Cajun Shrimp and Grits

Name: Cajun Shrimp and Grits
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup stone-ground grits; 4 cups water; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/2 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup diced tomatoes; Juice of 1 lemon; Green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Homestyle Recipe Favorites

I absolutely adore Cajun Shrimp and Grits! The combination of well-seasoned shrimp, creamy grits, and a hint of spice creates an unforgettable experience. Every time I prepare this dish, I'm reminded of the comforting flavors of the South. What I truly love about this recipe is the balance of textures and the depth of flavor that comes from the Cajun spices. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests with a little southern flair.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:41:28.257Z

I remember the first time I savored Cajun Shrimp and Grits at a local diner. The rich, creamy grits paired with the bold flavors of the shrimp left a lasting impression on me. Inspired, I experimented with various spices until I found the perfect blend that balances heat and flavor. One key detail I discovered is that letting the grits cook slowly allows them to become incredibly creamy and infused with the shrimp's savory essence.

Adding a splash of lemon juice right at the end brightens the entire dish, and you'll be amazed at how a little acidity can elevate the flavors. Whether it’s for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Cajun Shrimp and Grits never disappoints. I guarantee you’ll want to keep this recipe close!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful blend of Cajun spices brings a kick to every bite.
Creamy grits provide the perfect backdrop for succulent shrimp.
Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for any weeknight meal.

Mastering the Grits

Stone-ground grits are vital for achieving the perfect texture in this dish. Unlike instant varieties, they offer a rich, creamy consistency and a robust corn flavor that pairs beautifully with the shrimp. Make sure to stir them often to prevent sticking and ensure a uniform consistency. You’ll know they’re ready when they pull away from the sides of the pot and have a velvety finish, usually around 20 minutes.

Incorporating heavy cream and shredded cheddar into the grits not only adds creaminess but also enhances the overall flavor profile. If you want to experiment, consider using pepper jack or a smoked cheese for a different twist. Just remember to add the cheese off the heat to prevent clumping, whisking it in until melted and smooth.

Perfecting the Shrimp

When selecting shrimp for this recipe, look for wild-caught options if available, as they often have a superior flavor compared to farmed varieties. Size-wise, large or extra-large shrimp work best; they cook evenly and don’t become rubbery. Pay close attention while cooking: shrimp are perfectly done when they turn pink and curl slightly, taking just about 3-4 minutes per batch at medium heat.

Using Cajun seasoning provides a robust layer of flavor, but you can adjust the spice level to suit your preference. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with half the amount called for and gradually increase. Additionally, feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or corn to the shrimp mixture for extra texture and sweetness.

Serving and Storage Tips

To serve, dish the creamy grits into bowls and generously spoon the Cajun shrimp mixture on top, garnishing with fresh green onions for a burst of color and crunch. The contrast between creamy and spicy makes every bite an experience. This dish is also perfect for meal prep; store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, reheating gently in a skillet to maintain texture.

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, consider preparing the grit base and shrimp filling separately. Store the grits and shrimp mixture in the fridge, then reheat before serving. Adding a splash of water or additional cream during reheating can help revive the creamy texture of the grits.

Ingredients

For the Grits

1 cup stone-ground grits
4 cups water
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Shrimp

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 bell pepper, diced
1/2 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup diced tomatoes
Juice of 1 lemon
Green onions for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Grits

In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits, reducing to a simmer. Cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until grits are thick. Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Keep warm.

Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened. Stir in the garlic and continue to sauté for an additional minute. Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning and add to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Combine and Serve

Add diced tomatoes and lemon juice to the shrimp mixture, stirring to combine. Serve the cheesy grits in bowls and top with the Cajun shrimp mixture. Garnish with green onions and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For more flavor in your grits, consider adding a bit of grated Parmesan cheese or substituting half of the water with chicken broth. This will enhance the overall taste of the dish!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a lighter version of this dish, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream in the grits. This will still provide creaminess without the extra calories. For the cheese, a nutritional yeast can be sprinkled to offer a cheesy flavor for a dairy-free option.

Feel free to replace shrimp with other proteins like chicken, scallops, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly—the key is to achieve a perfect sear for whatever protein you choose.

Customization Ideas

To switch up the flavors, try adding a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper in the shrimp mixture for added heat. You can also incorporate spices like smoked paprika for a smoky undertone, or a squeeze of lime for a citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness of the grits.

For a unique presentation, consider layering the grits with the shrimp in a glass for individual servings. This not only looks appealing but allows the flavors to mingle beautifully as the guests dig in.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy milk if you prefer a lighter option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the grits are best fresh, you can prepare the shrimp mixture ahead and reheat it just before serving.