Save A Southern classic featuring creamy, cheesy grits topped with spicy Cajun shrimp and a savory pan sauce. Comforting, bold, and perfect for brunch or dinner.
This dish brings back memories of family gatherings filled with laughter and the aroma of Southern cooking.
Ingredients
- For the Grits: 4 cups water, 1 cup stone-ground grits, 1 cup whole milk, 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded, 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- For the Cajun Shrimp: 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined, 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning store-bought or homemade, 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 3 cloves garlic minced, 1/2 cup scallions thinly sliced plus extra for garnish, 1/2 cup bell pepper diced, 1/4 cup chicken or seafood stock, Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Prepare Grits:
- In a medium saucepan bring water and milk to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits and salt. Reduce heat to low cover and simmer for 20 25 minutes stirring occasionally until thick and creamy.
- Finish Grits:
- Stir in butter cheddar cheese and black pepper. Keep warm over low heat stirring occasionally.
- Season Shrimp:
- While grits cook pat shrimp dry and toss with Cajun seasoning until well coated.
- Cook Shrimp:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1 2 minutes per side until just opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- Add butter to the skillet. Sauté garlic scallions and bell pepper for 2 3 minutes until softened.
- Make Sauce:
- Pour in chicken or seafood stock and lemon juice scraping up any browned bits. Simmer 1 2 minutes. Return shrimp to skillet and toss to coat in sauce.
- Serve:
- Spoon grits into bowls. Top with shrimp sauce and extra scallions. Serve immediately.
Save Making this recipe always fills our home with warmth and brings everyone together at the table.
Notes
For extra richness stir a splash of cream into the grits. Try using smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese for a twist. Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a cold lager.
Required Tools
Medium saucepan, whisk, large skillet, wooden spoon
Allergen Information
Contains Dairy cheese butter Shellfish shrimp. Grits are naturally gluten free but check packaging if celiac. Double check spice blends for hidden allergens.
Save This Cajun shrimp and grits recipe is sure to impress whether at brunch or dinner. Don’t forget to garnish with extra scallions for a fresh finish.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of grits works best?
Stone-ground grits are preferred for their texture and ability to absorb flavors, but quick-cooking grits can be used for convenience.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, modify the amount of Cajun seasoning to make the dish milder or spicier according to taste.
- → What can be used instead of seafood stock?
Chicken stock or vegetable broth works well to create depth in the sauce if seafood stock is unavailable.
- → How do I keep the grits creamy?
Stir frequently and finish with butter and cheese; adding a splash of cream can also enhance creaminess.
- → Can this be made ahead of time?
Prepare grits and shrimp separately, then gently reheat and combine just before serving to preserve texture.