Description
Looking for the best Cajun Shrimp and Grits recipe? This easy, quick, and simple Southern classic is packed with bold flavor and creamy texture. Juicy shrimp, cheesy grits, and smoky bacon come together in a healthy comfort food idea perfect for weeknight dinners, brunch gatherings, or special occasions. It is beginner friendly, satisfying, and one of the best comfort meal ideas to share with family and friends.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup stone ground grits
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat cook 4 slices chopped bacon until crisp about 6 to 8 minutes then remove and set aside leaving the drippings in the pan.
- Add 1 diced onion and 1 diced green bell pepper to the skillet and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until soft then stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook 30 seconds more.
- Season 1 lb shrimp with 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning salt and pepper then sear in the same skillet for 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque then drizzle with 1 tablespoon lemon juice and remove from heat.
- In a saucepan bring 3 cups chicken broth and 1/2 cup heavy cream to a gentle boil then slowly whisk in 1 cup grits reduce heat and simmer 15 to 20 minutes stirring often until thick and creamy.
- Stir 2 tablespoons butter 1 cup cheddar and 1/4 cup Parmesan into the grits until melted and smooth then spoon into bowls and top with vegetables bacon shrimp and parsley before serving.
Notes
- Adjust Cajun seasoning for more or less heat.
- Stir grits frequently to prevent lumps.
- Add a splash of broth when reheating to keep grits creamy.
- Serve immediately for best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 210mg