Go Back
Grits and Salmon Recipe

Grits and Salmon Recipe

This Grits and Salmon Recipe combines perfectly seasoned pan-seared salmon with rich, creamy cheddar grits for a comforting Southern-inspired meal. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's an easy weeknight dinner or impressive brunch option packed with flavor, protein, and wholesome ingredients.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Salmon:
  • * 4 salmon fillets 6 oz each
  • * 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • * 1 teaspoon paprika
  • * 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • * ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • * ½ teaspoon salt
  • * ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • * 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • For the Grits:
  • * 1 cup stone-ground grits
  • * 4 cups chicken broth
  • * 1 cup whole milk
  • * 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • * 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • * ½ teaspoon salt
  • * ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional Garnishes:
  • * Chopped fresh parsley
  • * Sliced green onions
  • * Crumbled bacon
  • * Extra shredded cheddar cheese
  • * Hot sauce

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • * Large non-stick skillet or cast-iron skillet
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Serving plates

Method
 

  1. In a large saucepan, bring the chicken broth and milk to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Slowly whisk in the grits. Reduce heat to low and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring frequently until tender.
  3. Stir butter, cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper into the cooked grits. Mix until smooth and creamy. Keep warm.
  4. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
  5. In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  6. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over all sides of the salmon fillets.
  7. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  8. Place salmon in the skillet and cook for 4–5 minutes on the first side.
  9. Carefully flip and cook an additional 3–4 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
  10. Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the cooked salmon.
  11. Spoon creamy grits onto serving plates.
  12. Top each serving with a salmon fillet and garnish as desired.
  13. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

* For extra creamy grits, add a splash of warm milk before serving.
* Stone-ground grits provide the best flavor and texture.
* Do not overcook the salmon; it should remain moist and flaky.
* Smoked salmon can be substituted for a smoky variation.
* Canned salmon can be used for a budget-friendly version.
* Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* Reheat grits with a little milk to restore their creamy consistency.
* Add Cajun seasoning for a spicy Southern twist
<Grits and Salmon Recipe
Nutrition Information (per serving, estimated):
Calories: 520 kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 38g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Sodium: 780mg | Potassium: 850mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 450IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 180mg | Iron: 2.5mg