Description
This Cajun Shrimp and Grits recipe offers a creamy and comforting Southern classic with a spicy Cajun twist. Creamy cheddar-infused grits are topped with perfectly sautéed shrimp seasoned with bold Cajun spices and a hint of lime, making for a quick and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Grits
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup uncooked grits
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
Shrimp
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
Garnish
- Chopped parsley or sliced green onions or chives, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Grits Base: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, water, and kosher salt. Bring the mixture to a boil then add the uncooked grits, freshly ground black pepper, and garlic powder. Whisk continuously until the mixture is smooth, lump-free, and begins to thicken.
- Cook the Grits: Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the saucepan. Cook the grits for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Continue cooking until the grits are tender and the liquid is fully absorbed. Remove from heat once done.
- Finish the Grits: Stir in the 1/4 cup unsalted butter and grated cheddar cheese into the hot grits until completely melted and well combined. Cover the pot to keep warm while you prepare the shrimp.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Season the Shrimp: Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning and drizzle the lime juice over the cooked shrimp. Stir well to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Serve: Spoon the creamy cheddar grits onto plates or shallow bowls. Top generously with the Cajun shrimp mixture. Garnish with chopped parsley, sliced green onions, or chives. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use stone-ground grits for the best texture and flavor, but quick or instant grits can be substituted with adjusted cooking times.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning quantity based on your spice preference.
- For creamier grits, you can substitute some of the water with more milk or add cream.
- Feel free to swap cheddar cheese for pepper jack or smoked gouda for varied flavor profiles.
- Ensure shrimp are fresh or properly thawed if frozen for the best texture.
