Cajun Spiced Shrimp & Grits
Creamy, cheesy cheddar grits topped with spicy, pan-seared Cajun shrimp and bacon crumbles.
Southern comfort food meets spicy Cajun seasoning. Creamy, cheesy cheddar grits serve as the base for plump, juicy shrimp seared in a spicy Cajun rub, finished with crispy bacon and a garlic butter pan sauce.
Key Equipment
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
- Large Non-Stick Skillet
- Mixing Bowls
- Wire Whisk
Chef's Pro-Tips
- Mise en Place: Measure and prep all ingredients before you turn on the stove. This recipe moves quickly, and having everything ready prevents burning.
- Fresh is Best: Whenever possible, use freshly squeezed lemon juice, whole garlic cloves, and fresh herbs instead of dried/jarred versions. The flavor difference is huge!
- Pat Dry: Moisture is the enemy of a good sear. Always pat proteins (like chicken, fish, or tofu) completely dry with paper towels before placing them in the hot pan.
Ingredients
3
servings
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1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
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1 tbsp cajun seasoning
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¾ cup stone-ground grits
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1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
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3 slices bacon, chopped
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2 tbsp butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Grits
In a saucepan, bring 3 cups of water (or milk) to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and butter.
Crisp Bacon and Sear Shrimp
In a skillet, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon. Toss the shrimp in Cajun seasoning. In the hot bacon fat, sear the shrimp for 2 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp.
Make Sauce and Assemble
Add a splash of chicken stock or lemon juice to the hot skillet, scraping up the browned bits to create a pan sauce. Spoon cheesy grits into bowls, top with the Cajun shrimp, drizzle pan sauce over, and garnish with bacon bits and green onions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Allow the food to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
We do not recommend freezing this dish, as dairy-based sauces and creamy textures tend to separate and curdle when thawed.
Use our interactive servings adjuster at the top of the ingredients list! Simply click the '+' or '-' buttons to automatically scale all ingredient quantities up or down to match your guest count.
Absolutely! For gluten-free modifications, swap standard grains or soy sauces with tamari or certified gluten-free options. For plant-based alternatives, choose coconut milk or vegetable broth in place of dairy and chicken products.