Cajun Shrimp and Grits

Name: Cajun Shrimp and Grits
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Chopped green onions for garnish; 1 cup stone-ground grits; 4 cups water; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Cajun Shrimp and Grits because it combines the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with the creamy comfort of cheesy grits. The distinct spiciness of the shrimp perfectly contrasts with the richness of the grits, creating a dish that is not only satisfying but also colorful and inviting. It’s a simple yet delightful meal that brings a bit of Southern charm to our dining table, making it ideal for both family dinners and special occasions. I can't wait to share this flavorful recipe with you!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:06:27.413Z

When I first tried Cajun Shrimp and Grits, I was blown away by how the spices elevate the delicate flavors in the dish. I experimented with different spice blends and finally settled on a mix that really brings out the essence of Cajun cuisine. My secret was letting the shrimp marinate for at least 15 minutes, which intensifies the flavors before cooking.

I've found that using stone-ground grits makes all the difference in texture and taste. The slow simmering process also allows the cheese to melt perfectly, resulting in a creamy consistency that pairs beautifully with the spicy shrimp. This dish truly embodies comfort food at its finest!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bold and zesty flavors that awaken your taste buds
Creamy, cheesy grits that complement the spice of the shrimp
Quick to prepare, yet impressively delicious for any occasion

Understanding Grits

When choosing grits for this dish, opt for stone-ground varieties for the best texture and flavor. Unlike quick-cooking grits, stone-ground grits retain a delightful chewiness and depth, making them the perfect base for your rich and spicy Cajun shrimp. When cooked correctly, they should be thick and creamy, with a smooth surface that holds the shrimp nicely.

Avoid overcooking the grits; they should simmer gently for about 20 minutes with occasional stirring. If they get too thick, stir in a little more water or broth until you achieve the desired consistency. You can also experiment with flavors by adding spices or herbs to the grits while they cook, enhancing their flavor profile.

Perfecting Cajun Shrimp

The shrimp’s natural sweet flavor pairs beautifully with the zesty Cajun seasoning. Make sure to use fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best results. If you're using frozen shrimp, thaw them properly by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight or using a quick thaw method under cold running water. Remember to pat them dry before seasoning to ensure they sear properly.

Sautéing the shrimp over medium heat is crucial to prevent overcooking; they should turn pink and opaque in about 3-4 minutes. If you're unsure, using a meat thermometer can help—you’re aiming for an internal temperature of 120°F. Adding the lemon juice at the end adds brightness that balances the richness of the grits, so don’t skip this step!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

For the Shrimp

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Chopped green onions for garnish

For the Grits

1 cup stone-ground grits
4 cups water
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt to taste

Make sure to measure out all ingredients for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Cajun Shrimp and Grits:

Prepare the Grits

In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits, reducing the heat to low. Cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Stir in the cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and salt to taste. Keep warm.

Cook the Shrimp

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add the shrimp and Cajun seasoning, cooking until shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, allowing it to simmer for an additional 2 minutes.

Serve

Spoon the cheesy grits onto plates and top with the Cajun shrimp. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious Cajun Shrimp and Grits!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers and onions to the shrimp while cooking. Also, using homemade chicken broth enhances the dish's overall richness.

Serving Suggestions

Make this dish stand out by serving it in shallow bowls, allowing the shrimp to sit atop a generous mound of cheesy grits. A sprinkle of chopped green onions not only brings a pop of color but also adds a fresh, slightly sharp note that elevates the dish. Pairing Cajun Shrimp and Grits with a simple side salad or some crusty bread can complete the meal nicely.

For a festive touch, consider topping the dish with a few slices of avocado or a dollop of sour cream. You can also drizzle a bit of hot sauce or a squeeze of additional lemon juice over the shrimp for those who enjoy an extra kick.

Make-ahead and Storage Tips

Cajun Shrimp and Grits can be partially prepared ahead of time. The grits can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen them up if needed. This keeps them creamy and delicious without compromising on texture.

The shrimp are best cooked fresh, but you can prepare the seasoning mix a day prior and store it in an airtight container. This way, when you’re ready to enjoy your meal, all you have to do is sauté the shrimp, saving precious minutes in the kitchen during busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

→ What if I don't have Cajun seasoning?

You can make your own blend using paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and thyme.

→ Can I make the grits ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the grits in advance, just reheat and stir in some additional cream or water to loosen them up.

→ Is there a vegetarian option?

Absolutely! Substitute the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables and use vegetable broth instead.