Zesty Cajun Shrimp and Grits Recipe: Southern Comfort in a Bowl

Whipping up a mouthwatering cajun shrimp and grits dish connects me to the vibrant culinary traditions of louisiana.

Southern comfort meets spicy excitement in this classic recipe that dances with bold flavors.

Seafood lovers will adore the perfect blend of succulent shrimp and creamy, rich grits.

My kitchen always comes alive with the aroma of paprika, garlic, and cayenne pepper swirling together.

Regional spices create a symphony of taste that transports you straight to new orleans.

Each bite promises a delightful journey through authentic southern cooking techniques.

Let’s uncover how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary meal that will impress everyone at the table.

Reasons to Love Cajun Shrimp and Grits

• Adjust the Cajun seasoning to match your spice tolerance, making this recipe super flexible for different heat preferences and ensuring everyone can enjoy the meal.
• Packed with bold flavors and ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is a game-changer for busy home cooks who want a restaurant-quality dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor combine in this single-skillet recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a delectable, restaurant-worthy meal that will impress family and friends.

What You’ll Need for Shrimp and Grits

• Shrimp: Fresh, succulent seafood that serves as the star protein of this Cajun-style dish.
• Grits: Creamy, stone-ground corn base that provides a smooth and comforting foundation for the shrimp.
• Chicken Broth: Flavorful liquid that helps cook the grits and adds depth to the overall dish.

• Onion, Bell Pepper: Provide a sweet and slightly crunchy base that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Garlic: Adds a pungent and aromatic element that complements the Cajun seasoning.
• Green Onions, Parsley: Fresh herbs that offer a bright, final garnish with a pop of color and freshness.

• Cajun Seasoning: Signature spice blend that gives the dish its characteristic zesty and bold Cajun flavor.
• Cheddar Cheese: Adds rich, creamy texture and a sharp tangy note to the grits.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• Olive Oil: Provides a medium for sautéing vegetables and cooking the shrimp.
• Butter: Adds richness and smoothness to the grits.
• Diced Tomatoes: Introduces a slight acidity and freshness to the shrimp mixture.

Cooking Cajun Shrimp and Grits

Step 1: Boil Liquid for Creamy Grits

Bring chicken broth to a rolling boil in a medium saucepan.

Gradually whisk in grits to prevent lumps.

Lower heat and simmer, stirring consistently until the mixture transforms into a thick, smooth consistency.

This process takes about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Enrich Grits with Flavor

• Cheddar cheese
• Butter
• Salt
• Black pepper

Stir until ingredients are fully incorporated.

Keep the grits warm and creamy.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatic Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

• Diced onion
• Bell pepper

Cook until vegetables soften and become translucent, approximately 5 minutes.

Introduce minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Spice and Sear Seafood

Generously coat shrimp with Cajun seasoning, ensuring even coverage.

Slide seasoned shrimp into the skillet.

Cook for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until shrimp turn a vibrant pink and are fully cooked through.

Step 5: Incorporate Fresh Tomatoes

Add diced tomatoes to the skillet.

Simmer for 2 minutes, allowing the ingredients to blend and develop a rich, harmonious flavor profile.

Step 6: Plate and Garnish

Ladle creamy grits onto serving plates.

Top with the spicy shrimp mixture.

Sprinkle chopped green onions and fresh parsley for a burst of color and additional flavor.

Grits and Shrimp Cooking Tips

• Whisk constantly while adding grits to prevent lumps and achieve a silky smooth texture.
• Choose large, deveined shrimp for the best flavor and easiest preparation, ensuring they're firm and have a mild ocean scent.
• Adjust Cajun seasoning to match your heat tolerance by using less or a mild blend for sensitive palates.
• Prepare grits and shrimp simultaneously to save time and serve the dish piping hot for maximum enjoyment.
• Replace shrimp with grilled chicken or plant-based protein for a versatile meal that accommodates different dietary preferences.

