Cajun Shrimp and Grits is a must-try Southern dish!
Cajun Shrimp and Grits is a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the South right to your table, combining creamy grits with bold, spicy Cajun-seasoned shrimp.
- Author: Elisa
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Gluten Free
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (red and green)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Bring 4 cups of water or low-sodium chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan.
- Gradually whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits and reduce heat to low.
- Cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and creamy.
- Stir in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of heavy cream, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add 1 pound of shrimp, 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder.
- If desired, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque.
- Add 1/2 cup of diced bell peppers and sauté for an additional 2 minutes.
- To serve, place a spoonful of grits on each plate and top with the Cajun shrimp mixture, garnishing with green onions and parsley.
Notes
- Use fresh, wild-caught shrimp for the best flavor.
- Stir grits occasionally to prevent clumping.
- Do not overcook shrimp; they should be pink and opaque.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, starting with less and adding more as needed.
- Presentation matters; arrange the dish artfully for a more inviting look.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
Keywords: Cajun, Shrimp, Grits, Southern, Comfort Food