The Ultimate Cheesy Cajun Shrimp and Grits: A Southern Comfort Food Classic
Step into the heart of Southern comfort food with our incredibly flavorful Cheesy Cajun Shrimp and Grits recipe. This beloved dish, rich in history and bursting with taste, brings together succulent, perfectly seasoned Cajun shrimp, crispy, savory bacon bits, and incredibly creamy, cheesy grits. It’s a true classic that delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite, making it perfect for a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a comforting dinner. Forget long hours in the kitchen – this irresistible meal comes together in 30 minutes or less, proving that gourmet flavors can be achieved with ease and speed.
Why This Cheesy Cajun Shrimp and Grits Recipe is a Must-Try
Shrimp and Grits is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary icon of the American South, a symphony of textures and flavors that has captivated palates for generations. While many variations exist, our specific recipe shines by combining key elements that guarantee a truly unforgettable experience. We start with plump, juicy shrimp, giving them a generous coating of vibrant Cajun seasoning. This isn’t just any seasoning; it’s a blend that brings a perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and earthy notes, setting the stage for an explosion of flavor.
The magic truly happens when these seasoned shrimp are cooked in the rendered fat from crispy bacon, infused with fragrant minced garlic. This technique imbues the shrimp with an unparalleled depth of flavor, adding a smoky, umami richness that complements the spice beautifully. The result is perfectly cooked shrimp that are tender, flavorful, and incredibly aromatic. Paired with smooth, velvety, and undeniably cheesy grits, you get a meal that feels both indulgent and wonderfully comforting. This recipe isn’t just fast; it’s a masterclass in flavor layering, offering a hearty and satisfying dish that’s versatile enough for any meal of the day, all ready in about 30 minutes.
Beyond its deliciousness, this recipe is also incredibly approachable. Even if you’re new to Southern cooking, our straightforward steps and simple ingredient list make it easy to whip up a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out and leaves everyone asking for seconds, cementing its place as a true comfort classic.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Shrimp and Grits
Crafting the perfect Cheesy Cajun Shrimp and Grits begins with selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients. While the full list with precise measurements is available in the printable recipe card at the end of this post, here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need to gather to bring this Southern delight to life:
- Large Raw Shrimp: Peeled and deveined for convenience and best texture.
- Bacon: For savory flavor and rendered fat.
- Minced Garlic: An essential aromatic.
- 5-Minute Grits: Our choice for speed and ease, though other grits can be used.
- Chicken Stock: To infuse the grits with deep savory flavor.
- Butter: For richness in the grits.
- Cajun Spice Blend: The signature flavor for the shrimp.
- Garlic Salt & Black Pepper: To season the grits.
- Milk: For extra creamy grits.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: The key to cheesy perfection.
- Sliced Green Onion: An optional, fresh garnish.
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the robust flavor profile of this Southern classic. From the savory bacon to the creamy cheese, every component contributes to the harmonious balance that makes this dish so irresistible.
Ingredient Spotlight: Tips for Best Results & Easy Substitutions
Understanding each ingredient and knowing potential substitutions can elevate your cooking experience and help you adapt this recipe to your preferences or what you have on hand. Here’s a deeper dive into the key components:
Grits: The Creamy Foundation
The heart of this dish lies in its creamy, dreamy grits. We opt for 5-minute grits in this recipe for their incredible convenience, allowing you to achieve that perfect consistency quickly. These quick grits are ideal for busy weeknights or a speedy brunch. However, don’t hesitate to use your preferred type! Old-fashioned grits or even **stone-ground grits** are excellent alternatives, though they will require a longer cooking time (always follow package directions). The key to truly flavorful grits in this recipe is to replace plain water with **chicken broth**. This simple swap infuses the grits with a savory depth from the start, creating a richer base that water simply cannot match. This savory foundation is further enhanced by the addition of garlic salt and black pepper. For extra richness and a silky texture, we also incorporate milk, butter, and a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese at the end. You can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, pepper jack for a spicy kick, or even a blend of your favorites for a unique twist. The goal is a velvety, smooth, and deeply flavorful grit base.
Shrimp: The Star Protein
For the best results, we highly recommend using large raw shrimp that have been peeled and deveined. The larger size ensures a substantial bite and prevents overcooking, which can lead to a rubbery texture. Look for shrimp in the 21/25 count per pound range. If you’re using frozen shrimp, it’s crucial to allow them to thaw completely before seasoning. Patting them thoroughly dry with paper towels will also help the Cajun seasoning adhere better and promotes a nicer sear in the hot skillet. The Cajun seasoning is what gives the shrimp its signature zesty, spicy kick. You can use your favorite store-bought blend, or make your own with paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and thyme. If you’re looking to change things up or prefer a different flavor profile, you can absolutely substitute the Cajun seasoning with a simple blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne, or even try our fantastic blackened shrimp recipe for a darker, more intensely spiced crust. Ensure your shrimp are cooked just until pink and opaque to maintain their tender texture – this usually takes only 2-3 minutes per side.
