Description
This Cajun Shrimp and Grits recipe is a flavorful Southern classic featuring creamy, cheesy grits paired with spicy, succulent shrimp seasoned with Cajun spices and a hint of lime. Ready in just 30 minutes, it offers a comforting, hearty meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Grits
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup uncooked grits
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
Shrimp
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
Garnish
- Chopped parsley or sliced green onions or chives
Instructions
- Prepare the Grits Base: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the whole milk, water, and kosher salt. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add Grits and Seasonings: Stir in the uncooked grits, freshly ground black pepper, and garlic powder. Whisk constantly until the mixture is smooth and lump-free and begins to thicken.
- Cook the Grits: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the saucepan with a lid and cook the grits, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 12 minutes. Make sure to stir enough so the grits don’t stick to the bottom. Continue cooking until the grits are tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Finish the Grits: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in 1/4 cup unsalted butter and 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese until completely melted and combined. Cover the pot and set aside to keep warm while you prepare the shrimp.
- Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add Shrimp: Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Cook for approximately 2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
- Season the Shrimp: Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning evenly over the shrimp. Add 1 teaspoon lime juice and stir to coat the shrimp thoroughly with the spices and lime.
- Serve: Spoon the warm, cheesy grits onto plates or shallow bowls. Top with the seasoned Cajun shrimp. Garnish with chopped parsley, sliced green onions, or chives as desired. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Use medium or stone-ground grits for best texture.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to your spice preference.
- Keep stirring the grits occasionally to prevent clumping and burning.
- For creamier grits, you can substitute part of the water with additional milk or cream.
- If shrimp are frozen, thaw completely before cooking for even cooking.
