Shrimp and Grits with Cajun Cream

Southern cuisine is a cultural tapestry woven from the diverse histories and traditions of the regions it encompasses. Among its most iconic dishes, Shrimp & Grits stands out as a comfort food that captures the essence of Southern hospitality. This dish combines the ocean's bounty with the rich agricultural heritage of the South, resulting in an irresistible blend of flavors and textures. The creamy, buttery grits serve as a perfect canvas for the succulent shrimp, creating a dish that is both hearty and indulgent.

Discover the heart of Southern cuisine with this delicious recipe for Shrimp & Grits with Cajun Cream. Dive into the rich flavors where juicy shrimp meet creamy, buttery stone-ground grits, enhanced by a savory Cajun cream sauce. This iconic dish captures the essence of Southern hospitality and tradition, offering a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Follow our step-by-step guide to create a meal that’s perfect for any occasion, celebrating the beauty of comfort food. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and experience the joy of Southern cooking in your own kitchen.

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Ingredients

For the Grits:

1 cup stone-ground grits

4 cups chicken broth (or water)

1 cup whole milk

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Shrimp:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)

1 small onion, diced

2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

For the Cajun Cream Sauce:

1 cup heavy cream

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Salt to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Grits:

- In a large saucepan, bring the chicken broth (or water) to a boil. Gradually whisk in the stone-ground grits, ensuring there are no lumps.

- Reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grits are thick and creamy.

- Stir in the whole milk, shredded cheese, butter, salt, and pepper. Mix well until creamy and smooth. Keep warm.

Cook the Shrimp:

- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until softened.

- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

- Add the peeled shrimp to the skillet. Sprinkle with Cajun seasoning and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove from heat.

Make the Cajun Cream Sauce:

- In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, and lemon juice over medium heat. Stir continuously until heated through and slightly thickened (about 3-4 minutes). Add salt to taste.

Assemble the Dish:

- To serve, spoon a generous portion of cheesy grits onto each plate. Top with the sautéed shrimp and drizzle with the Cajun cream sauce.

- Garnish with sliced green onions and fresh parsley for extra flavor and presentation.

Enjoy!

- Dig into this comforting dish that combines creamy, cheesy grits with the vibrant flavors of Cajun shrimp.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4