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Keto Shrimp & Grits with Cheesy Cauliflower Grits

Shrimp and grits has always held a special place in our hearts. It’s one of those soul-warming Southern dishes that feels fancy enough for a dinner party but comforting enough for a lazy Sunday meal. Of course, traditional versions are far from keto-friendly with all the corn-based grits and rich roux—but we weren’t about to give up on the idea of enjoying this classic in a low-carb lifestyle.

That’s where this Keto Shrimp & Grits recipe comes in. We swapped the grits for a creamy, cheesy cauliflower mash that’s so smooth and satisfying, it might just become your new go-to side. The shrimp are sautéed in garlic butter with just the right amount of smoky heat, then spooned over that dreamy cauliflower base. The result is a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and hits every comforting note, without a single kernel of corn in sight.

Cuisine , ,
Courses , , ,
Difficulty Intermediate
Time
Prep Time: 10 mins Cook Time: 15 mins Total Time: 25 mins
Servings 4
Calories 365
Description

Sautéed garlic butter shrimp served over ultra-creamy cauliflower grits packed with cheesy goodness. This keto-friendly version of shrimp and grits is rich, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight comfort or impressing guests.

Ingredients
    For the Cheesy Cauliflower Grits:
  • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/3 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
    • For the Shrimp:
  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp butter or ghee
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
  • 1/2 of Juice lemon
Instructions
    Make the Cauliflower Grits:
  1. Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until fork-tender, about 8–10 minutes.
  2. Drain well and transfer to a food processor.
  3. Add butter, cheddar cheese, and heavy cream. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm while you prepare the shrimp.
    5. Cook the Shrimp:
  5. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat.
  6. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  7. Toss in the shrimp, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
  8. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
  9. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and toss to coat.
    10. Assemble the Dish:
  10. Spoon a generous portion of cheesy cauliflower grits onto each plate or bowl.
  11. Top with sautéed shrimp and drizzle with any leftover garlic butter from the pan.
  12. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4 ServingCalories:365kcalTotal Fat:25gSaturated Fat: 13gTotal Carbohydrate:9gDietary Fiber: 3gSugars: 2gProtein:27g

Note

Substitutions & Variations

  • Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free cheese substitute.
  • Extra Veggies: Add sautéed spinach or kale alongside the shrimp.
  • Mild Version: Skip the cayenne pepper for a more family-friendly version.
  • Smoky Kick: Add a splash of hot sauce or extra paprika for bolder flavor.
Read it online: https://ketoeatsrecipes.com/recipe/keto-shrimp-grits-with-cheesy-cauliflower-grits/