30 Best Side Dishes to Serve with Shrimp and Grits for Ultimate Flavor

Shrimp and grits combine creamy textures with savory seafood in a beloved dish. Pairing it with the right sides can elevate the meal, adding balance and variety.

Complementary flavors enhance the richness of the grits while letting the shrimp shine. The options range from fresh and light to hearty and satisfying, perfect for any dining occasion.

Each pairing brings out the unique qualities of this Southern classic. Explore 30 ideas on what to serve with shrimp and grits below and complete your meal:

Squash Casserole

Squash casserole features tender, subtly sweet squash enveloped in a rich and creamy cheese sauce, crowned with a crunchy layer of buttery crackers.

This dish serves as an enticing complement to heartier meals, enhancing flavors while providing comfort.

The combination of textures, from the soft squash to the crispy topping, offers a delightful experience for those who appreciate cozy side dishes.

Originating from Southern kitchens, it's become a staple that you might find at family gatherings or festive occasions.

Bacon Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread

Bacon cheddar jalapeno cornbread transforms a classic side dish into an unforgettable treat.

Infused with savory bacon, rich cheddar cheese, and a hint of spice from fresh jalapenos, this version brings excitement to any meal.

Ideal alongside dishes like shrimp and grits or chili, it adds warmth and character to your dining experience.

The combination of flavors ensures each slice is packed with taste that you won’t forget easily.

Fried Green Tomatoes

Fried green tomatoes are a Southern staple that embody the essence of summer cuisine.

With their crispy exterior and soft, juicy interior, these savory slices offer an enticing contrast in texture that makes them perfect as an appetizer or side dish.

The secret lies in the seasoning that enhances their natural flavor while delivering a satisfying crunch with each bite.

Caesar Salad

Caesar salad is a timeless classic that combines crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and rich Parmesan cheese with a creamy dressing.

Known worldwide for its bold flavors and satisfying texture, this dish elevates any meal without fuss.

Tossing together fresh ingredients creates a refreshing experience that's both quick to prepare and delightful on the palate.

With each forkful, you get layers of taste that keep it popular at tables around the globe.

Green Beans Almondine

Green beans almondine stands out as a refined side dish that highlights crisp French green beans sautéed in rich brown butter, complemented by crunchy almonds and fragrant shallots.

With the addition of garlic and a hint of lemon, this recipe transforms ordinary vegetables into an extraordinary accompaniment for any meal.

The nutty aroma paired with zesty notes creates a delightful contrast that enhances your dining experience.

Sweet Tea

Sweet tea is a quintessential Southern beverage that embodies warmth and hospitality.

This refreshing drink combines brewed black tea with sugar, creating a delightful balance of sweetness and robust flavor that's perfect for any occasion.

With its simple preparation method, you can easily adjust the sweetness level to suit your preference while adding lemon slices or fresh mint leaves as flavorful enhancements.

A chilled glass of this iconic drink serves as a comforting reminder of homegrown traditions and leisurely summer days spent outdoors.

Oysters Rockefeller

Oysters Rockefeller are a sumptuous delicacy known for their rich, buttery topping that includes garlic, spinach, and an array of herbs.

Originating from New Orleans in 1889, this dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also showcases a vibrant green sauce reminiscent of dollar bills.

The combination of flavors creates a luxurious experience perfect for special occasions or intimate gatherings.

Pair these baked oysters with your favorite white wine to enhance the delightful experience further.

Succotash

Succotash embodies a mix of corn and lima beans, often enhanced by local vegetables and meats like bacon.

This dish stands out for its delightful contrast between sweet corn and savory elements, making it an excellent accompaniment to shrimp and grits cakes.

Rich in flavor yet simple in preparation, succotash invites you into the kitchen for a satisfying cooking experience that brings comfort to any meal table.

Pairing well with grilled dishes or as part of a hearty spread ensures it remains a favorite among diverse palates.

Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Red lobster cheddar bay biscuits are a beloved staple known for their irresistible blend of garlic and cheese, creating a comforting treat that you can whip up in less than 20 minutes.

These morsels offer an authentic taste reminiscent of the restaurant version, perfect for accompanying any meal or enjoying on their own.

The buttery flavor combined with hints of cheddar makes them incredibly satisfying to savor warm from the oven.

Wedge Salad

Wedge salad is a crisp dish that features thick slices of iceberg lettuce topped with an array of savory ingredients.

