If you’ve ever wished you could enjoy the comforting, soulful flavors of shrimp and grits without the carb overload, then this Low Carb Keto Shrimp and Grits Recipe is your new best friend. It perfectly balances succulent, spicy shrimp with creamy, cheesy cauliflower “grits” that capture the heart of the classic Southern dish while keeping you firmly on your keto journey. This dish is rich, satisfying, and packed with bold flavors that will delight your taste buds on any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Low Carb Keto Shrimp and Grits Recipe plays a crucial role, from bringing assertive seasoning to the shrimp to creating that velvety, comforting texture in the cauliflower “grits.” Together, they make this dish simple to prepare but extraordinary to savor.
- 1 lb large shrimp: Peeled and deveined for ease, these are the star protein delivering a tender, juicy bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for sautéing your shrimp and garlic with a subtle fruity note.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds an aromatic kick that enriches the shrimp.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Gives the dish a smoky, warm undertone, enhancing the shrimp’s flavor beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Provides just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the shrimp and balances the richness.
- 4 cups cauliflower florets: The low-carb hero, steamed and transformed into creamy grits.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds luscious richness to the cauliflower base.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Makes the cauliflower silky smooth and ultra indulgent.
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Introduces a tangy depth that mimics traditional grits.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory profile in the cauliflower grits.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the cheese by adding subtle aromatic notes.
- Chopped parsley and cooked bacon pieces (optional): For freshness and a smoky crunch in the final presentation.
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 completely tender—about 8 to 10 minutes. This softness is crucial for creating a creamy texture. Once cooked, drain them thoroughly to prevent watery grits, then transfer the cauliflower to a food processor. Add butter, heavy cream, cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, blending until the mixture is silky smooth and rich enough to spoon onto your plate. Keep this warm as it’s the perfect cozy base for your shrimp.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
While your cauliflower grits are warming, heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a skillet. Toss in the minced garlic for a quick 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it burn! Add your shrimp and season with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque, ensuring they stay juicy and tender. Finish this step by drizzling lemon juice over the shrimp and gently tossing to coat, giving the dish a fresh, zesty lift.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
Spoon a generous portion of your cauliflower grits onto plates and crown with the beautifully cooked shrimp. If you like, sprinkle on chopped parsley and cooked bacon pieces for a vibrant pop of color and an irresistible smoky crunch. This step brings all the flavors and textures together in a comforting plate that’s just waiting to be devoured.
How to Serve Low Carb Keto Shrimp and Grits Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes are not just decoration—they amplify the tasting experience. Chopped fresh parsley offers a bright, herbal contrast, while crispy bacon pieces add a satisfying crunch and smokiness that pairs wonderfully with both the shrimp and cauliflower grits. A light sprinkle of extra cheddar or a dash of hot sauce can also be fun ways to personalize your dish.
Side Dishes
This Low Carb Keto Shrimp and Grits Recipe shines on its own but pairs beautifully with vibrant greens. Consider a fresh arugula salad with a citrus vinaigrette or simple sautéed spinach with garlic. These sides add color, nutrients, and a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special dinner, serve this dish in individual shallow bowls so each guest can mix the shrimp and cauliflower grits as they please. Alternatively, place the grits in the center of a large platter with shrimp arranged around the edges for a communal, family-style meal. Adding edible flowers or microgreens can elevate the presentation, making your Low Carb Keto Shrimp and Grits Recipe look as inviting as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the shrimp and cauliflower grits separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps maintain texture and flavor. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for easy, ready-to-go meals when you’re short on time.
Freezing
Feel free to freeze the cauliflower grits but avoid freezing the shrimp to preserve the best texture. Freeze the grits in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Reheating
For the smoothest results, reheat the cauliflower grits on low heat with a splash of cream or water to loosen the texture. Warm the shrimp separately in a skillet over low heat just until heated through, keeping them tender and avoiding a rubbery finish. This method ensures your Low Carb Keto Shrimp and Grits Recipe tastes almost as good as freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture that can affect the sear and texture.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the grits?
Yes! Swap out the heavy cream for coconut cream and replace cheddar cheese with nutritional yeast. This keeps the dish creamy and flavorful without dairy.
How spicy is this Low Carb Keto Shrimp and Grits Recipe?
The cayenne pepper adds a gentle kick, but it’s easily adjustable. Reduce or increase the cayenne to match your heat preference.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it uses cauliflower in place of traditional corn grits, making it perfect for those avoiding gluten.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying out the shrimp?
Reheat shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat for a minute or two until warm. Avoid microwave reheating which can make shrimp tough and rubbery.
Final Thoughts
Diving into this Low Carb Keto Shrimp and Grits Recipe feels like a cozy hug on a plate—rich, satisfying, and bursting with southern charm while keeping things keto-friendly. Whether you’re craving a comforting weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to share with friends, it’s a delicious way to enjoy a classic with a low-carb twist. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be coming back for seconds!
Print
Low Carb Keto Shrimp and Grits Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern-Inspired
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
A flavorful low-carb and keto-friendly version of the classic Southern shrimp and grits, replacing traditional grits with creamy cauliflower puree and featuring perfectly seasoned sautéed shrimp.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Cauliflower Grits
- 4 cups cauliflower florets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish (Optional)
- Chopped parsley
- Cooked bacon pieces
Instructions
- Prepare the cauliflower grits: Steam or boil the cauliflower florets for about 8-10 minutes until very tender. Drain well to remove excess water. Transfer the cooked cauliflower to a food processor and add butter, heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Set aside and keep warm.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp to the skillet along with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Finish the shrimp: Once cooked, add lemon juice to the shrimp and toss to coat evenly. Remove from heat.
- Serve: Plate the creamy cauliflower grits, then top with the sautéed shrimp. Garnish with chopped parsley and cooked bacon pieces if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and nutritional yeast for cheese to make the dish dairy-free.
- Adjust the spice level by reducing or increasing the amount of cayenne pepper according to your preference.
