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Best Cajun Shrimp & Grits Recipe

Cajun Shrimp & Grits is a classic Southern dish that combines creamy, cheesy grits with spicy, flavorful shrimp. This dish is perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner, and it’s sure to impress anyone who tries it. The blend of spices and the richness of the grits make this a truly comforting and satisfying meal.

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing bowl

Ingredients
  

  • For the Grits:
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 cup stone-ground grits
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Cajun Shrimp:
  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 bell pepper diced
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Grits:
  • In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits and reduce the heat to low. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the grits are thick and creamy, about 20-25 minutes.
  • Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm.
  • Prepare the Shrimp:
  • In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until they are pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  • Cook the Vegetables:
  • In the same skillet, add the diced bell pepper and onion. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
  • Make the Sauce:
  • Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce has reduced slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Combine Everything:
  • Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook until the shrimp are heated through, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in the chopped parsley.
  • Serve:
  • Spoon the creamy grits into bowls and top with the Cajun shrimp and vegetables. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired.