth’s Chris Shrimp & Grits is a decadent Southern-inspired dish featuring creamy cheese grits topped with seasoned shrimp, crispy bacon, garlic, and a rich savory sauce. Elegant enough for special occasions but comforting enough for any night at home. 🍤🧀✨