Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Grits 🍤🌶️

A classic Southern comfort dish featuring juicy Cajun-spiced shrimp served over rich, creamy cheese grits. It’s smoky, savory, and packed with bold flavors—perfect for brunch, dinner, or a special weekend meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

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Ingredients

Creamy Cheese Grits

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups chicken broth (or water)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Cajun Shrimp

• 1½ lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• Juice of ½ lemon

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Instructions

1. Make the Creamy Grits

1. Bring chicken broth and milk to a gentle boil.
2. Slowly whisk in grits.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring often, until thick and creamy.
4. Stir in butter, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Keep warm.

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2. Cook the Cajun Shrimp

1. Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, and cayenne.
2. Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet.
3. Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
4. Add remaining butter to the skillet.
5. Sauté onion and bell pepper for 3–4 minutes.
6. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
7. Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes.
8. Stir in heavy cream and return shrimp to the pan.
9. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
10. Finish with lemon juice and parsley.

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3. Serve

Spoon creamy grits into bowls and top with Cajun shrimp and sauce.

Garnish with:

• Extra Parmesan
• Green onions
• Fresh parsley
• Cracked black pepper
• A drizzle of hot sauce

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Delicious Additions

🥓 Bacon Cajun Shrimp & Grits

Add crispy bacon pieces to the shrimp sauce.

🧀 Extra Cheesy Grits

Mix in cream cheese or smoked Gouda for a richer texture.

🌽 Southern Style

Add sautéed corn, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes.

🌶 Spicy Version

Increase cayenne and add sliced jalapeños.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair with:

• Garlic bread
• Collard greens
• Roasted asparagus
• Fresh garden salad
• Cornbread

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Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 680
• Protein: 42 g
• Carbohydrates: 52 g
• Fat: 34 g
• Fiber: 3 g

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Grits delivers the perfect combination of smoky shrimp, silky sauce, and cheesy grits—a true Southern comfort classic. 🍤✨