The standout aspect lies in its combination of creamy dressing, crispy bacon, and tangy blue cheese, creating a delightful contrast to the crunchiness of the greens.

Ideal as a side for grilled meats or hearty mains, this classic recipe offers both simplicity and satisfying flavors that appeal to many palates.

Adding colorful cherry tomatoes or sliced radishes can enhance its visual appeal while introducing additional texture.

Sheet Pan Roasted Broccoli

Sheet pan roasted broccoli is a flavorful way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable, transforming it into a crispy delight.

Infused with seasonings that enhance its natural taste, each piece becomes irresistibly crunchy while maintaining tenderness inside.

Pairing well with various main dishes like shrimp and grits or serving as a stand-alone snack makes it incredibly versatile in any meal setting.

Southern Style Green Beans

Southern style green beans are a classic dish celebrated for their rich, comforting flavors.

Tender string beans simmer slowly with savory onion, garlic, and crispy bacon to create an unforgettable taste experience that draws you in.

The slow-cooking process allows each ingredient to contribute its essence, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth goodness that perfectly complements any meal.

With this recipe on hand, serving up a hearty side has never been easier; it’s bound to become your go-to for family dinners or gatherings where comfort food is cherished.

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries offer a delicious twist on traditional French fries, showcasing their natural sweetness and vibrant color.

This recipe allows you to create crispy, golden-brown bites that perfectly complement any meal or stand alone as a snack.

Using simple ingredients, you can achieve restaurant-quality results right in your kitchen.

These flavorful alternatives not only satisfy cravings but also provide added nutrients found in sweet potatoes.

Fried Apples

Fried apples are a comforting dessert that harmoniously balances sweetness and spice. Their tender, caramelized exterior combined with the natural tartness of fresh apples creates an inviting flavor profile.

This recipe offers versatility; you can enjoy them warm as a side dish or serve over ice cream for a satisfying treat after dinner. The delightful aroma while they cook fills your kitchen with warmth, making it hard to resist indulging in this nostalgic favorite.

Frying enhances their natural goodness, turning simple ingredients into something special that adds joy to any occasion.

Gumbo

Gumbo embodies the rich culinary heritage of New Orleans, offering a hearty stew that warms both body and spirit.

Characterized by its deep, flavorful roux and a medley of fresh vegetables such as okra, this dish allows you to select your favorite proteins for added depth.

Creamed Spinach

Creamed spinach serves as a rich and savory addition to any meal, boasting a luxuriously creamy texture that elevates the humble green.

With just a handful of straightforward ingredients, you’ll find it simple to prepare this dish in your kitchen without relying on store-bought alternatives.

The combination of fresh spinach with cream and cheese creates an indulgent side that pairs beautifully with meats or pasta.

This recipe brings warmth and satisfaction, making it ideal for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home where comfort food reigns supreme.

She-Crab Soup

She-crab soup is a beloved dish hailing from the Carolina Lowcountry, renowned for its rich and creamy texture combined with the subtle sweetness of crab meat.

This comforting bowl can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it an accessible choice for both casual dinners and special occasions.

A hint of sherry often enhances its flavor profile, adding depth that rivals high-end restaurant offerings.

The incorporation of fresh lump crabmeat not only elevates this recipe but also pays homage to coastal traditions.

Pickled Okra

Pickled okra offers a tangy and crunchy addition to your culinary repertoire, serving as both a tasty snack and versatile ingredient.

Utilizing the refrigerator method simplifies preparation without the hassle of traditional canning techniques, making this dish accessible for everyone.

This quick recipe ensures that you have these zesty bites ready whenever cravings strike or when you need an extra kick in your meals.

Having pickled okra on hand means delightful snacking is just moments away; it truly enhances any meal experience.

Southern Collard Greens

Southern collard greens serve as a comforting staple in Southern cuisine, known for their rich flavor and nutritional benefits.

This dish highlights tender leaves simmered until they absorb the savory essence of seasonings like garlic, onion, and smoked meat.

Often enjoyed alongside cornbread or beans, collard greens embody a tradition that warms both body and soul.

Hush Puppies

Hush puppies are crispy cornmeal fritters that bring a delightful crunch to your dining experience. These little bites make an excellent snack or side dish, pairing beautifully with everything from fried fish to barbecue.

Opting for homemade versions allows you to control the ingredients and achieve a flavor that's truly unique. With simple components like cornmeal, onions, and seasonings, preparing hush puppies can be surprisingly easy yet rewarding.

