Cajun Shrimp & Grits 🍤🌽🔥
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Cajun Shrimp & Grits 🍤🌽🔥
This Cajun Shrimp & Grits is a bold, comforting Southern classic! Creamy, buttery grits topped with smoky, seasoned shrimp and a rich, savory sauce—perfect for a cozy dinner with a little kick.
Serves
4 people
Ingredients
For the grits
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the shrimp
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the sauce
- 3 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons butter
Optional
- Green onions, sliced
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Cook the grits
Bring water or broth to a boil. Stir in grits, reduce heat, and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add butter, cheese (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until creamy.
2. Season the shrimp
Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning, paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Cook the bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving drippings in the pan.
4. Cook the shrimp
Add olive oil if needed. Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
5. Make the sauce
In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up bits from the pan.
Stir in butter until sauce is smooth.
6. Combine
Return shrimp and bacon to the skillet and toss in the sauce.
7. Serve
Spoon creamy grits into bowls and top with shrimp mixture. Garnish with green onions or parsley.
Serving Ideas
- Serve with cornbread or biscuits
- Add a side of collard greens or salad
- Pair with a fresh lemonade or iced tea
Quick Tip
For extra creamy grits, stir in a splash of heavy cream or extra butter at the end.