Crispy Cajun Shrimp Grits: A Flavorful Delight

Crispy Cajun Shrimp Grits is a dish that has become a staple in my kitchen, bringing a taste of the South right to my dining table. This delightful recipe showcases fried shrimp seasoned with zesty Cajun spices, served over a bed of creamy, cheesy grits. Topped with a flavorful Cajun butter sauce, it’s a perfect meal for any occasion, be it a cozy dinner or a lively brunch. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Cajun Shrimp Grits

This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Rich flavors from Cajun seasoning elevate the dish.
• The crunchiness of the shrimp contrasts beautifully with the creamy grits.
• It’s a quick and easy Cajun Shrimp Grits recipe that takes only 50 minutes.
• Perfect for anyone looking for a gluten-free option.
• A delightful Southern shrimp and grits meal that impresses guests.
• Customization is easy with variations for spice levels and toppings.

Ingredients for Crispy Cajun Shrimp Grits

Gather these items:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (substitute gluten-free flour for gluten-free option)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (for Cajun butter sauce)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (for Cajun butter sauce)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for garnish)

How to Make Crispy Cajun Shrimp Grits Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Cook the Cheesy Grits: Bring 4 cups of water, 1 cup of whole milk, and 1 teaspoon salt to a boil in a medium saucepan. While whisking, gradually add in 1 cup of stone-ground grits. Lower heat and simmer, stirring frequently, for 20 to 25 minutes until grits are thick and tender. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, mixing until completely melted and creamy. Cover to keep warm.
2. Step 2: Season the Shrimp: Pat 1 pound of shrimp dry with paper towels. In a bowl, combine shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Toss until shrimp are evenly coated.
3. Step 3: Dredge the Shrimp: Prepare three bowls: one with 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour), one with 2 beaten eggs, and one with 1/2 cup of cornmeal. Coat each shrimp first in flour, then in beaten eggs, then in cornmeal.
4. Step 4: Fry the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, pour vegetable oil to a depth of about 1/2 inch. Fry shrimp in batches for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
5. Step 5: Prepare the Cajun Butter Sauce: Melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Remove from heat and mix in chopped parsley.
6. Step 6: Assemble and Garnish: Spoon creamy grits into serving bowls. Arrange fried shrimp on top, then spoon Cajun butter sauce over shrimp. Garnish with sliced green onions, chopped parsley, and lemon wedges.

Pro Tips for the Best Crispy Cajun Shrimp Grits

Keep these in mind:

• Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to get that crispy texture.
• For a spicy kick, add more Cajun seasoning to the shrimp or sauce.
• Using stone-ground grits enhances the creaminess and flavor!

Best Ways to Serve Crispy Cajun Shrimp Grits

Here are some serving ideas:

• Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Serve with crispy bread to soak up the delicious Cajun butter sauce.
• Try it for brunch topped with a poached egg for a unique twist.

How to Store and Reheat Crispy Cajun Shrimp Grits

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the grits and shrimp in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess. This meal is perfect for quick meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Cajun Shrimp Grits

What’s the secret to perfect Crispy Cajun Shrimp Grits?

The secret lies in the seasoning and the frying technique! Ensure the shrimp are well-seasoned and fry them in hot oil for that perfect crunch.

Can I make Crispy Cajun Shrimp Grits ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the grits and shrimp separately ahead of time. Just reheat before serving for the best texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Crispy Cajun Shrimp Grits?

Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when frying the shrimp; this ensures even cooking and crispening. Also, monitor the heat to prevent burning.

Variations of Crispy Cajun Shrimp Grits You Can Try

Here are a few variations to spice things up:

• Add a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Substitute shrimp with catfish or other seafood for a different flavor.
• Experiment with different types of cheese in the grits, such as pepper jack for heat.

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection!

For more information on Cajun cuisine, visit Serious Eats.

Learn how to make Persian Chicken or try our Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo for a delightful twist!

For a tasty side, consider our Jalapeno Buffalo Chicken Casserole!

Finally, don’t forget to check out our Ground Turkey and Peppers Stir Fry for a quick meal option!

Print