Store and Heat Cajun Shrimp and Grits

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Separate shrimp and grits to prevent soggy texture. Keeps fresh for 2-3 days in the refrigerator.
• Package shrimp and grits separately in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 1 month. Avoid freezing dishes with fresh herbs as they lose flavor and texture.
• Warm gently in microwave, stirring every 30 seconds. Add splash of chicken broth or milk to restore creamy consistency. Heat until steaming and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Warm in skillet over medium-low heat. Add small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking. Stir gently to prevent overcooking. Heat until just warmed through to maintain tender texture.

Cajun Shrimp and Grits Pairing Ideas

• Pair Zesty Cajun with Bright White Wine: Select a crisp, acidic sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio to cut through the rich, spicy shrimp and balance the creamy grits.
• Complement with Refreshing Beer: Choose a light, hoppy craft beer like wheat ale or blonde ale that provides a cool contrast to the spicy Cajun flavors and cleanses the palate.
• Match with Southern-Style Cocktail: Mix a classic Sazerac or Hurricane cocktail to honor the Louisiana roots, with rye whiskey or rum that echoes the dish's bold, zesty profile.
• Serve with Tangy Side Salad: Create a simple mixed green salad with citrus vinaigrette to add brightness and acidity, helping to offset the dish's richness and spice.

Grits and Shrimp Combo Variations

• Low-Carb Cauliflower Grits: Replace traditional grits with riced cauliflower, sautéed and seasoned similarly for a keto-friendly alternative.
• Vegetarian Protein Option: Swap shrimp with firm tofu or tempeh, using the same Cajun seasoning and cooking method for a plant-based version.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Confirm Cajun seasoning is gluten-free and use cornmeal-based grits from certified gluten-free sources to accommodate celiac dietary needs.
• Dairy-Free Modification: Substitute cheese with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives, and use coconut oil instead of butter for creamy grits without dairy.

FAQs

• What are Cajun grits?

Cajun grits are a creamy, cheesy Southern dish made with ground corn that’s cooked in broth and seasoned with cheese, creating a rich, comforting base for the spicy shrimp.

• How spicy is Cajun seasoning?

Cajun seasoning typically has a medium heat level, combining paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and other spices that provide a warm, zingy flavor without overwhelming the dish.

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them completely, pat dry with paper towels, and ensure they’re well-drained before seasoning and cooking to prevent excess moisture.

• Do I need special equipment to make this dish?

No, you only need a medium saucepan for grits and a large skillet for cooking shrimp, making this recipe accessible for home cooks with basic kitchen tools.

Zesty Cajun Shrimp and Grits Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Creamy Southern comfort meets spicy Cajun flair in this mouthwatering Cajun Shrimp and Grits masterpiece. Hearty, bold flavors dance across your plate, promising a culinary journey through Louisiana’s rich gastronomic landscape that will make taste buds sing with pure delight.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb (454 grams) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups (946 milliliters) chicken broth (or water)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Seasonings and Extras:

• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Craft creamy grits by bringing chicken broth to a rolling boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in grits, reducing heat to low and stirring consistently for approximately 20 minutes until a thick consistency develops.
2. Incorporate cheddar cheese, butter, salt, and pepper into the grits, blending thoroughly. Maintain warmth by keeping the pot covered.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium temperature. Sauté diced onion and bell pepper until they become translucent and tender, roughly 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, releasing aromatic flavors.
5. Generously coat shrimp with Cajun seasoning, ensuring even distribution by gently tossing.
6. Transfer seasoned shrimp into the skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they transform into a vibrant pink color and reach full doneness.
7. Introduce diced tomatoes to the skillet, allowing ingredients to simmer and harmonize for 2 minutes.
8. Plate the dishes by spreading a generous layer of cheesy grits as the foundation.
9. Carefully arrange the spicy Cajun shrimp mixture atop the grits.
10. Enhance the presentation by garnishing with freshly chopped green onions and parsley.

Notes

• Choose low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels in the grits and maintain a healthier dish.
• Swap regular cheese with sharp cheddar for a more intense, tangy flavor profile that elevates the overall taste.
• Use wild-caught shrimp for better sustainability and richer seafood flavor compared to farm-raised options.
• Adjust Cajun seasoning intensity by reducing or increasing the amount based on personal spice tolerance, ensuring a customized heat level.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 150 mg