Rich, Hearty, and Soulful—Where Gumbo Meets Creamy Grits
If you love Southern comfort food, this Gumbo Grits recipe by Kardea Brown-Smith is everything you want in one bowl. It combines a deeply flavored gumbo—loaded with chicken, smoked sausage, shrimp, and collard greens—with creamy, cheesy grits for the ultimate hearty meal.
This dish is rooted in Lowcountry and Southern traditions, bringing together bold spices, slow-cooked flavors, and satisfying textures. Every bite delivers that perfect balance of savory, creamy, and comforting, making it a standout for any meal.
Ingredients
For the Gumbo:
- Smoked sausage, sliced
- Chicken, cut into pieces
- Green pepper, diced
- Onion, diced
- Celery, diced
- Spices, to taste
- Butter
- Water
- Collard greens, chopped
- Shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Grits:
- Grits, cooked
- Shredded cheese, for mixing
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Meats
- Cook the smoked sausage in a pot.
- Add chicken and cook until browned.
2. Build the Roux
- Prepare a roux in the same pot.
- Add green pepper, onion, and celery.
3. Make the Grits
- Prepare grits in a separate pot.
- Add shredded cheese and whisk until smooth.
4. Assemble & Serve
- Spoon grits into a bowl and ladle gumbo over the top.
Pro Tips and Suggestions
- Cook the roux slowly for deep flavor
- Use fresh shrimp for the best taste
- Season in layers for richness
- Keep grits smooth and creamy
- Serve hot for the best texture
About the Creator
This recipe is by Kardea Brown-Smith, the chef behind @kardeabrown. She’s known for celebrating Gullah Geechee and Southern cuisine, bringing soulful, tradition-rich dishes to kitchens everywhere.
Kardea Brown-Smith | @kardeabrown