Shrimp and Grits is one of the South’s most cherished dishes, a culinary hallmark born from the coasts of the Carolinas and Georgia. Traditionally served as either a hearty breakfast or an elegant supper, it’s a dish that embodies comfort, using simple yet carefully prepared ingredients to produce bold, satisfying flavors. The Shrimp and Grits Burger takes this beloved Southern classic and re-imagines it into a format that’s both playful and innovative while still honoring its roots. Packed with creamy, cheesy grits, succulent spiced shrimp, and fresh, vibrant toppings, this burger offers a unique experience that feels both familiar and brand new.
The inspiration behind the Shrimp and Grits Burger comes from the desire to blend the down-home warmth of Southern cooking with the all-American appeal of a burger. While the foundation of grits and shrimp remains true to the original dish, rethinking it as a handheld meal creates a fun and approachable twist for modern palates. This recipe appeals to anyone who cherishes comfort food but also enjoys culinary creativity. It’s perfect for home cooks looking to break away from the usual burger recipes and embark on a flavor journey that highlights regional traditions in an unexpected way.
At the heart of this recipe are the grits, cooked low and slow to achieve their beautifully creamy texture. The use of stone-ground grits—much favored in the South for their nuttier flavor and heartier texture—sets the stage for a rich base. Sharp cheddar cheese and a touch of butter transform the grits into a velvety spread, providing a luscious foil to the bold flavors of the spiced shrimp. Using Old Bay seasoning for the shrimp imparts that unmistakable briny, herbaceous kick, while the brightness of freshly squeezed lemon juice cuts through the richness, offering balance and brightness. Sautéing the shrimp until perfectly tender maintains their juicy sweetness and delicate texture, ensuring they remain the crown jewel of the burger.
To balance the creamy grits and zesty shrimp, the assembly includes fresh toppings like baby arugula and slices of juicy, ripe tomato. These simple additions bring a pop of freshness and color, elevating the presentation and taste of the burger. The toasted burger bun plays a dual role here: providing a sturdy vessel for this delightful medley while adding a subtle, golden crispness that marries everything together.
This Shrimp and Grits Burger is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary celebration of Southern heritage reimagined for today’s dining table. It’s a well-rounded meal that speaks to indulgence, creativity, and the joy of sharing something truly unique with friends and family. Whether served at a casual backyard gathering or as the centerpiece of a fancier occasion, this burger is sure to spark conversations and create memorable dining experiences. It’s a beautiful homage to the elements of Southern cuisine, redefined in a way that feels adventurous yet comfortingly familiar. For those who love the exquisite balance of flavors that shrimp and grits provide, this burger is proof that even the classics can find new life through thoughtful innovation.
Shrimp and Grits Burger
Ingredients
Grits
- 1 cup stone-ground grits preferably white
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup cheddar cheese sharp, grated
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt to taste Kosher Salt
- Pepper to taste freshly ground black pepper
Shrimp
- 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 medium lemon juiced
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
Assembly
- 4 medium burger buns toasted
- 1 cup baby arugula washed
- 1 medium tomato sliced
Instructions
- For the grits: In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits, reduce the heat to low, and cover. Stir occasionally for 20-25 minutes, or until the grits are thick and tender. Stir in the cheese and butter until melted and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- For the shrimp: In a bowl, combine shrimp, lemon juice, and Old Bay seasoning. Preheat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and sauté for about 3-4 minutes or until they turn opaque and curl into a C-shape. Remove from heat.
- Assembly: To retain texture, gently spoon a generous portion of grits over the bottom half of each toasted burger bun. Layer with cooked shrimp, a handful of baby arugula, and tomato slices. Close with the top bun.