Introduction
Ruth’s Chris Shrimp & Grits is a dish that perfectly captures the elegance of Southern comfort food elevated to fine-dining status. Inspired by the famous version served at Ruth’s Chris Steak House, this recipe delivers rich, creamy grits topped with buttery, well-seasoned shrimp and a savory sauce that ties everything together. The first time I recreated this dish at home, I was surprised by how achievable it was while still feeling indulgent and refined. The contrast between the smooth, cheesy grits and the bold shrimp creates a balanced plate that feels both comforting and impressive. This is the kind of meal that works just as well for a special brunch as it does for a cozy dinner. With the right technique and quality ingredients, you can enjoy restaurant-style shrimp and grits without leaving your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with straightforward steps. It is rich, comforting, and satisfying while still feeling elegant. Perfect for special occasions or elevated home cooking, it brings bold Southern flavors to the table with ease.
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Ruth’s Chris Shrimp & Grits – A Luxurious Southern Classic Made at Home
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Ruth’s Chris Shrimp & Grits is a rich, Southern-inspired dish featuring creamy cheese grits topped with sautéed shrimp, savory turkey bacon, and a buttery garlic sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 slices turkey bacon, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Bring water to a boil in a saucepan. Gradually whisk in grits.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, for 20–25 minutes until thick.
- Stir in heavy cream, butter, and cheddar cheese until smooth. Keep warm.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook turkey bacon until crisp. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
- Add shrimp, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink.
- Return turkey bacon to skillet and add lemon juice.
- Spoon grits into bowls and top with shrimp mixture.
- Garnish with green onions and serve immediately.
Notes
- Stone-ground grits provide the best texture.
- Do not overcook shrimp to avoid toughness.
- Adjust spice level to taste.
- Serve hot for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ingredients Breakdown
Stone-Ground Grits
Stone-ground grits create a creamy, authentic base with a slightly coarse texture that holds up beautifully to rich toppings.
Water or Chicken Broth
Using broth instead of water enhances the savory depth of the grits.
Heavy Cream
Heavy cream adds luxurious richness and smoothness to the grits.
Butter
Butter is essential for both the grits and shrimp, contributing richness and signature flavor.
Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar adds sharpness and depth, balancing the creaminess of the grits.
Shrimp
Large shrimp provide a meaty texture and absorb seasoning well. They should be peeled and deveined.
Garlic
Garlic adds aromatic depth to the shrimp and sauce.
Paprika
Paprika contributes warmth and subtle smokiness.
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne adds gentle heat without overpowering the dish.
Salt
Salt enhances all flavors and brings balance.
Black Pepper
Black pepper adds mild spice and contrast.
Green Onions
Green onions provide freshness and a mild bite to finish the dish.
Directions
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Begin by bringing water or chicken broth to a boil in a saucepan. Slowly whisk in the grits, reduce heat, and simmer gently, stirring often, until thick and tender. This typically takes 20–25 minutes.
Stir in heavy cream, butter, and cheddar cheese. Season with salt and black pepper, then keep warm over low heat.
Season the shrimp with paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté garlic briefly until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
Spoon the creamy grits onto serving plates and top with the shrimp and buttery pan sauce. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is 30 minutes. Total time is approximately 45 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to restore the grits’ texture. Avoid high heat to prevent separation.
Variations and Customizations
This dish is flexible and easy to adapt. I have added sautéed mushrooms for extra depth, which paired beautifully with the shrimp. Smoked sausage can also be included for a heartier version.
For a spicier profile, increase the cayenne or add a dash of hot sauce to the shrimp. Parmesan or Gruyère can replace cheddar for a different cheese flavor.
If stone-ground grits are unavailable, quick grits can be used, though the texture will be smoother and less rustic. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This dish is high in protein and rich in fats due to butter, cream, and cheese. It is naturally gluten-free and filling, making it best enjoyed as an indulgent main course.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Creamy Grits
Stir frequently and cook slowly to avoid lumps.
Perfect Shrimp
Do not overcook; shrimp should be just opaque.
Balanced Heat
Adjust cayenne gradually to control spice.
Serve Immediately
Shrimp and grits are best enjoyed fresh and hot.
FAQs
Are stone-ground grits necessary?
They provide the best texture but quick grits can be substituted.
Can I make the grits ahead of time?
Yes, reheat gently with added liquid.
What size shrimp works best?
Large or jumbo shrimp are ideal.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has mild heat, adjustable to preference.
Can I add bacon?
Yes, bacon adds smoky depth.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic, but Parmesan also works.
Can I freeze shrimp and grits?
Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
What can I serve with this dish?
A simple green salad pairs well.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw completely before cooking.
Is this recipe suitable for brunch?
Yes, it is excellent for brunch or dinner.
Conclusion
Ruth’s Chris Shrimp & Grits is a refined take on a Southern classic that delivers rich flavor, creamy texture, and satisfying comfort. By recreating this iconic dish at home, you can enjoy restaurant-style indulgence with familiar ingredients and simple techniques. This recipe is perfect for anyone who appreciates elevated comfort food done right.
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