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    Home » Recipes » Entrées

    Cajun Shrimp and Grits

    Published: Dec 26, 2019 · Modified: May 6, 2021 by Heather · As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. · 658 words. · About 4 minutes to read this article.

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    Cajun Shrimp & Grits by The Toasty Kitchen
    Cajun Shrimp & Grits by The Toasty Kitchen
    Cajun Shrimp & Grits by The Toasty Kitchen

    Cajun Shrimp and Grits is a classic Southern comfort food that's easy to make from scratch. Creamy, buttery grits are topped with cajun seasoned shrimp - ready in 30 minutes.

    A white bowl filled cajun shrimp and grits.

    With a handful of easy-to-find ingredients (that you may already have on hand), cajun shrimp and grits can be on your dinner table tonight. 

    The grits are creamy, buttery, and flavorful. Shrimp is seasoned with cajun seasoning, then pan-fried and ready in minutes.

    You'll be making this recipe on repeat! It's perfect for a quick and comforting weeknight meal. 

    Ingredients and substitutions

    Ingredients laid out on a counter top.I use homemade Cajun Seasoning for this recipe, but you can also use any store bought cajun seasoning you already have on hand.

    I recommend using medium or large shrimp that have been peeled and deveined. If you're like me, go ahead and remove the tails so that you don't have to bother with them while you're enjoying dinner. 

    You'll need stone ground grits for this recipe, not instant grits.

    Milk can be whole, 2%, 1%, or skim - any milk you have on hand will work. Whole milk will make your grits much creamier and richer.

    Chicken broth can be substituted with vegetable broth.

    Grits tips and tricks

    Making grits in a sauce pan.While making your grits, keep a close eye on them and whisk frequently. 

    If your grits begin to stick to the bottom of the pan or look dry, add a splash of water and turn down the heat slightly. 

    You'll know your grits are ready when they look creamy and thick, and no longer have a gritty texture. 

    Metal spoon serving cajun shrimp.

    Cooking shrimp

    Shrimp cook very quickly, and should only need about 2 minutes per side, depending on the size of your shrimp.

    Once your shrimp turn pink and start to curl up slightly, you'll know they're done. 

    Overcooking shrimp will cause them to be rubbery and tough - don't walk away while your shrimp are cooking!

    What to serve with shrimp and grits

    Shrimp and grits are quite hearty, and can be a served as a meal on their own. But if you'd like to add something a little extra, like veggies or a side of bread, I've got a few ideas for you!

    • Green Beans and Onions
    • Buttermilk Cornbread Muffins
    • Crusty sliced bread
    • Kale Cranberry Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
    • Roasted Zucchini and Squash
    • Collard greens
    • Coleslaw
    A white bowl filled cajun shrimp and grits.
    Print Recipe
    4.85 from 33 reviews

    Cajun Shrimp and Grits

    Cajun Shrimp and Grits is a classic Southern comfort food that's easy to make from scratch. Creamy, buttery grits are topped with cajun seasoned shrimp - ready in 30 minutes.
    Prep Time5 minutes
    Cook Time25 minutes
    Total Time30 minutes
    Servings: 4 servings
    Calories: 470kcal
    Author: Heather

    Ingredients

    Grits

    • 2 cups milk
    • 2 cups chicken broth
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • 1 cup stone ground grits
    • 2 cloves garlic
    • 4 tablespoons butter
    • ½ teaspoon pepper

    Cajun Shrimp

    • 16 ounces large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails removed
    • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
    • 2 teaspoons cajun seasoning

    Instructions

    Grits

    • In a saucepan over medium heat, add milk, chicken broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then slowly whisk in the grits and minced garlic.
    • Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 20 minutes, whisking frequently. If grits begin to stick to pan, reduce heat. Grits should be creamy and tender when cooked through.
    • Remove from heat and add pepper and butter. Stir to combine. Cover and set aside.

    Cajun Shrimp

    • Season shrimp with cajun seasoning and toss to evenly coat.
    • In a skillet over medium heat, add butter. When hot, add shrimp to pan and arrange in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook for 1 additional minute. Shrimp are ready when pink and tails have curled up slightly. Remove from heat.
    • Spoon grits into a bowl, then top with shrimp and any remaining butter in pan. Optionally, top with chopped parsley as a garnish. Serve immediately.

    Equipment Recommendations

    • SS 3-Quart Saucepan
    • OXO Metal Balloon Whisk
    • OXO Non-Stick Frying Pan Skillet - 12 inch
    • Red Spoonula Set

    Notes

    • 2 teaspoons of cajun seasoning will give you a medium amount of heat. For a lighter flavor, use one teaspoon. 
    • If you're plating to impress, feel free to leave the tails on your shrimp. Leaving the tails on can make your plate look more attractive and the shrimp look larger.

    Nutrition Estimate

    Calories: 470kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Cholesterol: 337mg | Sodium: 1756mg | Potassium: 438mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 1332IU | Vitamin C: 13mg | Calcium: 325mg | Iron: 3mg
    Course: Main Course
    Cuisine: American

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    1. Linda

      June 23, 2022 at 8:32 pm

      Made the shrimp and grits tonight! VERY good. Next time I will do all the prep the night before!!

      Reply

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    Heather of The Toasty Kitchen

    Hi, I'm Heather of The Toasty Kitchen. I love cooking with real, unfussy ingredients, and I want to help you make homemade meals with ease.

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