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Shrimp Grits Cajun

Savory Shrimp Grits Cajun: A Southern Comfort Classic

Indulge in Shrimp Grits Cajun, a perfect blend of creamy grits and succulent shrimp, delivering the essence of Southern comfort in every bite.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Grits
  • 1 cup stone-ground grits or use instant grits for quicker preparation.
  • 4 cups chicken broth or substitute with vegetable broth.
  • ½ cup heavy cream can be replaced with half and half or whole milk.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter olive oil is a dairy-free alternative.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese any semi-sharp cheese can be used.
  • to taste salt
  • to taste black pepper
For the Shrimp and Snapper
  • 1 pound large shrimp fresh is best, but thawed frozen shrimp works.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning adjust according to spice preference.
  • 2 cloves garlic minced.
  • 2 fillets red snapper or substitute with catfish or tilapia.
For the Cajun Cream Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese grated.
  • to taste hot sauce optional, for those who enjoy adding heat.

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • large skillet
  • whisk
  • Spatula

Method
 

Steps
  1. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits. Once combined, reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in ½ cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste and keep warm.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Toss 1 pound of large shrimp with 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning. Once the oil is hot, add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn opaque and pink. Remove from heat.
  3. In the same skillet, dry 2 red snapper fillets with paper towels and season both sides with Cajun seasoning. Sear in the skillet for 3-4 minutes skin side down, until the skin is crispy. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Remove and keep warm.
  4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Sauté 2 minced garlic cloves until aromatic (30 seconds). Stir in 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika, cooking for 1 minute. Gradually add 1 cup of heavy cream and ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, cooking until thickened (about 4-5 minutes).
  5. To serve, spoon the cheesy grits onto plates. Top with a crispy red snapper fillet and sautéed Cajun shrimp. Drizzle with Cajun cream sauce. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Maintain freshness by keeping grits and seafood separate in storage. Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste and reheat gently with added cream or broth for optimal consistency.

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