Ready in: 50 min · Serves: 4 · Technique: Sautéing · Storage: Up to 3 days in an airtight container.Quick Answer
This Cajun Shrimp and Grits recipe combines creamy grits and spicy shrimp for a warm and comforting dish perfect for holiday gatherings.If you're like me and live in New York City, the arrival of fall brings an abundance of vibrant colors and delightful aromas that seep into the culinary scene. With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, I'm always looking for ways to spice up my holiday gatherings. This Cajun Shrimp and Grits recipe has quickly become a go-to dish in my repertoire, combining warmth and comfort with a hint of spice that can impress guests during cozy gatherings or a simple family meal.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Combines the rich, creamy texture of stone-ground grits with the bold flavors of Cajun shrimp for a satisfying meal.
- Perfect for holiday gatherings and cozy family dinners, impressing guests with a comforting yet elegant dish.
- Easily customizable spice levels to cater to everyone's taste preferences, ensuring a crowd-pleasing experience.
- Simple preparation with a few key ingredients, making it a hassle-free recipe for any home cook.
- Delicious leftovers that can be repurposed for breakfast, adding versatility to your meal planning.
Ingredients
This Cajun Shrimp and Grits recipe requires the following ingredients:
For the Grits
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water (or chicken broth for added flavor)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cajun Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Cajun Shrimp and Grits (Step-by-Step)
This flavorful dish combines creamy grits with spicy Cajun shrimp for a delicious meal.
Step 1: Preparing the Grits
Start by bringing the water (or chicken broth) to a rolling boil in a 4-quart saucepan. As soon as it reaches that bubbling point, add a generous pinch of salt.
Gradually whisk in the stone-ground grits, taking care to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens. This crucial step not only prevents clumping but also helps to ensure that creamy consistency everyone loves.
Lower the heat and let the grits simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. You'll know they're ready when they emit a slightly nutty aroma and are thick yet creamy.
Once thick, stir in the butter, whole milk, and grated cheddar cheese until everything is melty and glistening. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Step 2: Cooking the Cajun Shrimp
While the grits bubble away, heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The moment the butter starts sizzling, it's time to add the shrimp.
In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning until they're well-coated. Then, add them to the skillet in a single layer. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Resist the temptation to overcrowd the pan, as that can lead to steaming instead of searing.
Toss in the diced bell pepper and minced garlic; sauté for another 2 minutes. The vibrant colors and the fragrance of the garlic infused with Cajun spices fill the air with a tantalizing scent.
Finally, add the cherry tomatoes and allow them to soften. This will take about 2 more minutes, creating a harmonious combination with the spicy shrimp.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using instant grits: They can't replicate the creaminess of stone-ground grits! Invest the time for the best texture.
- Overcrowding the skillet: This leads to steaming shrimp instead of achieving that coveted caramelization.
- Not seasoning enough: Remember, both the grits and the shrimp need adequate seasoning to shine. Don't skimp on flavor!
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For extra creaminess: Substitute half of the water with bone broth; it enhances flavor immensely.
- Customize the spice level: Adjust Cajun seasoning according to your heat preference. If you're feeding a crowd, consider offering extra seasoning on the side!
- Leftover idea: Use any leftover shrimp and grits in a breakfast bowl-top with a fried egg for a delicious brunch option.
Variations
- Swap shrimp for chicken or sausage for a different protein option.
- Add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Use different cheeses, such as pepper jack or gouda, for varied flavor profiles.
How to Serve
- Spoon creamy grits onto a platter and top with the Cajun shrimp mixture.
- Drizzle any excess sauce from the skillet over the dish for an added flavor punch.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and chopped parsley for that touch of freshness.
- Serve in a cast-iron skillet for rustic charm and to keep everything warm.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the grits and shrimp separately in advance. They can be stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of milk to the grits to restore their creamy texture. For the Cajun shrimp, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat to maintain its tenderness.
- Freezing: For best results, it is recommended to freeze shrimp and grits separately for later use.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Testing this recipe reminded me how balanced flavors can truly elevate a dish. The creamy grits create a perfect canvas for the robust shrimp, bringing a touch of Southern comfort into our bustling city. Watching guests enjoy this dish is as rewarding as making it, particularly during the festive season!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 plate
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~550 calories · 25g protein · 60g carbs · 20g fat
Recipe by:
Cajun Shrimp and Grits
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring the water (or chicken broth) to a rolling boil in a 4-quart saucepan. Add a pinch of salt.
- Gradually whisk in the stone-ground grits, stirring until thickened. Lower the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- Once thickened, stir in butter, whole milk, and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp seasoned with Cajun seasoning and cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink.
- Add bell pepper and garlic, sauté for 2 minutes. Lastly, add cherry tomatoes and cook until softened.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking.
2. Can I make the grits ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the grits ahead of time and reheat them with a splash of milk to restore their creaminess before serving.
3. What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute, you can try using pepper jack for a spicier kick or cream cheese for extra creaminess.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat with a splash of milk to keep the grits creamy.
5. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or other vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for the grits.