Bacon & Garlic: Essential Flavor Enhancers
Crispy, savory bacon bits aren’t just a delicious garnish; they’re integral to the flavor development of this dish. The rendered bacon grease provides a rich, smoky foundation for cooking the shrimp and garlic, adding an incredible layer of umami that elevates the entire meal. Don’t discard that precious fat! It’s the secret ingredient that binds all the flavors together. Minced garlic further enhances this savory base, contributing an aromatic warmth that complements both the shrimp and the grits. If you don’t have fresh garlic, a teaspoon of garlic powder can be used in a pinch (mix it into the Cajun seasoning for the shrimp), though fresh is always preferred for its vibrant, pungent flavor.
Cajun Seasoning: The Spice of Life
The choice of Cajun seasoning can significantly impact the final taste. Brands like “Slap Ya Mama” are well-known for their authentic, robust flavor profile. Cajun seasoning typically includes paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and thyme, often with salt and black pepper. Each brand has its unique blend, so feel free to use your favorite. The amount specified in the recipe provides a good level of flavor and mild heat, but you can always adjust it to your preferred spice level. For a milder flavor, start with a slightly smaller amount; for a bolder kick, add a little extra cayenne or a dash of your favorite hot sauce directly to the shrimp or when serving.
Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Perfect Shrimp and Grits
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are designed to guide you through each stage of making this delicious recipe. For a convenient printable version, complete with precise measurements and instructions, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this post.
Preparing the Creamy Cheesy Grits
- First, in a medium saucepan, combine chicken broth, milk, garlic salt, and black pepper. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. It’s important to watch closely during this stage, as milk can cause the mixture to rapidly rise and potentially boil over the sides of the pot. Once boiling, gradually stir in the grits until fully incorporated into the liquid. This ensures no clumps form. Reduce the heat to medium and continue to stir occasionally, cooking for approximately 5 minutes, or until the grits begin to thicken and become tender.
- Just before all the liquid is completely absorbed and the grits are nearly finished cooking, cover the saucepan tightly and remove it from the heat. Allow the grits to rest undisturbed for about 3 minutes; this will enable them to absorb any remaining liquid, steam, and become wonderfully tender and fluffy without scorching. Then, add the butter and shredded cheddar cheese to the warm grits. Stir vigorously until the butter is completely melted and the cheese is fully incorporated, resulting in a smooth, creamy, and undeniably cheesy consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper to your liking.
Cooking the Flavorful Cajun Shrimp and Bacon
- While the grits are resting, turn your attention to the shrimp. In a medium bowl, thoroughly season the raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp with the Cajun seasoning. Ensure each shrimp is evenly coated to maximize flavor; don’t be shy with the seasoning! Set them aside briefly to allow the seasoning to meld.
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon strips over medium heat until they are perfectly crispy and their fat has rendered into the pan. This rendered bacon fat is crucial for imparting a rich, smoky flavor to the shrimp. Once crispy, remove the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. Once cooled slightly, chop the bacon into small, savory pieces; these will be used for both texture within the dish and as a delicious garnish.
- Leave about 1-2 tablespoons of the flavorful bacon grease in the skillet (drain any excess if there’s too much). Add the minced garlic to the hot grease and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to burn it. Immediately add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Toss and cook the shrimp for only 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. It’s vital not to overcook shrimp, as they can quickly become tough and rubbery. As soon as they are cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat to stop the cooking process.
- To serve this exquisite Southern dish, spoon a generous portion of the hot, cheesy grits onto individual serving plates. Arrange the perfectly cooked Cajun shrimp over the grits, ensuring a good distribution.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Shrimp and Grits
Here are some common questions and expert advice to ensure your Cheesy Cajun Shrimp and Grits turn out perfectly every time, along with tips for storage and reheating:
Store leftovers in an airtight container kept in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh and delicious for 4-5 days. For best quality, consider storing the shrimp and grits separately if possible, though combining them is also fine. The grits tend to stiffen up in the fridge, but can be easily revived.
Reheating shrimp and grits without drying them out is easy. You can reheat them in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat them gently in a skillet over low heat on the stovetop. For optimal creaminess, we highly recommend adding a small splash of chicken stock or milk (about 1-2 tablespoons per serving) to the grits when reheating, stirring often to restore their smooth, creamy texture and prevent them from becoming clumpy. This also helps keep the shrimp tender.
