Slow Cooker Shrimp and Grits Recipe

Introduction

Savor the comforting flavors of Slow Cooker Shrimp and Grits, a classic Southern dish made easy with minimal effort. Creamy, cheesy grits topped with perfectly seasoned shrimp create a satisfying meal perfect 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 for creamier grits)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 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 all ingredients except the shrimp—grits, milk, water, salt, pepper, butter, and cheese if preferred—to the slow cooker. Stir to combine well.
2. Step 2: Cook on HIGH for 2 to 4 hours or on LOW for 4 to 6 hours. Stir occasionally and check the consistency; add more liquid if needed for creaminess.
3. Step 3: Season the shrimp with Old Bay seasoning. Add them in a single layer on top of the grits. Cover and cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
4. Alternative Instant Pot Instructions: Spray the Instant Pot with cooking spray. Add grits, milk, water, salt, pepper, and butter. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Quick release the pressure when done.
5. Step 5: Open the lid and stir in the cheddar cheese. Season the shrimp with Old Bay, place them over the grits in a single layer, cover, and let sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the shrimp are cooked through.

Tips & Variations

• For extra richness, substitute part of the milk with heavy cream or half-and-half.
• Add cooked bacon or andouille sausage for a smoky twist.
• Use freshly grated sharp cheddar for better melting and flavor.
• If you prefer spicier shrimp, increase the Old Bay or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess as needed. Shrimp may become slightly firmer upon reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them well before seasoning and adding to the grits to avoid excess water diluting the flavors.

What type of grits works best for this dish?

Stone-ground grits are preferred for their texture and flavor, but quick-cooking grits can be used if short on time. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

Slow Cooker Shrimp and Grits Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 90 reviews

• Author: Simon
• Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (slow cooker) or 30 minutes (Instant Pot including prep and finishing)
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Salt

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Description

A creamy, comforting Southern classic made easy with shrimp cooked perfectly over cheesy stone-ground grits, prepared using a slow cooker or Instant Pot for effortless cooking and rich flavors.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Shrimp

• 3/4 pound shrimp, peeled & deveined
• 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning (or more)

Grits Base

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 2 cups milk of your choice
• 2 cups water (or more milk)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or more)
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter (or ghee)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

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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 to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
2. Cook Grits: Cook on HIGH for 2 to 4 hours or LOW for 4 to 6 hours. Stir occasionally to check the consistency, ensuring the grits are creamy and tender.
3. Season Shrimp: While the grits are cooking, season the peeled and deveined shrimp with Old Bay seasoning to taste.
4. Add Shrimp to Grits: Spread the seasoned shrimp evenly over the cooked grits in the slow cooker in a single layer. Cover and cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the shrimp are cooked through and pink.
5. Finish with Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese gently to melt and combine into the creamy grits and shrimp mixture before serving.

Notes

• Stone-ground grits provide the best texture; quick-cooking grits may not produce the same creamy consistency.
• Adjust the seasoning and Old Bay to your spice preference.
• If using the Instant Pot method, do not add shrimp during pressure cooking to avoid overcooking; instead, add them after and let steam in residual heat.
• Use butter or ghee to enrich flavor; for a dairy-free version, substitute with vegan butter.
• For thicker grits, reduce the liquid slightly or cook longer before adding shrimp.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours (slow cooker on low) or 10 minutes pressure cooking plus 10 minutes resting (Instant Pot)
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Southern American

Keywords: shrimp and grits, slow cooker shrimp, Southern comfort food, creamy grits with shrimp, easy slow cooker recipe