Low Carb Keto Shrimp and Grits Recipe
If you’ve ever craved the comfort of a Southern classic while sticking to your keto lifestyle, this Low Carb Keto Shrimp and Grits Recipe is about to become your new favorite! It’s the best of both worlds: plump, juicy shrimp tossed with smoky bacon and a creamy, cheesy cauliflower “grits” base that’s so good you won’t even miss the corn. Each bite is bursting with flavor, color, and texture, making this dish the perfect answer to weeknight cravings or a special weekend treat. Whether you’re a longtime keto devotee or just looking for a lighter take on a beloved staple, this recipe brings all the soul with none of the guilt.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Low Carb Keto Shrimp and Grits Recipe is surprisingly simple, with each ingredient playing a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. Think smoky bacon, fresh shrimp, and creamy cauliflower all working in harmony!
- Large shrimp: Use peeled and deveined shrimp for the best texture and easy eating; they cook quickly and soak up all the flavors.
- Bacon: Chopped bacon adds smokiness and a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy “grits.”
- Butter: Provides richness to both the shrimp and the cauliflower grits, making every bite melt-in-your-mouth good.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses a deep, savory aroma and flavor throughout the dish.
- Smoked paprika: This spice brings a subtle, warm smokiness that complements the shrimp beautifully.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): A pinch of cayenne adds a gentle kick, but you can leave it out if you prefer a milder dish.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the savory notes.
- Lemon juice: Just a splash brightens up the shrimp and cuts through the richness.
- Chopped parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and a burst of freshness for the finishing touch.
- Cauliflower: The secret to low carb “grits,” it’s steamed and blended until ultra-creamy.
- Heavy cream: Makes the cauliflower grits decadently smooth and rich.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the grits a cheesy depth and a golden color.
- Garlic powder: Enhances the flavor of the cauliflower “grits” without overpowering them.
How to Make Low Carb Keto Shrimp and Grits Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower “Grits”
Start by steaming or boiling your cauliflower florets until they’re fork-tender, which takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain them thoroughly—this is key for creamy grits that aren’t watery! Pop the cooked florets into a food processor along with butter, heavy cream, sharp cheddar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend everything together until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, then set the “grits” aside and keep them warm while you move on to the shrimp.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook your chopped bacon until it’s crispy and irresistibly fragrant. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon bits and let them drain on a paper towel. Pour off most of the bacon grease, but keep about a tablespoon in the pan—this liquid gold will infuse the shrimp with incredible flavor.
Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp
Add butter to the reserved bacon fat, then toss in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and a sprinkle of cayenne if you’re feeling bold. Sauté for just 30 seconds to release the aromatics, then add the shrimp. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque, being careful not to overcook. Finish by stirring in the lemon juice and reserved crispy bacon, letting all those flavors mingle.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Spoon the warm, cheesy cauliflower “grits” onto plates, then generously top with the shrimp and bacon mixture. Sprinkle chopped parsley over everything for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve immediately and get ready for rave reviews!
How to Serve Low Carb Keto Shrimp and Grits Recipe
Garnishes
For the ultimate finish, don’t skip a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a little extra cheddar cheese on top. If you want to go all out, a fried egg or a drizzle of hot sauce can take this Low Carb Keto Shrimp and Grits Recipe to new heights.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty on its own, but if you’d like something alongside, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or simple sautéed greens like spinach or collards complement the rich, creamy shrimp and grits beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the shrimp and grits in small ramekins or martini glasses for a fun appetizer at your next gathering. Or, for a cozy family meal, serve everything right from the skillet for a rustic, shareable vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), store the shrimp and cauliflower grits separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 2 days without losing their flavor or texture.
Freezing
While the cauliflower grits freeze beautifully for up to a month, the shrimp are best enjoyed fresh. If you must freeze, store only the grits and prepare fresh shrimp when ready to serve for the best taste and texture.
Reheating
Gently reheat the cauliflower grits in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore creaminess. For the shrimp, a quick warm-up in a skillet is best so they don’t get rubbery—just a minute or two will do the trick.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry first. This helps them sear nicely and prevents excess water from diluting all those amazing flavors in the Low Carb Keto Shrimp and Grits Recipe.
Is there a dairy-free option for the cauliflower “grits”?
Yes! Swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative and try coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk in place of heavy cream. Use a vegan cheese or simply leave the cheese out—the cauliflower will still turn out creamy and delicious.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you don’t eat pork, turkey bacon or even diced smoked sausage work well. Alternatively, you can omit it altogether and add a bit more smoked paprika for that signature depth.
How can I make it spicier?
If you love heat, add extra cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce right into the shrimp skillet. You can even sprinkle sliced jalapeños on top for a bold kick!
Can I prep any parts of this dish ahead of time?
Definitely. The cauliflower grits can be made a day in advance and gently reheated. The shrimp are best cooked just before serving, but you can have them peeled, deveined, and seasoned ahead of time for a quick finish.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to bring a little Southern comfort into your kitchen without the carbs, give this Low Carb Keto Shrimp and Grits Recipe a try. It’s pure comfort food joy, made lighter and healthier, and sure to win over anyone at your table—keto or not!
Print
Low Carb Keto Shrimp and Grits Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Low Carb Keto Shrimp and Grits recipe offers a delicious, healthy twist on the classic Southern dish by replacing traditional grits with creamy cauliflower purée. Packed with flavorful shrimp cooked in bacon and spices, this easy-to-make meal is perfect for keto and low-carb diets, providing a satisfying main course that’s rich, savory, and gluten-free.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Bacon
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 4 slices bacon (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Cauliflower Grits
- 1 head cauliflower (cut into florets)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Cauliflower Grits: Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until they are tender, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the cauliflower well to remove excess moisture, then transfer it to a food processor. Add the butter, heavy cream, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Keep the cauliflower grits warm while you prepare the shrimp.
- Cook Bacon and Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it becomes crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside. Discard most of the bacon grease from the pan, leaving approximately 1 tablespoon for cooking the shrimp. Add butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper to the pan. Sauté the mixture for about 30 seconds to release the flavors, then add the shrimp. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Stir in the lemon juice and cooked bacon for an extra burst of flavor.
- Serve: Spoon the creamy cauliflower grits onto plates and top each serving generously with the shrimp mixture. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- You can prepare the cauliflower grits in advance and gently reheat them before serving to save time.
- For added richness, consider topping the dish with a little more shredded cheddar cheese or a fried egg.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
