Slow Cooker Shrimp and Grits Recipe

Introduction

Experience the comforting flavors of the South with this Slow Cooker Shrimp and Grits recipe. Creamy, cheesy grits cooked low and slow make the perfect base for tender, seasoned shrimp. It’s an easy, flavorful dish ideal for any time of day.

Ingredients

• 3/4 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning (or more, to taste)
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 2 cups milk of your choice
• 2 cups water (or more milk)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter (or ghee)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or more, to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Spray the slow cooker generously with cooking spray. Add the grits, milk, water, salt, pepper, and butter. Stir well to combine all ingredients except the shrimp.
2. Step 2: Cook on HIGH for 2 to 4 hours or LOW for 4 to 6 hours, stirring occasionally to check the consistency and ensure the grits are creamy.
3. Step 3: While the grits are cooking, season the shrimp with Old Bay seasoning evenly.
4. Step 4: When the grits are nearly done, add the seasoned shrimp to the slow cooker in a single layer. Cover and cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, until the shrimp are cooked through.
5. Step 5: Once the shrimp are cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

• For extra richness, substitute part of the water with cream or use all milk for creamier grits.
• Add cooked bacon or andouille sausage for a smoky twist to the dish.
• Adjust Old Bay seasoning according to your heat preference; starting with less and adding more if needed works well.
• Use fresh or frozen shrimp — just thaw frozen shrimp before seasoning and cooking.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the grits if needed. Shrimp can become rubbery if overcooked during reheating, so heat just until warmed through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use quick-cooking grits for this recipe?

Stone-ground grits are recommended because they provide the best texture and absorb flavors well. Quick-cooking grits can be used but may become mushy in the slow cooker.

What can I substitute for Old Bay seasoning?

If you don’t have Old Bay, a mix of paprika, celery salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper can mimic its flavor well.

Slow Cooker Shrimp and Grits Recipe

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 125 reviews

A comforting and flavorful Slow Cooker Shrimp and Grits recipe that combines perfectly seasoned shrimp with creamy, cheesy stone-ground grits. This dish is cooked slowly for tender texture with robust flavors, making it an ideal hearty meal for any occasion.

• Author: Rita
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 to 6 hours (slow cooker time) plus 5 to 10 minutes for shrimp cooking
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Southern American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 3/4 pound shrimp, peeled & deveined
• 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning (or more)
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 2 cups milk of your choice
• 2 cups water (or more milk)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons butter (or ghee)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or more)
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare slow cooker: Spray the slow cooker generously with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Add the grits, milk, water, salt, pepper, and butter into the slow cooker. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
2. Cook grits: Cook the mixture on HIGH for 2 to 4 hours or on LOW for 4 to 6 hours. Stir occasionally to check consistency and ensure the grits are cooking evenly.
3. Season shrimp: While the grits are cooking, season the peeled and deveined shrimp with Old Bay seasoning thoroughly for that bold flavor.
4. Add shrimp to grits: Once the grits are creamy and cooked to your desired consistency, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on top of the grits. Cover the slow cooker and continue cooking for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the shrimp are fully cooked and tender.
5. Finish with cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese thoroughly so it melts into the grits, providing a creamy texture and rich flavor. Serve warm.

Notes

• You can substitute water with more milk for extra creaminess.
• Adjust Old Bay seasoning to taste depending on your preference for spice.
• Use ghee instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
• Stir grits occasionally during cooking to prevent lumps.
• Ensure shrimp is fully cooked before serving to avoid any food safety issues.

Keywords: Slow Cooker Shrimp and Grits, Shrimp and Grits, Slow Cooker Recipes, Southern Comfort Food, Cheesy Grits, Seafood Recipes