Difficulty: Moderate | Yields: 4 servings
A beloved staple from the coastal South, this dish features juicy shrimp sautéed in a smoky, peppery tasso gravy, all spooned over creamy stone-ground grits. It’s deeply comforting, unapologetically rich, and full of Lowcountry soul. Perfect for brunch, dinner, or showing off regional Southern flavors at their finest.
📜 Why This Works
“Because real flavor lives where food meets history.”
Stone-ground grits create a pillowy base for the bold, savory shrimp and spiced gravy. Tasso ham adds Louisiana-style depth, while the tender shrimp bring briny brightness that keeps things balanced and addictively good.
Ingredients for Shrimp & Grits with Tasso Gravy
☑️ 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
☑️ 1 cup stone-ground grits
☑️ 3 cups water + 1 cup milk
☑️ ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar (optional)
☑️ 2 tbsp butter
☑️ ½ cup tasso ham or smoky sausage, diced
☑️ 1 small onion, chopped
☑️ 2 cloves garlic, minced
☑️ 1 tbsp flour
☑️ ½ cup chicken or seafood stock
☑️ Hot sauce, salt, black pepper to taste
☑️ Optional: scallions for garnish
👩🍳 How to Make It Lowcountry Shrimp & Grits with Tasso Gravy
🔥 Step 1: Cook the Grits
1️⃣ Bring water and milk to a simmer. Stir in grits and cook low and slow, 25–30 mins.
2️⃣ Stir in butter, cheese (if using), salt, and pepper. Cover and keep warm.
🍲 Step 2: Make the Tasso Gravy
1️⃣ In a skillet, sauté tasso ham until browned.
2️⃣ Add onion and garlic, cook until soft.
3️⃣ Stir in flour to make a roux, then slowly add stock. Simmer until thickened. Season to taste.
🍤 Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
1️⃣ Add shrimp to the skillet with gravy.
2️⃣ Cook until pink and just firm (2–3 minutes). Add hot sauce if desired.
🍽️ Step 4: Plate & Serve
1️⃣ Spoon grits into bowls.
2️⃣ Top with shrimp, tasso gravy, and scallions.
💖 Why You’ll Love It Lowcountry Shrimp & Grits with Tasso Gravy
☑️ A dish rooted in tradition and layered with flavor
☑️ Creamy, savory, smoky, and bold
☑️ Comfort food that’s perfect for celebrations or cozy nights
☑️ A true taste of Southern coastal cuisine
“Lowcountry on a spoon—warm, soulful, unforgettable.”
🌍 Craving More Extreme Culinary Adventures? If you’re fascinated by rare and ancient food traditions, explore our guide to Truffle Honey Glazed Duck Breast You Need to Try! with Indigenous Roots for the Adventurous Food Lover.
Discover rare culinary experiences at Good Food and More—where every recipe is a journey through heritage, craftsmanship, and unforgettable flavors.
