Ruth’s Chris–Style Shrimp & Grits: A Restaurant-Worthy Southern Classic

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ruth’s Chris–Style Shrimp & Grits is a luxurious take on a beloved Southern staple, combining creamy, cheesy grits with tender shrimp and a rich, savory sauce. This dish feels indulgent, elegant, and comforting all at once. I first recreated this recipe at home after enjoying it at a special dinner and wanting to capture that same depth of flavor without leaving my kitchen. The contrast between the velvety grits and the bold shrimp sauce is what makes it unforgettable. Smoky bacon, garlic, and a touch of cream elevate the dish far beyond everyday shrimp and grits. Despite its restaurant-quality result, the method is surprisingly straightforward and approachable. It works beautifully for date nights, weekend dinners, or when you want to impress guests with something classic yet refined. Every bite delivers warmth, richness, and balanced Southern flavor.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ingredients Breakdown

Stone-ground grits are the foundation of the dish. They cook up creamy and rich, providing the perfect base for the shrimp and sauce.

Chicken broth enhances the flavor of the grits, giving them more depth than water alone.

Heavy cream adds silkiness and indulgence to both the grits and the shrimp sauce.

Butter enriches the dish and contributes to the smooth, luxurious texture.

Cheddar cheese melts into the grits, adding sharpness and body without overpowering the shrimp.

Shrimp are the star protein. Large shrimp stay juicy and tender when cooked quickly.

Bacon brings smoky, salty depth and forms the flavor base of the sauce.

Garlic adds aromatic intensity and enhances the savory notes.

Lemon juice balances the richness with brightness and acidity.

Cayenne pepper adds subtle heat that complements the creaminess.

Salt and black pepper refine and balance all components.

Fresh parsley adds a clean, herbaceous finish.

Directions

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Begin by preparing the grits. Bring chicken broth to a gentle boil, then slowly whisk in the grits. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, until thick and creamy. Stir in butter, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese. Season with salt and black pepper, then keep warm over low heat.

While the grits cook, prepare the shrimp. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Remove and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan. Add butter and garlic to the skillet and sauté briefly until fragrant.

Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook until pink and just opaque, turning once. Remove the shrimp and set aside to prevent overcooking.

Lower the heat and stir heavy cream into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Add lemon juice, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Simmer gently until slightly thickened.

Return the shrimp and bacon to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Spoon the creamy grits into bowls and top with shrimp and sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
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.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

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 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, cooking time about 30 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the grits.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is easy to adapt while maintaining its signature richness. For a spicier version, increase the cayenne or add a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce. If you prefer a lighter dish, reduce the cream slightly and increase the broth.

You can substitute shrimp with scallops or a mix of seafood for variety. Smoked gouda or parmesan can replace cheddar for a different cheese profile in the grits.

For extra depth, add a splash of white wine to the sauce before the cream and allow it to reduce slightly. I tested this variation and found it added a subtle acidity that balanced the richness beautifully.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

Ruth’s Chris–Style Shrimp & Grits is a rich, protein-forward dish. Shrimp provide lean protein, while dairy and bacon contribute indulgent fats. Portion control helps keep this dish balanced.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Stir Grits Frequently
Regular stirring prevents clumping and ensures a creamy texture.

Do Not Overcook Shrimp
Remove shrimp as soon as they turn pink to keep them tender.

Low Heat Sauce
Gentle heat keeps the cream sauce smooth and prevents separation.

FAQs

Can I use quick-cooking grits?

Yes, but stone-ground grits provide superior texture and flavor.

Is this dish very spicy?

No, the heat is mild and adjustable.

Can I make this ahead of time?

The components can be prepared separately and assembled just before serving.

What size shrimp works best?

Large or jumbo shrimp are ideal.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be less rich.

Do I need cheese in the grits?

Cheese is traditional in this version but can be reduced or omitted.

Can I freeze shrimp and grits?

Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.

What can I serve with this?

A simple green salad or sautéed vegetables pair well.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, spinach or roasted tomatoes work nicely.

How do I keep grits creamy?

Add extra warm broth or cream while reheating.

Conclusion

Ruth’s Chris–Style Shrimp & Grits is a comforting yet elegant dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen. Creamy, savory, and deeply satisfying, it is a recipe that turns a Southern classic into a truly special meal.

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