When it comes to Southern comfort food, few dishes embody warmth, spice, and indulgence quite like Cajun Butter Shrimp & Corn Grits. This classic meal captures the essence of Louisiana cuisine—flavorful, comforting, and unapologetically rich.
Picture this: plump shrimp coated in a buttery Cajun sauce, resting atop a bed of smooth, cheesy corn grits. Every bite offers the perfect harmony of spice and creaminess, making it an unforgettable meal that’s both luxurious and easy enough for a weeknight dinner.
In this detailed guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know—from the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to expert tips, variations, and serving ideas—so you can master this Southern favorite like a seasoned chef.
What is Cajun Butter Shrimp & Corn Grits?
Cajun Butter Shrimp & Corn Grits is a Southern-inspired dish rooted in Louisiana’s Cajun cuisine. It combines two beloved components: buttery Cajun-spiced shrimp and creamy grits made from ground corn.
The shrimp are cooked in a rich sauce made with butter, garlic, and Cajun spices—smoky, spicy, and just a little tangy from fresh lemon juice. The grits, on the other hand, serve as the perfect creamy base to balance the spice of the shrimp, often made with cheese, milk, and butter for extra richness.
This dish offers an incredible balance of textures and flavors—the spiciness of Cajun butter meets the mild, comforting taste of corn grits, creating a meal that’s both rustic and elegant.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavor: Every bite bursts with smoky, buttery, and garlicky goodness.
- Comforting and Creamy: The grits add a luxurious, velvety texture that complements the shrimp beautifully.
- Simple to Prepare: You don’t need to be an expert chef—just follow the steps, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level, swap the cheese, or use alternative proteins.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy dinner, a weekend brunch, or a family gathering, it fits beautifully.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s look at everything required to create this soul-satisfying Cajun Butter Shrimp & Corn Grits recipe.
For the Shrimp
- 500 g large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
- 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Corn Grits
- 1 cup stone-ground corn grits
- 4 cups water (or chicken broth for added flavor)
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Lemon wedges
- Chopped green onions or parsley
Tip: Always use fresh shrimp when possible for the best texture and flavor. If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw and pat them dry before seasoning.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Grits Base
Start by bringing water (or chicken broth) and milk to a gentle boil in a medium saucepan. Slowly whisk in the corn grits to avoid lumps.
Once added, reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15–20 minutes. The grits will thicken as they cook and develop a creamy texture. Keep the heat low and patience high—this slow cooking gives you that perfect smoothness.
Step 2: Enrich the Grits
When the grits reach a thick, creamy consistency, stir in the butter and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper.
Taste as you go—the grits should be rich but balanced, never too salty. Keep them warm on the lowest heat setting while you prepare the shrimp.
Step 3: Season the Shrimp
In a large bowl, combine shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to ensure every shrimp is evenly coated with the bold spices.
Step 4: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil and butter. Once the butter melts and begins to bubble, add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but don’t let it brown.
Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until pink and slightly curled. Avoid overcooking—they should remain tender and juicy.
Step 5: Create the Cajun Butter Sauce
Once the shrimp are cooked, lower the heat. Add lemon juice and swirl the pan gently, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the shrimp evenly. The butter and spices will emulsify into a glossy, flavorful sauce.
Sprinkle chopped parsley over the shrimp for freshness and color.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
Spoon generous servings of creamy grits into individual bowls. Arrange the Cajun butter shrimp on top, and drizzle any leftover sauce from the pan over the shrimp.
Garnish with extra parsley or green onions, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright finish.
Expert Tips for the Best Cajun Butter Shrimp & Corn Grits
- Use Stone-Ground Grits: They take longer to cook but provide a better texture and deeper flavor than instant varieties.
- Balance the Seasoning: Cajun spices can vary in saltiness. Always taste before adding extra salt.
- Control the Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne to match your heat preference.
- Avoid Overcooking Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly—remove them as soon as they turn pink.
- For Extra Creaminess: Add a splash of heavy cream to the grits just before serving.
Flavor Variations
Here are some creative ways to modify the Cajun Butter Shrimp & Corn Grits recipe:
- Smoky Twist: Add crumbled turkey bacon for extra smokiness.
- Herb-Infused: Stir in thyme or chives into the grits for a more aromatic base.
- Cheese Lovers’ Version: Try a mix of sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gouda.
- Seafood Mix: Combine shrimp with scallops or crab for a luxurious seafood medley.
- Vegan Version: Replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or tofu, use vegan butter and plant-based milk.
Serving Suggestions
Cajun Butter Shrimp & Corn Grits shines as a main course, but you can pair it with:
- Sides: Garlic-roasted vegetables, sautéed spinach, or a light green salad.
- Beverages: Sweet tea, lemonade, or a chilled sparkling drink.
- Occasions: Ideal for cozy dinners, weekend brunches, or even festive gatherings when you want to impress guests.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Warm the grits over low heat with a splash of milk or water to restore creaminess. Reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet with a bit of butter to avoid overcooking.
- Freezing: Grits can be frozen for up to one month, but shrimp are best enjoyed fresh.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding Grits Too Quickly: Always whisk slowly to prevent lumps.
- Using High Heat: Cooking grits or shrimp over high heat can ruin the texture.
- Skipping the Butter: The richness of the butter ties the entire dish together—don’t skimp!
- Over-seasoning: Cajun seasoning already contains salt, so adjust accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Cajun Butter Shrimp & Corn Grits is more than just a recipe—it’s an experience. The combination of spiced shrimp and creamy grits reflects the heart of Southern cuisine, where every ingredient works in harmony.
Whether you’re cooking for family, impressing guests, or simply craving something rich and satisfying, this dish will never disappoint. With its bold flavor, comforting texture, and easy preparation, it’s bound to become a repeat favorite at your dinner table.
Cajun Butter Shrimp & Corn Grits Recipe
Description
This Cajun Butter Shrimp & Corn Grits Recipe brings the warmth of Southern cuisine straight to your kitchen. Tender, juicy shrimp are sautéed in a spiced Cajun butter sauce and served over a bed of creamy, cheesy corn grits. Perfect for dinner or brunch, this flavorful dish combines the smokiness of Cajun seasoning with the rich comfort of grits for a meal that’s indulgent yet easy to prepare.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
For the Corn Grits
For Serving
Instructions
Prepare the Grits Base
- In a medium saucepan, bring water (or chicken broth) and milk to a gentle boil. Slowly whisk in the corn grits to avoid lumps. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 15–20 minutes until the grits are thick and creamy.
Enrich the Grits
- Once the grits are cooked, stir in butter, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Keep warm while preparing the shrimp.
Season the Shrimp
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated with spices.
Cook the Shrimp
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Make the Cajun Butter Sauce
- Once the shrimp are cooked, reduce heat to low. Add lemon juice and swirl the pan to create a smooth, buttery sauce. Let the shrimp absorb the flavor for 1–2 minutes. Sprinkle chopped parsley before turning off the heat.
Assemble the Dish
- Spoon the warm, creamy grits into serving bowls. Top with Cajun butter shrimp and drizzle the extra pan sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Note
Adjusting spice: For a milder version, reduce or skip the cayenne pepper.
Make it creamier: Replace half of the water with heavy cream for extra rich grits.
Storage: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat grits with a splash of milk or water.
Shrimp alternative: You can substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a similar Cajun flavor.
