Creamy Cajun Shrimp & Grits Skillet

If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dinner that delivers southern charm with a creamy twist, look no further than this Creamy Cajun Shrimp & Grits Skillet. It’s an easy one-pan meal that combines tender shrimp seasoned with bold Cajun spices, creamy stone-ground grits, and a medley of sautéed veggies. This dish strikes the perfect balance between rich, spicy, and hearty, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend treat. Plus, it’s packed with ingredients that come together effortlessly, giving you a restaurant-worthy meal without the fuss.

Top Reasons to Make Creamy Cajun Shrimp & Grits Skillet

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, this skillet meal is perfect for those who want big flavor without spending hours in the kitchen.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required since everything cooks in a single skillet.
• Comfort Food with a Kick: The Cajun seasoning brings a smoky, spicy depth that pairs beautifully with creamy, cheesy grits.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or swap out the cheese to make it your own.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special weekend meal, this dish fits the bill.

Ingredient Checklist

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups chicken broth (use a broth with good flavor for best results)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color works well)
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes, drained
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Appliances & Accessories

• Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking the shrimp, veggies, and grits together.
• Medium saucepan – for cooking the grits if you prefer to prepare them separately.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – to stir and combine ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
• Knife and cutting board – for prepping veggies and shrimp.

Creamy Cajun Shrimp & Grits Skillet — Do This Next

Step 1: Prepare the Grits

In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a gentle boil. Slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits, reduce heat to low, and simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until thickened and tender (about 20-25 minutes). Once cooked, stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Keep warm while you prepare the shrimp and vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with the Cajun seasoning until evenly coated. Push the sautéed vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the butter. Once melted, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until shrimp are opaque and cooked through.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Reduce heat to low and add the creamy grits to the skillet, gently folding everything together until well combined and heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra Cajun seasoning if desired.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle sliced green onions over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve immediately, scooping generous portions of shrimp and grits onto plates or bowls.

Season-by-Season Upgrades

• Spring: Add fresh asparagus tips or peas for a pop of green and sweetness.
• Summer: Incorporate fresh corn kernels or diced zucchini for extra summer flavor.
• Fall: Stir in sautéed mushrooms or use smoked paprika in the Cajun seasoning for a deeper flavor.
• Winter: Swap bell peppers for diced roasted red peppers and add a dash of cayenne for warmth.

What Not to Do

• Don’t overcook the shrimp – they cook quickly and will become rubbery if left on heat too long.
• Avoid skipping the cheese in the grits; it’s key to achieving the creamy, rich texture.
• Don’t forget to drain the diced tomatoes well to prevent watery grits.
• Refrain from using instant grits if you want authentic texture and flavor – stone-ground grits make all the difference.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can prepare the grits a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently with a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen them up. Shrimp and veggies are best cooked fresh, but you can dice the onion, bell pepper, and garlic ahead of time to save prep work. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat beautifully in a skillet or microwave.

Creamy Cajun Shrimp & Grits Skillet FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar cheese adds a nice sharpness and creaminess, you can substitute with Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a bit of heat, or even a mild mozzarella for a gooey texture.

What if I don’t have stone-ground grits?

If stone-ground grits aren’t available, you can use regular grits, but keep in mind the texture will be less creamy and a bit finer. Instant grits are not recommended as they won’t achieve the same depth of flavor or texture.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the heavy cream for canned coconut milk or a creamy non-dairy milk, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The dish will still be creamy and flavorful, just with a slightly different profile.

Can I make this recipe spicier?

Definitely! Increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce while cooking the shrimp. Just be mindful of your heat tolerance, as the dish already has a nice kick.

Because You Liked This

• Creamy Cajun Shrimp Linguine – A pasta dish with all the bold Cajun flavors you love, paired with a luscious cream sauce.
• Cajun Shrimp And Sausage Rice Skillet – Another one-pan wonder packed with protein and spices for a quick weeknight meal.

In Closing

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp & Grits Skillet is the perfect blend of Southern comfort and bold, spicy flavor. The creamy grits pair beautifully with the seasoned shrimp and fresh veggies, creating a dish that’s satisfying and memorable. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is approachable and sure to impress. Serve it up for dinner tonight and enjoy a taste of the South right from your own kitchen.

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