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Southern Shrimp and Grits

Creamy cheese grits topped with perfectly seasoned Cajun shrimp, creating the ultimate Southern comfort food classic.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 685
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Creamy Cheese Grits
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup stone-ground grits
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
Cajun Shrimp
  • 1.5 pounds large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 0.5 tsp paprika
  • 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper optional
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh chives chopped

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Large Skillet
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Bring chicken broth to a boil in a large saucepan. Gradually whisk in stone-ground grits in a steady stream.
  2. Reduce heat to low and simmer grits for 25-30 minutes, stirring frequently, until thick and creamy.
  3. Stir in heavy cream and butter, cooking for 5 more minutes. Remove from heat and fold in cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and keep warm.
  4. Pat shrimp dry and season with Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
  6. Add seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook 2-3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
  7. Drizzle shrimp with lemon juice and toss with parsley and chives.
  8. Spoon creamy grits into bowls, top with Cajun shrimp, drizzle with pan juices, and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use stone-ground grits for best texture and flavor. Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking shrimp. Grits can be made up to 1 hour ahead and kept warm. Store leftovers separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days.