Spicy Cajun Shrimp Grits (Printable)
Savory Cajun-spiced shrimp paired with rich, creamy cheddar grits for a comforting Southern main dish.
# What You'll Need:
→ Grits
01 - 1 cup stone-ground grits
02 - 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water
03 - 1 cup whole milk
04 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
05 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
06 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
→ Cajun Shrimp
08 - 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
09 - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
10 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
11 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
12 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
13 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
14 - 1 small bell pepper, diced
15 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
16 - 2 green onions, sliced
17 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
18 - Lemon wedges, for serving
# How To Make It:
01 - Bring chicken broth and milk to a gentle boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in grits, reduce heat to low, and simmer, stirring frequently, for 20 to 25 minutes until thick and creamy. Stir in butter, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper; adjust seasoning and keep warm.
02 - Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat; sauté onion and bell pepper for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add shrimp and cook 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
03 - Spoon creamy grits into serving bowls. Top with Cajun shrimp and sautéed vegetables. Garnish with green onions, parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
# Tips from dashanddishes:
01 -
- It has that perfect balance of creamy grits and spicy shrimp that feels like a warm hug with a kick
- The layers of flavor build so naturally, making every bite memorable
02 -
- Slowly adding grits to boiling liquid while whisking prevents clumps and gives you that luxuriously smooth texture every time
- Letting the shrimp marinate briefly in the spices changes the whole flavor profile, making it richer and more vibrant
03 -
- Patting the shrimp dry before seasoning helps them sear instead of steam, locking in that perfect texture
- Resting the cooked shrimp for a minute off the heat lets the spices settle, increasing complexity in each bite