Cajun Shrimp and Grits
If you’re looking for a meal that’s rich, creamy, and packed with bold flavors, Cajun Shrimp and Grits is the perfect choice! This dish brings together buttery, cheesy grits with spicy, juicy shrimp for a meal that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s a Southern classic, loved by many for its perfect balance of heat and creaminess.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and Cutting Board
- Citrus juicer (optional)
Ingredients
For the Grits:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water or chicken broth for extra flavor
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Cajun Shrimp:
- 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for extra spice
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 2 green onions chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Grits
- In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water (or chicken broth) to a boil.
- Slowly add the grits while whisking to prevent lumps.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the grits cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the grits are thick and creamy, stir in butter, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper.
- Remove from heat and cover to keep warm while preparing the shrimp.
Step 2: Cook the Cajun Shrimp
- Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to help them cook evenly.
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil and butter.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes on one side.
- Flip the shrimp, add minced garlic, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and stir to coat.
Step 3: Assemble and Serve
- Spoon a generous amount of creamy grits onto a plate or bowl.
- Top with the spicy Cajun shrimp.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Nutritional Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~450-500 kcal
- Protein: ~30g
- Carbohydrates: ~40g
- Fat: ~20g
- Saturated Fat: ~10g
- Cholesterol: ~200mg
- Sodium: ~800-1000mg (depends on seasoning and broth used)
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sugar: ~1g
The nutritional information on this website is only an estimate and is provided for convenience and as a courtesy only. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed. It should not be used as a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.