Cajun Spiced Shrimp Grits (Printable)
A flavorful dish combining Cajun-seasoned shrimp and creamy cheddar-infused grits.
# What You Need:
→ For the Grits
01 - 4 cups water
02 - 1 cup stone-ground grits
03 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
04 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
05 - 1/2 cup whole milk
06 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
→ For the Cajun Shrimp
08 - 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
09 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
10 - 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
11 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
12 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
13 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
14 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
15 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
16 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
→ Optional Garnishes
17 - 2 green onions, thinly sliced
18 - Additional shredded cheddar cheese
# Steps:
01 - Bring water and salt to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in grits. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, for 20-25 minutes until thick and creamy. Stir in butter, milk, cheddar cheese, and black pepper. Mix until cheese is melted and grits are smooth. Remove from heat and keep warm.
02 - Toss shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and onion powder in a medium bowl until evenly coated.
03 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat and drizzle with lemon juice. Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
04 - Spoon creamy cheddar grits into bowls. Top with Cajun shrimp. Garnish with green onions and extra cheddar, if desired. Serve immediately.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The combination of creamy cheesy grits with spicy crisp shrimp hits every craving at once
- It looks impressive but is actually straightforward enough for a weeknight dinner
02 -
- Stone-ground grits absolutely require the full cooking time. Rushing this step results in gritty unpleasant texture.
- Do not crowd the pan when cooking the shrimp or they will steam instead of sear. Work in batches if necessary.
03 -
- Pat the shrimp completely dry before tossing with spices so the coating actually sticks
- Let the grits rest for a few minutes off heat before serving to let them thicken naturally