Cajun Spiced Shrimp Grits (Print version)
Plump shrimp with bold Cajun spices served on creamy cheddar grits for a hearty Southern-inspired meal.
# Ingredient List:
→ 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
# How To Make It:
01 - Bring water and salt to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in grits, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently until thick and creamy. Stir in butter, milk, cheddar cheese, and black pepper until cheese melts 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. 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, drizzle with lemon juice, and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
03 - Spoon creamy cheddar grits into serving bowls. Arrange Cajun shrimp on top. Garnish with sliced green onions and extra shredded cheddar cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The Cajun spice creates this beautiful warmth that balances perfectly with the rich cheesy grits
- It comes together faster than you'd think for something that tastes this special
02 -
- Grits will thicken as they sit. Have a little extra warm milk handy to loosen them up if needed.
- Don't rinse your shrimp after seasoning them. You'll wash away all that flavorful spice mixture.
03 -
- Pat your shrimp completely dry before seasoning them. Wet shrimp equals steamed shrimp.
- Let the grits rest covered for 5 minutes after cooking. They'll absorb any remaining liquid and become even creamier.