Go Back
Homemade Creamy Cajun Shrimp & Grits Skillet photo
Print Recipe Save it for later

Creamy Cajun Shrimp & Grits Skillet

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp & Grits Skillet is a quick, flavorful one-pan meal that combines spicy shrimp with cheesy, creamy grits for a comforting Southern dinner.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Keyword: Cajun, Comfort Food, Easy, Grits, One-Pan, Quick, Shrimp
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 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
  • 0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 1 bell pepper diced (any color works well)
  • 0.5 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)

Instructions

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Medium Saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Notes

  • Do not overcook the shrimp to avoid rubbery texture.
  • Drain diced tomatoes well to prevent watery grits.
  • Prepare grits a day ahead for easy meal prep and reheat gently.
  • Customize with different cheeses or add seasonal veggies for variety.