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–+ servings
Cajun Shrimp and Grits

Cajun Shrimp and Grits: A Soul-Warming Southern Delight

Cajun Shrimp and Grits is a heartwarming Southern dish that combines spiced shrimp and creamy grits.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp
  • 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning adjust to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or high-heat cooking oil
  • 3 cloves garlic fresh minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
For the Grits
  • 1 cup stone-ground grits avoid instant varieties
  • 4 cups water or use chicken/vegetable broth
  • 1 cup whole milk or plant-based milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or pepper jack
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter or use olive oil for dairy-free
  • to taste salt fleur de sel recommended
  • to taste black pepper
Optional Toppings
  • 1 each over-easy egg for added richness
  • to taste hot sauce

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • large skillet
  • whisk
  • Spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine water and whole milk; bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
  2. Slowly whisk in stone-ground grits, stirring continuously. Cook for about 20 minutes, stirring frequently.
  3. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and unsalted butter until melted. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  4. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
  5. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet. Sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds.
  6. Add seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
  7. Add chopped green onions during the last minute of cooking.
  8. To serve, spoon cheesy grits into bowls and top with sautéed shrimp. Garnish with green onions.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 52gProtein: 31gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 550mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Opt for quality shrimp and avoid overcooking. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and freeze separately for long-term storage.

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