Cajun Spiced Shrimp Grits (Print version)
Creamy cheddar grits paired with spicy Cajun shrimp and fresh scallions for a flavorful Southern dish.
# Ingredient List:
→ For the Grits
01 - 4 cups water
02 - 1 cup stone-ground grits
03 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
04 - 4 tbsp unsalted butter
05 - 1/2 cup whole milk
06 - 1/2 tsp kosher salt
07 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
→ For the Cajun Shrimp
08 - 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
09 - 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
10 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
11 - 2 tbsp olive oil
12 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
13 - 1 tbsp lemon juice
14 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
15 - 2 scallions, thinly sliced
→ Optional Garnishes
16 - Extra shredded cheddar
17 - Hot sauce
18 - Chopped parsley
# How To Make It:
01 - Bring water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in grits, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently until thickened to desired consistency.
02 - Stir in butter, milk, salt, pepper, and shredded cheddar until completely melted and smooth. Maintain over very low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent skin formation.
03 - Toss shrimp thoroughly with Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika until evenly coated on all sides.
04 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes. Flip and continue cooking 1-2 minutes until just opaque throughout.
05 - Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat immediately and toss with lemon juice and fresh parsley.
06 - Spoon warm grits into serving bowls. Arrange Cajun shrimp on top and garnish with sliced scallions. Add extra cheddar or hot sauce as desired.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The way spicy shrimp cuts through rich, cheesy grits is pure comfort magic
- It comes together in under 40 minutes but tastes like a restaurant weekend
02 -
- Overcooked shrimp turn rubbery almost instantly, so pull them the moment they turn pink and opaque
- Grits will thicken as they sit, so add a splash more milk or water right before serving if needed
03 -
- Warm your bowls before serving to keep the dish hot longer
- Grate your own cheese instead of buying pre-shredded for better melting