Yes, you can prepare the grits ahead of time. Cook them as directed, then let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When ready to serve, reheat them gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or chicken broth, stirring constantly until creamy again. The shrimp are best cooked fresh just before serving, as reheating cooked shrimp can sometimes make them tough.
Large or jumbo raw shrimp (typically labeled 21/25 count per pound) are ideal for this recipe. Their size ensures they remain juicy and don’t get lost in the creamy grits. Always opt for peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience and the best eating experience. If using frozen, make sure they are completely thawed and patted dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning sticks and they cook evenly.
The spice level of this dish comes primarily from the Cajun seasoning blend. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with a smaller amount of Cajun seasoning (e.g., ½ tablespoon) and taste as you go, adjusting to your preference. For those who love heat, feel free to add a bit more Cajun seasoning, a pinch of cayenne pepper directly to the shrimp, or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce (like Tabasco or Crystal) directly to the dish when serving.
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is a classic choice for its robust flavor and excellent melt, you can certainly experiment with other cheeses. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a smoked Gouda can add a delicious twist. For an extra creamy touch, a blend of cheddar with a touch of cream cheese or mascarpone can create an even more decadent texture.
Elevate Your Meal: Serving Suggestions for Shrimp and Grits
While Cheesy Cajun Shrimp and Grits is a complete and satisfying meal on its own, a few simple additions can truly enhance the experience and make it feel like a grand Southern feast. For a beautiful presentation and an extra burst of fresh flavor, generously sprinkle additional chopped crispy bacon bits and finely sliced green onions over the top of each serving. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can also brighten the flavors beautifully, cutting through the richness with a zesty tang.
To complement the richness of the dish, consider serving it alongside classic Southern sides. Fluffy homemade biscuits, warm cornbread, or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would be perfect additions. If you’re looking for more traditional accompaniments, braised collard greens, sautéed okra, or a fresh tomato salad would also pair wonderfully. For beverages, iced tea (sweet or unsweetened) is a quintessential Southern choice, or a crisp white wine (like a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio) can also make a delightful pairing.
Discover More Southern-Inspired Recipes
If you loved this comforting Cheesy Cajun Shrimp and Grits recipe, you’re sure to enjoy exploring more of our delicious Southern and seafood-inspired dishes. Expand your culinary repertoire and bring more fantastic flavors to your kitchen with these related recipes:
- Classic Southern Shrimp Boil
- Delicious Homemade Salmon Croquettes
- Flavorful and Easy Blackened Shrimp
- Hearty and Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Quick Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp
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Cheesy Cajun Shrimp and Grits
IMPORTANT – Don’t forget to check out the detailed Frequently Asked Questions and Expert Tips section within the blog post for additional helpful advice!
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Ingredients
- 1 pound raw large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 5 strips bacon cut in half
- 1 Tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 cup 5 minute grits
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 3 Tablespoons butter
- 1 Tablespoon Cajun spice we used Slap Ya Mama
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ⅓ cup sliced green onion optional as garnish
Things You’ll Need
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Medium Saucepan
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Large Skillet
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Cutting Board
Before You Begin & Expert Tips
- To prepare the grits, simply follow the instructions on the back of the grits package, but for enhanced flavor, replace the water with chicken broth and add the garlic salt and pepper. We’re using 5-minute grits for convenience, though you can substitute with your preferred type, such as old-fashioned or stone-ground grits, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
- We recommend using large raw shrimp that have been peeled and deveined. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning, which helps the Cajun spice adhere properly. For a flavor twist, you can opt for blackened shrimp instead.
- Leftover shrimp and grits can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days.
- To reheat, gently warm in the microwave in 30-second intervals or in a skillet over low heat on the stovetop. Adding a small splash of chicken stock or milk when reheating will help restore the grits’ creamy texture. Stir often until thoroughly warmed through.
- Don’t discard the bacon grease! It’s a key ingredient that adds significant depth and smoky flavor to your shrimp.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to match your preferred spice level. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can brighten all the flavors beautifully.
Instructions
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Combine chicken broth, milk, garlic salt, and pepper in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently (watch closely as the milk can cause the mixture to rise). Add grits and stir into the boiling liquid. Reduce heat to medium and stir occasionally for approximately 5 minutes.
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Before all liquid is absorbed, cover and remove from heat; let grits cook for about 3 minutes. Stir in butter and shredded cheddar until cheese is melted and grits are creamy.
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Season shrimp generously with Cajun seasoning and set aside.
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In a large skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Remove to paper towels to drain, then chop into small pieces. Reserve 1-2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.
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Add minced garlic to the bacon grease and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add seasoned shrimp; toss and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove from heat immediately.
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Serve the flavorful Cajun shrimp over the creamy cheesy grits. Garnish with chopped bacon and sliced green onions, if desired.
Nutrition Information
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.