Easy Cajun Shrimp And Grits Recipe

I have to tell you, if you’ve never tried Cajun Shrimp and Grits, you’re missing out on a dish of pure southern comfort. This recipe is my favorite because of how simple and flavorful it is. I’m talking about grits that are buttery and creamy with spicy garlic shrimp sitting on top, all covered in a rich and smoky sauce. It’s the kind of dish that makes you wanna take a break and enjoy the food with a cold drink in your hand. Best of all? You don’t have to be an expert chef to make it.

No matter if you’re in the mood for some brunch on the weekends, or a cozy dinner on a weekday, cajun shrimp and grits is perfect for any ocassion.

Now that’s something we can all appreciate. Let’s delve in!

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Why Cajun Shrimp and Grits Is So Damn Good

Listen, there’s a reason why Cajun shrimp and grits has been a staple in the South for generations. Here’s why this dish is an absolute must-try:

• Bold, smoky, spicy flavors. The combination of Cajun seasoning, garlic, and butter creates a sauce that’s next-level good.
• Creamy, cheesy grits. Grits are basically the ultimate comfort food—rich, buttery, and smooth as silk.
• Quick and easy. You can whip this up in about 30 minutes, which means less time cooking and more time enjoying.
• A one-pan wonder. Fewer dishes? Yes, please.

Alright, enough talking—let’s get cooking!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make Cajun shrimp and grits:

For the Grits:

• 1 cup stone-ground grits (not the instant kind, trust me)
• 4 cups chicken broth (for extra flavor)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cajun Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (or more if you like it spicy)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp hot sauce (optional but recommended)
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions (for garnish)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

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Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Grits

1. Put the chicken broth in a medium saucepan and bring it to a boil.
2. Slowly add the grits while whisking until fully incorporated. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes while stirring occasionally.
3. Add the cheddar cheese, butter, and heavy cream. Season the blend with salt and pepper. Stir, cover, and let it rest.

Step 2: Cook the Cajun Shrimp

1. Toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon juice, and hot sauce. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Return the shrimp to the pan and toss to coat them in the sauce.

Step 3: Serve It Up!

• Spoon the warm, cheesy grits onto plates.
• Top with the Cajun shrimp and that glorious sauce.
• Sprinkle with green onions and parsley.
• Dig in!

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What to serve with cajun shrimp and grits?

Cajun shrimp and grits is already a full meal on its own, but if you want to make it even better, the right side dishes can take it to another level. Whether you’re looking for something cheesy, buttery, or a little fresh to balance out the spice, here are some killer options:

Best Sides for Cajun Shrimp and Grits:

1. Cheesy Potato Casserole

If you enjoy creamy and cheesy dishes, this is the side dish for you. It is rich, comforting, and goes hand in hand with the smoky heat of the shrimp. And, let’s be completely honest, cheese and potatoes are a winning combination.

2. Tini’s Mac and Cheese

Want to double down on the comfort food? A gooey, cheesy mac and cheese with a crispy top is the perfect partner for Cajun shrimp and grits. This combo is serious Southern soul food at its finest.

3. Sourdough Dinner Rolls

Nothing soaks up that buttery, spicy Cajun sauce like a warm, fluffy sourdough roll. If you want to scoop up every last drop of goodness, you’ll want these on the table.

4. Seafood Gumbo

If you’re going full Louisiana-style, a small bowl of seafood gumbo alongside your shrimp and grits makes for the ultimate Southern feast. It’s packed with rich flavors and ties in beautifully with the Cajun spices.

5. Spinach Omelette

For a lighter, more balanced meal, a simple spinach omelette adds a touch of freshness and greens without overpowering the bold flavors of the shrimp and grits. Great for a brunch-style spread!

6. Loaded Baked Potato Soup

This one is for the true comfort food lovers. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with bacon—this soup is basically a warm hug in a bowl. It’s a little heavy, but if you’re in the mood to indulge, this is the way to go.

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Pro Tips for the Best Cajun Shrimp and Grits

• Use fresh shrimp. It makes a huge difference in flavor. If you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely before cooking.
• Don’t rush the grits. Low and slow is the way to go for the creamiest texture.
• Adjust the spice level. If you like it mild, use less Cajun seasoning. If you like it spicy, throw in extra hot sauce or cayenne.
• Make it extra rich. Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for an even silkier finish.

What is the difference between Cajun and Creole shrimp and grits?

Great question! While Cajun shrimp and grits and Creole shrimp and grits may look similar, the difference comes down to seasoning, cooking style, and ingredients.

Cajun Shrimp and Grits

• Spices: Cajun cooking is all about bold, smoky, and spicy flavors. The shrimp is typically seasoned with Cajun seasoning (a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, black pepper, and sometimes herbs).
• Cooking Style: Cajun cuisine is more rustic and simple, often cooked in cast iron with minimal ingredients. The focus is on deep, smoky, and spicy flavors.
• Sauce: The sauce is usually butter-based with garlic, lemon juice, and a bit of broth or cream. It’s rich but not tomato-heavy.
• Influence: Cajun food comes from rural Louisiana, where French Acadians settled and used local ingredients in one-pot meals.

Creole Shrimp and Grits

• Spices: Creole food also uses bold seasonings but leans more toward an herby, slightly milder flavor with oregano, thyme, and sometimes even a touch of sweetness.
• Cooking Style: Creole dishes often have a more refined, European-influenced cooking style. You’ll see a mix of French, Spanish, and African influences.
• Sauce: The big difference? Creole shrimp and grits usually have a tomato-based sauce—sometimes with bell peppers, onions, and celery (the “holy trinity” of Creole cooking).
• Influence: Creole food is more commonly associated with New Orleans and tends to be more city-style, using rich sauces and more complex ingredient combinations.

Which One Should You Make?

If you love spicy, smoky, and buttery flavors, go for Cajun shrimp and grits. If you prefer a smoother, slightly tangy tomato-based sauce, try Creole shrimp and grits. Either way, you can’t go wrong!

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Reader Feedback

Lisa B.“I made this Cajun shrimp and grits recipe last night, and WOW—my whole family went crazy for it! The grits were so creamy, and the shrimp had just the right amount of spice. I took your advice and used sharp cheddar in the grits, and it made all the difference. This is going into our regular dinner rotation for sure.”

Tyler S. “I’ve tried making shrimp and grits before, but they never turned out this good! Cooking the grits in broth was a game-changer. I also added a little extra Cajun seasoning for more heat, and it was perfect. Thanks for such an easy and delicious recipe“

Your comments mean the world to us! Have you tried this bold and comforting Cajun shrimp and grits recipe? Let us know how it turned out in the comments below! Your feedback helps others and keeps the Southern cooking love alive. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook for more delicious recipes straight from the kitchen.

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Cajun shrimp and grits is the dish to consider if you’re looking for something rich and spicy that is comforting to the taste buds. It can be easily prepared, is full of flavor, and is great for any meal. Best of all, it can be complemented by the Alps Chocolate Muffins Recipe to crown the meal.

What are you waiting for? Grab a fork and let’s eat!