Perfectly golden on the outside while soft within, they promise satisfaction at any gathering where comfort food is needed.

Corn Casserole

Corn casserole is a comforting dish that features a creamy, sweet flavor profile and an incredibly easy preparation process.

Made with just five ingredients, this recipe offers simplicity without sacrificing taste, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

In under an hour, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser that serves eight people, though it's likely to vanish quickly once served.

Cucumber Avocado Tomato Salad with Pesto

Cucumber avocado tomato salad with pesto features a mix of crisp cucumbers, creamy avocado, and juicy tomatoes topped with an aromatic basil pesto dressing.

This refreshing dish brings together the best flavors of spring and summer, making it a perfect addition to your table during warm weather gatherings.

The herbaceous notes from the pesto elevate each ingredient's natural taste while adding depth to every bite.

Serving this salad alongside shrimp and grits creates an unforgettable meal that delights both visually and gastronomically.

Candied Yams

Candied yams are a quintessential side dish that brings warmth and sweetness to any meal.

These sweet potatoes become tender while soaking up a luscious buttery syrup, creating an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen with comfort.

Infused with the rich traditions of Southern cooking, this recipe is often found on holiday tables and Sunday dinners alike.

The combination of flavors offers a delightful experience for you and those gathered around the table, transforming simple ingredients into something truly special during festive occasions or family gatherings.

Southern Fried Okra

Southern fried okra is a beloved summer side that delivers an addictive crunch with every bite.

Known for its golden, crispy exterior and tender inside, this dish elevates any meal to new levels of enjoyment.

Fried to perfection using simple ingredients, it can easily convert even the most skeptical eaters into fans of this vegetable delight.

Whether served alongside barbecue or as a standalone snack, its satisfying texture stands out on any plate.

Three Bean Salad

Three bean salad is a colorful dish that brightens any table with its combination of textures and flavors.

Featuring fresh green beans alongside hearty garbanzo and kidney beans, this side dish stands out thanks to its zesty dressing that adds an invigorating twist.

Versatile enough for potlucks or casual family meals, you might find it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or spicy shrimp dishes.

Budget-friendly yet satisfying, it serves as an excellent choice year-round when you're looking for something quick to prepare without sacrificing taste.

Strawberry Spinach Salad

Strawberry spinach salad is a refreshing dish that elevates the classic summer favorite with tender, grilled chicken thighs.

This combination introduces a satisfying heartiness while maintaining the bright flavors of fresh strawberries and crisp spinach.

The addition of creamy poppy seed dressing brings an irresistible richness to every bite, making it ideal for any meal throughout the sunny season.

Perfectly suited for picnics or casual dinners, this salad not only nourishes but also excites your palate with its delightful mix of textures and tastes.

Lobster Bisque

Lobster bisque is a rich and luxurious soup that boasts the deep flavors of succulent lobster.

Crafting this dish in your kitchen doesn’t have to be daunting; it’s surprisingly accessible with just a few key ingredients.

The combination of tender lobster tails, aromatic fresh herbs, and savory seafood stock creates an indulgent experience that's sure to impress anyone at your table.

Clam Chowder

Clam chowder is a rich and hearty soup that embodies the essence of coastal comfort food. This dish features a luscious, creamy broth filled with tender clams and chunks of potatoes, creating an inviting experience for seafood lovers.

Often enjoyed in seaside restaurants, it brings warmth to any meal whether served as a starter or main course. The balance of flavors makes each spoonful comforting while delivering the freshness of the ocean right to your table.

A warm bowl can easily become your go-to recipe on chilly evenings or whenever you crave something satisfying.

Corn Fritters

Corn fritters are delicious bites of fried goodness packed with juicy corn kernels. These crispy morsels provide a satisfying crunch and an irresistible flavor that makes them a perfect companion for various meals or enjoyed on their own as snacks.

With simple ingredients, the preparation allows you to create these delightful treats in no time. Adding spices can introduce exciting variations, making each batch uniquely tasty while complementing other dishes seamlessly.

Whether served alongside shrimp and grits or as part of a larger feast, they bring warmth to your table and satisfy any craving for comfort food.

Biscuits

Buttermilk biscuits are a staple in Southern cuisine, known for their light and airy texture.

With just four simple ingredients, creating these tender delights is incredibly straightforward.

Pair them with shrimp and grits or serve alongside your favorite comfort foods; they complement various meals beautifully.

The versatility of buttermilk biscuits makes them an essential addition to any kitchen repertoire.