Description
A spicy and flavorful Southern classic, Cajun Shrimp and Grits features tender shrimp cooked in a bold Cajun seasoning served over creamy, buttery grits. Perfect for brunch or a hearty dinner.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp butter (for grits)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning and set aside.
- In a pot, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Stir in grits, reduce heat, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in butter, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper into the grits. Keep warm.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Sauté onions and bell peppers until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Spoon the creamy grits into bowls, top with shrimp mixture, and garnish with green onions if desired.
Notes
- Use quick-cooking grits if short on time, but stone-ground provides better texture.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning for desired spice level.
- For extra richness, use half-and-half instead of water in grits.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 190mg